Spying Stars Shines at Busan International Film Festival

New Delhi, Aug 28 (PTI) - "Spying Stars", produced by renowned director Nila Madhab Panda, will be featured at the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) in a new competition section.

The festival, traditionally non-competitive, has introduced this new section as part of its anniversary celebrations.

With fourteen films competing, the Busan Awards will be presented in five categories: Best Film, Best Director, Special Jury Prize, Best Actor, and Artistic Contribution.

The award trophy is crafted by acclaimed Thai filmmaker and artist Apichatpong Weerasethakul.

"Spying Stars" is directed by Vimukthi Jayasundara, noted for winning the Caméra d'Or at Cannes with his debut film "The Forsaken Land" in 2005.

Nila Madhab Panda stated, "Producing this film is more than just creation; it's a spiritual journey.

Vimukthi's reflections on viruses, nature, AI, and the metaphysical world make 'Spying Stars' both powerful and timely.

His use of psychological layers turns it into an experience, exploring fear, silence, and stillness, ultimately finding inner freedom."

The film tells the story of Anandi (Indira Tiwari), a biotechnician who, while trying to fulfill her father’s last rites on Hanuman Island, gets quarantined at a remote hotel during a pandemic.

A mysterious star follows her, prompting her escape to a shelter with a mother and her transgender daughter.

Director Jayasundara remarked, "My film shows how our device-controlled world transformed into an unknown and uncomfortable reality. It's a spiritual liberation film questioning how we retain our humanity amidst pervasive voyeurism and technological control."

The film also stars Kaushakya Fernando and Samanalee Fonseka and is produced by Vincent Wang, with co-producers Arfi Laamba, Katharina Suckale, and Michel Klein.

"Spying Stars" is the first endeavor from Panda's new studio, Eleeanora Images. Their upcoming projects include three narrative features and two documentaries, with Panda's next directorial project slated to begin in early 2026.

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