Malayalam film Akashathinte Niram in the Oscar list

Dr Biju's Akashathinte Niram (Colour of Sky) has found its place in the first list for the Oscars 2013.

Starring Indrajith, Nedumudi Venu, Amala Paul and Prithviraj, the film has been shown at several prestigious international film festivals already.

In an exclusive interview, Dr Biju talks about the chances of his film at the Oscars, the issues at the recently concluded IFFK and more. Excerpts:

What is the current status of the film's entry for the Oscars?

It can be called the first list, which is based on films that have been released in the US and have been submitted for consideration for the Academy awards. The list this year has 282 films.

Was Akashathinte Niram released in the US?

Yes. But it was not released widely and we are waiting to release it at more stations after the announcement of the Oscar list.

What are the chances you think the film has to make it to the final list?

The members of the Academy will now watch the films on the list and vote their preferences. Based on that, the final list will be published. We are hoping for the best.

Which are the major film festivals where Akashathinte Niram was shown?

The premiere was at the Shanghai festival, where it was the first Malayalam film in the competition.

Then there was the Eurasian festival in Kazakhstan, the Chicago Festival, and South Asian Film Festival in Canada.

The film was shown in the Indian Panorama at the International Film Festival of India in Goa, then in Kolkatta and at the International Film Festival of Kerala in Thiruvananthapuram. It will now be shown at the Bangalore Film Festival.

What was the response to the film at all these film festivals?

It was really good. There were no regional issues as the film has fewer dialogues, communicates visually, and viewers in any part of the globe can easily relate to it.

Where do Malayalam films stand when it comes to international film festivals?

The main challenge is to be at par with international films in terms of themes, visuals, style and presentation.

It is really tough for us as the films made here are mainly dialogue-based.

What was the response to Akashathinte Niram at the Indian film festivals?

The response at IFFI in Goa was really good and the shows were houseful.

There was less importance at IFFK, Thiruvananthapuram as it was not part of the competition section. The schedules got delayed and it was shown without subtitles.

Are you disappointed with the IFFK screening of the film?

Obviously. The film was originally selected for the Mumbai International Film Festival but we had withdrawn it, thinking it would be part of the competition at IFFK.

As per the rules at IFFK, the films in the competition section should not be part of competition at any other film festival in India.

Which is your next film?