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'Laapataa Ladies': India's Film Nominated for Oscar 2025

Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, is India's Oscar hope for 2025. Set in rural India, the film follows the journey of two brides, Phool and Jaya, who accidentally swap places on a train.

Film Overview and Plot

Directed by Kiran Rao, produced by Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Productions.
Set in rural India, following the journey of two brides, Phool and Jaya, who accidentally swap places on a train.
Cast includes Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Ravi Kisan, and Chhaya Kadam.
Runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes.
Based on an award-winning story by Biplab Goswami.
Screenplay and dialogue by Sneha Desai, with additional dialogues by Divyanidhi Sharma.

Oscar Nomination and Selection Process

Officially nominated for Oscars 2025 in the Best Foreign Film Category.
Selected by the Film Federation of India (FFI) from 22 entries (12 Hindi, 6 Tamil, 4 Malayalam).
13-member jury led by filmmaker Jahnu Barua made the selection.
Competed against notable films like "Animal," "Kill," "Kalki 2898 AD," "Srikanth," and "All We Imagine As Light."
Selection praised for showcasing independent cinema and diverse storytelling.

Film Journey and Reception

Premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2023, receiving a standing ovation.
Theatrical release in India on March 1, 2024.
Garnered critical acclaim from both critics and audiences.
Found new fanbase after release on Netflix.
Available on Netflix with subtitles in English, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, and Brazilian Portuguese.
Kiran Rao expressed deep honor and delight at the film's selection.
Aamir Khan called it the "happiest news" and praised Rao and her team.

Controversy and Impact

FFI's citation document sparked controversy for describing Indian women as a "strange mix of submission and dominance."
Social media users criticized the definition and pointed out that the selection committee consisted of 13 men.
Despite controversy, the film is recognized for its fresh perspective and as a platform for new talent.
Highlights the growing importance of indie films in representing India globally.
Demonstrates the impact of digital platforms in amplifying a film's reach.
Rao hopes the film will resonate with audiences worldwide.

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