The most impressive films at PIFF

The most impressive films at PIFF:

One of the most celebrated film carnivals of the country, Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) ended on a high note recently. While many international films like Sunny, Given In Exchange and Color Water bagged awards for Best Film, Best Director and Best Cinematography respectively; our very own Marathi films also made their presence felt.

Lets have a look at the films that walked away with various awards at the film festival.

Best Film: Elizabeth Ekadashi and Killa

There were not one but two strong contenders that walked away with the highest ranked award at the event. The Government of Maharashtra ‘Sant Tukaram’ Best International Marathi Film award was shared by films, Elizabeth Ekadashi and Killa (The Fort).

Elizabeth Ekadashi, directed by Paresh Mokashi tells the story of two young siblings who try their best to help their mother to run their house post their father’s death. The film received warm response from both audience and critics for the apt presentation of the emotions of children.

Whereas, Killa portrays a difficult period in the life of young Chinu. He has a hard time settling into his new home in the countryside after his mother decides to relocate from the big city following his father's death.

Interestingly, both the films that have won the best Film award, represent topics that convey children's sentiments.

Best Director: Bhaurao Karhade (Khwada):

Akhil Bhartiya Marathi Chitrapat Maha Mandal Best Marathi Film Director award was given to Bhaurao Karhade, the director of the film ‘Khwada’ (Obstacle). The film is a story about shepherds who suffer from land acquisition by the forest department and how their dreams of a settlement get shattered, lending them to migrate permanently.
The movie is a debut feature film for the director who earlier has won many national and international awards for his short films like ‘Vanchit’ (Deprived) and ‘Talap’ (Addiction).

Best Actor: Usha Naik

For her splendid performance in ‘Ek Hazarachi Note’ (1000 Rupee Note), actress Usha Naik took home the Best Actor award on the occasion. Usha’s performance as an old woman, who wishes to buy new clothes for herself and her neighbour but falls prey to the bad turn of events that destroys her dreams, got a huge applaud.

Audience Award for Best Marathi Competition
Film: Salaam

Salaam, film directed by Kiran Yadnopavit, won PIFF-2015 Audience Award for Best Marathi Competition Film. The film that talks about the relation between a father and his son; saw powerful performances by actors Girish Kulkarni and Vivek Chabukswar. The film which was released last year, did not perform as expected on the box office but managed to bag the award as it pleased the audience at the festival with its flawless screenplay.