Mumbai (Commonwealth Union)_ The Kannada short film “Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know”, directed by Chidananda S. Naik, has made a significant mark in the global film industry by qualifying for the Oscars 2025 in the Live Action Short Film category. This achievement follows a remarkable journey that includes winning the prestigious La Cinef Selection at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year. Produced by the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), the film has already attracted widespread acclaim for its compelling cinematic storytelling and unique narrative.
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“Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know” follows a gripping tale set against the backdrop of Indian folk stories. Filmed entirely at night, the 16-minute short immerses viewers in the mystique of the Indian landscape, blending cultural themes with a sense of suspense and humor. The story centers on an elderly woman in a rural village who steals the community’s rooster, inadvertently causing the sun to cease shining. The ensuing chaos leads the village to invoke an ancient prediction, prompting the woman’s family to embark on a mission to return the rooster and restore harmony in their world.
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The film’s distinctive approach to storytelling caught the attention of the La Cinef Jury at the Cannes Film Festival, who awarded it the top honor. The jury praised the film for its illumination from the depths of the night, recognizing its brilliant use of humor and sharp direction. “Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know” was lauded for its ability to create an emotionally resonant and visually stunning experience, with the jury commenting, “An illumination that, from the depths of the night, shines with humor and a keen sense of direction.” Furthermore, director Chidananda S. Naik reflected in an interview on his vision for the film. He explained that his goal was to do more than just tell a story. He aimed to create an immersive experience that would transport audiences into the heart of Indian folklore. Naik said, “We wanted the viewers not just to hear the story, but to live it,” emphasizing the depth of connection he hoped to create with global audiences.
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“Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know” also received the Best Indian Competition Award at the Bengaluru International Short Film Festival in August, further solidifying its place on the international stage. With the film now eligible for Oscar qualification, it will compete against some of the best short films worldwide at the 97th Academy Awards ceremony in March 2025. Additionally, the film’s technical team, including cinematographer Suraj Thakur, editor Manoj V, and sound designer Abhishek Kadam, contributed significantly to its atmospheric quality, helping to bring Naik’s vision to life. As “Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know” continues to gain recognition, it stands as a testament to the talent emerging from Indian cinema and the power of cinematic storytelling to transcend cultural boundaries.
