#IFFIWood, 25 November 2024 — The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) continues to celebrate the best of global cinema, showcasing a diverse array of films that span genres and continents. Among the highlights of this year’s festival are two films that stand out for their powerful storytelling and emotional depth: The Rooster and Manjummel Boys.
‘The Rooster’: A Cinematic Journey Into Grief, Loss, and Hope
The Rooster, an Australian drama directed by Mark Leonard Winter, had its special focus screening at IFFI 2024 as part of the Australian Cinema spotlight. The film’s team, including director Mark Leonard Winter, lead actor Hugo Weaving, and producers Geraldine Hakewil and MahVeen Shahraki, spoke about the creative journey behind the film and the emotions it explores.
The Rooster follows the story of Dan, a young police officer grappling with the recent death of his best friend, Steve. Seeking solace in the woods, he meets a reclusive hermit who may hold the key to understanding Steve’s mysterious death. The film delves deeply into themes of grief, the search for meaning, and the power of human connection, all wrapped in a minimalist yet impactful narrative.
Director Mark Leonard Winter, making his feature film debut, reflected on the personal nature of the project. “It was a very personal film, made in our garage with a small, tight-knit team,” he shared. “To now present it at such a prestigious festival in India is an honor.”
Lead actor Hugo Weaving, known for his roles in The Matrix and The Lord of the Rings, spoke about the depth of the character he portrayed. “Playing the role was both challenging and rewarding,” he said, emphasizing how the film’s universal themes of vulnerability and emotional struggle resonated deeply with him.
Producer Geraldine Hakewil also highlighted the significance of the film’s journey, noting the evolution of Winter from actor to director. “Mark exceeded our expectations with his work on the script and direction. It’s been a privilege to be a part of this journey,” she said.
A key element of The Rooster‘s immersive experience is its sound design. Winter explained that the film’s score is built around the human voice, using primal sounds and ethereal music to evoke a deep emotional connection. “We wanted the score to reflect the human experience — from raw emotion to divine music. The voice has a unique power, and it was essential to capture that raw energy,” he noted.
‘Manjummel Boys’: A True Tale of Friendship, Bravery, and Survival
In contrast to the reflective, intimate drama of The Rooster, Manjummel Boys brings a thrilling real-life rescue story to the screen. The Malayalam film, directed by Shri Chidambaram, was featured in the Indian Panorama section of IFFI 2024, captivating audiences with its heart-pounding narrative and the power of friendship.
Based on the true story of an 11-member team from the village of Manjummel in Kerala, Manjummel Boys recounts the heroic rescue of a friend who fell into a pit at the Guna Caves in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu. When all hope seemed lost, Siju David, one of the group members, risked everything to save his friend. The story is an inspiring tribute to selflessness, courage, and the bond of friendship.
Director Chidambaram shared his thoughts on the challenges of recreating the famous Guna Cave, a task complicated by the fact that filming on location wasn’t feasible. The team painstakingly recreated the cave in a Kochi warehouse, focusing on accuracy and detail. “The true protagonist of the film is the cave,” Chidambaram remarked. “I only wish I could have conveyed the cave’s scent to the screen,” he added, highlighting the immersive experience the film aimed to deliver.
Chidambaram also discussed the changing landscape of the Malayalam film industry, noting how the rise of OTT platforms has opened up new avenues for telling such compelling stories. “A decade ago, the industry wasn’t ready for a film like this, but today, things are different,” he said.
‘The Rooster’ and ‘Manjummel Boys’ Shine at IFFI 2024: A Deep Dive into Grief, Bravery, and the Human Spirit
Both The Rooster and Manjummel Boys reflect the evolving nature of cinema, where personal, intimate storytelling meets universal themes, and true-life events can find a wider audience. As part of IFFI 2024, these films not only entertained but also sparked conversations about grief, courage, and the human spirit.
With such diverse films gracing the screen, IFFI 2024 continues to demonstrate the power of cinema to connect audiences with stories that transcend cultural boundaries.