Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Film Debuts in UK: Award-Winning Success

London, Nov 7 (PTI) — Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s latest film, "I’m Not An Actor," made its debut in UK cinemas on Friday. Following a successful run at film festivals, the movie is set for an Indian release in February next year. Siddiqui, who also played a role as producer via Side Hero Entertainment, received critical acclaim and won the Best Actor award at the New York Indian Film Festival earlier this year.

The film, penned and directed by Aditya Kriplani, offers a unique cinematic experience through its simultaneous filming in India and Germany. The project, shot over just one month, embraced a live theatre approach. Kriplani notes, “The live format significantly enhanced performances by eliminating any potential filming fatigue.”

Based in Frankfurt, Kriplani depicted the German segment of the narrative in the city, with Siddiqui playing a disillusioned banker. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, Chitrangada Satarupa portrayed a struggling actress. The film’s storyline unfolds through continuous video calls between these two locations, a feat Kriplani achieved with the use of two iPads.

“We adopted guerrilla filmmaking techniques in India, capturing scenes live, without permits, which added a unique energy to the project,” Kriplani shared during his recent visit to London for the UK premiere at the Bradford International Film Festival (BRADIFF).

BRADIFF co-directors Jan Ruppe and Louisa Rose Mackleston expressed their honor in hosting the film’s UK premiere, noting its ability to resonate with diverse communities. The narrative follows Mouni Roy (played by Satarupa), an aspiring member of London’s Royal Shakespeare Company, and Adnan (portrayed by Siddiqui), who battles depression. An online audition brings them together, sparking a day of connection that profoundly impacts their lives.

Satarupa remarks, “Acting and cinema are intricately woven into India’s cultural tapestry, making films a celebrated aspect of our lives.”

Executive produced by UK-based Aman Dhillon for its British release, the film has already impressed audiences and critics alike. Victoria Krane, director of the Lee Strasberg Institute in New York, praised the film after a special US screening, stating, “Despite its title, the protagonists are indeed phenomenal actors, delivering polished performances. The film’s concept, writing, direction, and execution are exceptional, resembling a painting come to life. ‘I’m Not an Actor’ is both powerful and revelatory, and its glowing reviews are well-deserved.”

During its American festival circuit, Satarupa was awarded Best Actor (Female), while Kriplani received a Jury Mention for Best Director at the DC South Asian Film Festival.

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