Anupam Kher on ‘Tanvi the Great’ premiere at Cannes: ‘It will be interesting to see the journey of the film’

Anupam Kher has stepped back into the director’s chair after 23 long years. His upcoming directorial Tanvi the Great will make its grand debut at one of the most prestigious film festivals – Cannes.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Kher talked about taking the film, a story that he feels is rooted in Indian culture, to the global stage. “I did direct another film Om Jai Jagdish 23 years back, but that was not my story. After that, I didn’t direct any film. I wanted it to come from within me, an Indian film for international viewing,” he said.

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Kher regards the project as a “universal film”, and is determined to present it to a diverse audience. He is sparing no expense, even flying the actors out to France for the big premiere. “It’s a huge kharcha (cost),” he admits, “But I want to put the film on a pedestal. Warna mujhe kya zaroorat hai New York jaane ki? (Otherwise, why do I need to go to New York?) I am not some Indian actor who also works in English films.”

Kher always knew Tanvi the Great was meant for a theatrical release and not an OTT debut. “You will not ask this question about whether the film will be released in theatres or OTT to Martin Scorcese! I am not comparing myself to these greats, but when you are making the film with passion, uska jo marzi hashr ho (whatever it may be), you make it for the cinemas.”

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Headed for international release, with screenings in London, New York, and Los Angeles, Kher was very selective on who he wanted to bring on board the ambitious project. He signed on internationally recognised talents, like composer M. M. Keeravani, who won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for Naatu Naatu from RRR, and sound designer Resul Pookutty, who won the Academy Award for Best Sound Mixing for Slumdog Millionaire.

“People think Indian films are musical just because we burst into songs. No that’s not the case. It will be interesting to see the journey of the film from Cannes, and start the PR campaign with a bang,” Kher commented.

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