Tumbbad And ship of theseus Cinematographer Pankaj Kumar is all set to make his feature directorial debut with a tribal action drama cognacThe project, which will be shot in Konyak Naga and Hindi languages, emerged from Ghosh’s trip to Nagaland. Kumar is also known for his work in films Brahmastra Part One: Shiva And shedWill both direct and produce the film through his production banner focused on dramatic storytelling. Ranbir Kapoor Announces Raj Kapoor Film Festival at IFFI 2024, Shares ‘Kisi Ki Muskurahaton Pe’ Was First Song He Played for Daughter Raha.
Kumar, who shot for the Prime Video series Raj & DK fake and netflix series guns and rosesCurrently in post-production KhauffA horror series directed by him for Prime Video.
The film, set in Northeast India, was selected for the NFDC Screenwriters Lab 2024, part of Film Bazaar, and will be produced through Kumar’s newly established Jiboom Studios.
Kumar said: “The approach to cognac The aim is to create something unique and indomitable, a film that lives and breathes on the big screen, where every frame tells a story of endurance and legacy. As a director coming from a cinematography background, this is the kind of project that gives me an opportunity to bring all those elements together.”
“It is exciting to collaborate with Uddhav on this – taking his compelling narrative and molding it into a gorgeous visual experience that is as deeply rooted in the essence of its setting as it is driven by the pulse of adventure.”
Written by Uddhav Ghosh, the film tells the story of a young warrior named Thungpang who, guided by a prophetic vision, must protect his community during a deadly conflict between hunting tribes. The story explores themes of betrayal and honor as he confronts his former friend-turned-enemy Sangba, reports variety.com.
Ghosh shared that the vision was always clear – to create an action epic that felt raw, unfiltered and full of authenticity, based on the original story of films like this. fury road And Apocalypto,
“With Pankaj Kumar now on board as director, his visual mastery elevates this film to the cinematic spectacle it deserves. His enthusiasm matches mine, as we create a story that is not just about action but about identity and the resilience that lives in everyday life,” said Ghosh.
Script editor Claire Dobbin, who guided the project, describes it as “much more than an action film”. It is a compelling story of betrayal, courage and resilience and shines a light on a little-known, but unforgettable people – the Konyaks.”
Maarten Robarts, head of IFFR Pro at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, who has also served as a lab mentor, says: “Like many thoughtful filmmakers in all parts of the formerly colonized world, Uddhav Ghosh is passionate about the work of indigenous First Nations peoples. “Discovering long-hidden stories.” And their collaboration is helping to uncover a deep and complex history, resistance to the British Empire, and the deep connection to land and place that binds them together in love, war, blood and spirit. IFFI 2024: Reflecting on career, Prakash Jha said, ‘Despite awards, I have not achieved anything.’
Film Bazaar is the project market component of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
