Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

‘Village Rockstars 2’ earns spot in Busan International Film Festival

Director Rima Das looks forward to the world premiere of her, building on the success of her acclaimed work

‘Village Rockstars 2’ earns spot in Busan International Film Festival
The poster of Village Rockstars 2 (left) and Rima Das (Photo: Robin Marchant/Getty Images)
Eastern Eye
By Eastern EyeAug 27, 2024

VILLAGE ROCKSTARS 2, the latest film from director Rima Das, has been shortlisted for the Kim Jiseok Award at the 2024 Busan International Film Festival (BIFF).

This movie is a sequel to the critically acclaimed Village Rockstars, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2017 and went on to win a National Award. It was also India's official submission for the 2019 Academy Awards.

Out of eight films selected for the Jiseok Competition section at the 29th BIFF, Village Rockstars 2 is the only Indian entry, as announced in a press release.

Das, who was recently invited to join the director's branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, shared her anticipation for the world premiere of her film at Busan.

"Village Rockstars holds a very special place for me due to the recognition it gained," Das stated. "I'm excited to see how Village Rockstars 2 will be received at Busan, and I hope it resonates with audiences just as much as the first."

The 29th edition of the Busan International Film Festival is set to begin on October 2.

The first Village Rockstars followed the story of a 10-year-old girl called Dhunu who befriends a group of boys and dreams of becoming a rock star.

"While it's a sequel, this film stands on its own, delving into Dhunu's relationship with her mother, mother nature, and music. I dedicate this film to all the young people with talent and dreams but limited resources to achieve them. I am hopeful that just as audiences embraced Village Rockstars, they will embrace this film as well," she added.

The Kim Jiseok Award, established in 2017, commemorates the late Kim Jiseok, who dedicated his life to discovering and supporting the growth of Asian cinema. It is given to the two best films that reflect the contemporary standing of Asian cinema.

Last year, Sri Lankan filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage's Paradise and Bride Kidnapping by Kyrgyz director Mirlan Abdykalykov won the Kim Jiseok Award last year.

BIFF will come to a close on October 11. (PTI)

biff - kim jiseok award - rima das - village rockstars

Related News

Rafale-jet-Getty
Asia

India signs deal with France for 26 Rafale fighter jets

'Doctor Who' season finale to screen in UK cinemas as iPlayer early release scrapped
TV

'Doctor Who' season finale to screen in UK cinemas as iPlayer early release scrapped

'Jai Mata Ji– Let’s Rock'
Entertainment

Gujarati film 'Jai Mata Ji– Let’s Rock' about a 'thug life' granny to premiere at Leicester Indian Film Festival

Philip Pullman
Literature

Philip Pullman reveals 'The Rose Field' as the final chapter in 'The Book of Dust'

More For You

Dua Lipa

Dua Lipa turns heads in a sheer black dress at the 50th Chaplin Award Gala in New York

Getty Images

Dua Lipa goes braless in a sheer dress at Chaplin Gala after romantic holiday with fiancé Callum Turner

Dua Lipa turned heads at the 50th Chaplin Award Gala in New York, stepping out in a daring sheer dress that left little to the imagination. The singer confidently flaunted her figure in the see-through ensemble, going braless while her stylish thong peeked through the delicate fabric.

Her outfit was far from the only standout detail. A bold gold necklace and matching chunky earrings added a touch of glamour, while her sleek, straight hair and striking red lipstick kept the look polished. She carried a small clutch that perfectly matched the dress, completing the chic yet edgy vibe.

Keep ReadingShow less
Shah Rukh Khan Outprices Salman Khan in Concert Fees, Say Aussie Organisers

These insights from Australian event organisers reflect the business side of Bollywood fame

Getty

Shah Rukh Khan charges more than Salman Khan for concerts, says Australian event organisers

Bollywood actors have long been known to earn substantial fees for live performances and international events, particularly those aimed at the Indian diaspora. According to Australian event organisers Pace D and Bikram Singh Randhawa, some of the industry's biggest stars not only draw larger crowds abroad but also command higher fees than their contemporaries.

Speaking to YouTuber Siddharth Kannan, the organisers shed light on the dynamics of Bollywood celebrities performing in Australia. When asked which star between Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan charges more for a live show in the country, they stated that Shah Rukh Khan is the higher-paid of the two. “The moment he spreads his arms, half the country’s population will just fall over,” they said, referring to Shah Rukh’s signature pose and immense popularity, especially among women. The organisers noted that the actor enjoys a strong female fan base in Australia, which significantly adds to his market value for such events.

Keep ReadingShow less
Sofia Coppola photographs Ananya Panday and sister Rysa during their dreamy Italian getaway

An older image of Ananya Panday, who continues to make headlines on and off the screen

Instagram/AnanyaPanday

Sofia Coppola photographs Ananya Panday and sister Rysa during their dreamy Italian getaway

Ananya Panday’s latest outing in Italy is turning heads, but for reasons beyond the red carpet. The young Bollywood star has become the first Indian face of Chanel, chosen to represent the luxury fashion house at its Cruise 2025/2026 showcase in Lake Como, Italy.

The event, known for its stunning backdrops and fashion-forward guest lists, is being directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sofia Coppola, who also turned photographer for Ananya and her sister Rysa.

Keep ReadingShow less
Milton Jones Cancels UK Tour After Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

Milton Jones known for his appearances on Mock the Week, is taking time off for treatment and recovery.

Instagram

Comedian Milton Jones diagnosed with prostate cancer, cancels summer UK tour dates

British comedian Milton Jones has announced he’s taking a break from his live tour to focus on treatment for prostate cancer. Known for his sharp one-liners and regular appearances on Mock The Week, the 60-year-old shared the news on Instagram, revealing he will undergo surgery and needs time to recover.

Jones called the decision to cancel several summer shows “tough,” but explained it was necessary for his health. He was quick to reassure fans that his condition is treatable and that he plans to return to the stage once he’s well enough.

Keep ReadingShow less
Kareena Kapoor Dubai meet with Pakistani designer Faraz Manan

Kareena Kapoor criticised for Dubai meet with Pakistani designer Faraz Manan after Pahalgam attack

Instagram Screengrab

Kareena Kapoor faces backlash over Dubai meet with Pakistani designer days after Kashmir terror attack

Kareena Kapoor Khan has landed in a social media storm after photos surfaced of her meeting Pakistani designer Faraz Manan in Dubai just days after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians in Kashmir.

The attack, carried out by The Resistance Front, a group linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, left the nation in grief. Celebrities across India expressed condolences, including Kareena, who posted a message mourning the lives lost: “Beyond heartbroken for the victims and their families.”

Keep ReadingShow less
© Copyright 2025 Garavi Gujarat Publications Ltd & Asian Media Group USA Inc