‘Aatmapamphlet’ marked the first historical association for a Marathi film that brought three stalwarts, Aanand L. Rai, Bhushan Kumar and Zee Studios together. The film has been directed by debutant director Ashish Bende and was recently premiered at the prestigious 73rd Berlin International Film Festival 2023.
The film was selected in the Generation 14plus competition category. It’s written by Paresh Mokashi, accredited with writing and directing films like ‘Harishchandrachi Factory’ (2009) and the recently released ‘Vaalvi’ (2023). The film revolves around a young boy, who falls in love with his classmate. It is a heart-warming tale of one-sided love that shall take the audiences back into nostalgia with dramatic socio-political changes around him. ‘Atmapamphet’ stars master Om Bendkhale, Pranjali Shrikant Bhimrao Munde and Ketaki Saraf in pivotal roles.
The premiere of ‘Aatmapamphlet’ at the festival received a roaring response and was attended by Ashish Bende, master Om Bendkhale, Satyajeet Jadhav, Paresh Mokashi, Aanand L. Rai, Shariq Patel, Madhugandha Kulkarni, Kanupriya Iyer and the dignitaries from Zee Studios such as Ashima Avasthi, Bhumika Tewari, Neeraj Joshi, Mangesh Kulkarni and Jatin Talwar. The premiere and subsequent shows are sold out entirely.
Excited director Ashish Bende shared, “‘Aatmapamphlet’ isn’t just a film; it is my passion project. I don’t think a first-time director can ask for something more than this! To have the film screened at the most celebrated film festival, is a tremendous high point in my life. The film’s screening at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival has vividly pushed the imagination of young film makers and has empowered them to dream bigger.”
Shariq Patel, CBO of Zee Studios stated, “Zee Studios has always believed in the power of regional storytelling. With ‘Aatmapamphlet’s selection at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival, we have affirmed our resolve to carve a niche for the Indian entertainment industry in the global circuit. We are proud to have added Marathi cinema to the lists of cinema-enthusiasts all over the world.”
Producer Aanand L. Rai of Colour Yellow Productions shared, “ ‘Aatmapamphlet’ is a beautiful film and very dear to me as it marks my debut as a producer in the Marathi cinema. It has been an incredible experience working on this one. It is a feel-good movie and a heart-warming tale that shall leave you with a smile on your face. After all, cinema is all about amplifying human emotions on the silver screen and our film does that very well.”
Producer Bhushan Kumar of T-Series added, “The film exudes raw human emotions in the most simplified manner. I believe storytelling draws an immediate connection with the audiences when it’s humane. The film beautifully portrays the authenticity of India, especially Maharashtra! It is indeed a proud feeling to bring Indian culture into the global entertainment space.”
Madhugandha Kulkarni from Mayasabha Karmanuk Mandali shared, “It is an absolute delight to see Marathi cinema making global waves. The most pleasant part was seeing our film get such immense love from audiences who don’t necessarily understand the Marathi language. Entertainment truly transcends boundaries.”
‘Aatmapamphlet’ has received accolades from international audiences. It is one of the first Marathi films to attain such a grand international recognition. The audiences have particularly appreciated the feel-good factor of the film and its unique storyline apart from a stellar performance of the cast. After the upcoming film ‘Joram’s official selection at the 52nd International Film Festival Rotterdam 2023, ‘Brown’s’ selection at the Berlinale Market Selects and had Yami Gautam’s ‘Lost’ open at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival 2022 held in September last year, Zee Studios is consistently creating content that’s redefining Indian entertainment in the global circuit.
