Indian Cinema Shines: Films Set for Screening at Cannes 2025

The 78th Cannes Film Festival is underway in the French Riviera, showcasing a vibrant lineup of Indian cinema, highlighting the country’s growing global influence. Here are the five Indian films set to be screened, each representing diverse storytelling and cinematic excellence.

1. Homebound (Un Certain Regard):
   
   Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan (Masaan), this film features Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. Backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and executive-produced by Martin Scorsese, Homebound explores the struggles of two friends from a North Indian village chasing a police job, testing their bond amid desperation. Its poignant social commentary makes it stand out in the Un Certain Regard section, and it is known for its innovative narratives.
2. Aranyer Din Ratri (Cannes Classics):
   
   Satyajit Ray’s 1970 classic, starring Sharmila Tagore and Soumitra Chatterjee, will be screened in a 4K restored version. Based on Sunil Gangopadhyay’s novel, this Bengali adventure-drama follows four friends escaping city life, presented by Wes Anderson and Film Heritage Foundation’s Shivendra Singh Dungarpur. The restoration, using original negatives, celebrates India’s cinematic heritage.
3. Tanvi The Great (Marché du Film):
   
   Anupam Kher’s directorial debut features a stellar cast, including Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, and Karan Tacker. This emotional drama, set for its world premiere at the Cannes Film Market, promises a heartfelt narrative, blending Indian storytelling with universal appeal and drawing significant attention for its global potential.
4. Charak (Screening Section Unspecified):
   
   Directed by Sheiladitya Moulik and produced by Sudipto Sen, Charak delves into Bengal’s Charak Puja ritual, exploring themes of blind faith, child sacrifice, and occult practices. Its bold social commentary on faith versus humanity positions it as a potential breakout at Cannes.
5. A Doll Made Up of Clay (La Cinef):
   
   This 23-minute student short, directed by Ethiopian SRFTI student Kokob Gebrehaweria Tesfay, tells the story of a Nigerian footballer in Kolkata facing identity and financial struggles post-injury. Selected for the La Cinef section, it highlights emerging talent from Indian film schools.

These films, spanning restored classics to fresh narratives, underscore India’s cinematic diversity at Cannes 2025.