What's Happening?
Indian filmmakers Shoojit Sircar and Vikramaditya Motwane have collaborated to present 'Thursday Special,' a short film by Varun Tandon. The film, which explores themes of love, companionship, and the passage
of time, has gained international recognition, winning the Most Poetic Film Award at Serbia's Küstendorf Film Festival 2025. 'Thursday Special' stars Anubha Fatehpuria and Ramakanth Dayama as an elderly couple whose relationship is centered around their shared passion for food and a weekly tradition. The film has been praised for its simplicity and heartfelt storytelling, drawing comparisons to Sircar's own work. It has won over 25 awards globally, including Best Narrative Short at the New York Indian Film Festival.
Why It's Important?
The success of 'Thursday Special' highlights the global appeal of intimate storytelling that focuses on universal themes such as love and companionship. The film's recognition at international festivals underscores the growing influence of Indian cinema on the global stage. For filmmakers like Tandon, the accolades affirm the value of exploring nuanced narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. The involvement of renowned directors like Sircar and Motwane also brings attention to the potential of short films as a powerful medium for storytelling, encouraging more filmmakers to explore this format.
What's Next?
With its release scheduled for January 29 on the Humans of Cinema YouTube channel, 'Thursday Special' is poised to reach a wider audience. The film's success may lead to further collaborations between Indian filmmakers and international platforms, expanding the reach of Indian cinema. For Tandon, the film's acclaim could open doors to new projects and opportunities to explore different storytelling formats. The film's themes may also inspire discussions on the portrayal of aging and relationships in cinema.
