‘Last Film Show’ Trailer: India’s Official Oscar Entry Looks Promising

Pan Nalin's ‘Last Film Show’ (‘Chhello Show’) has been selected as India's Official Entry to the Best International Feature Film category at the 95th Academy Awards. The trailer of the film, which has been nominated to the Oscars from India, looks promising to get the coveted award.

Inspired by director Pan Nalin’s childhood in rural Gujarat, ‘Last Film Show’ (‘Chhello Show’) is a Gujarati language film that follows a nine-year-old boy, Samay (Bhavin Rabari), who's ensnared by the magic and science of celluloid film projection and begins to create his own 35mm movie with his friends. Manoeuvring through both social pressures and economic precarity, he pursues his passion for the “film show” with single-minded devotion, oblivious to the technological upheaval hurtling towards him.

Talking about the film, director Pan Nalin said, "The film is inspired by my own life and how cinema changed it in a beautiful, unexpected and uplifting way. I have set it in a time before the advent of mobile phones, streaming platforms or access to film schools. Samay's journey captures the unadulterated joy of storytelling and cinematic creation. With the trailer out today, people will get a deeper glimpse into our world of ‘Last Film Show’ (‘Chhello Show’)."

On the same note, producer Siddharth Roy Kapur said, "I am delighted to present the trailer of Last Film Show. Director Pan Nalin has crafted a moving tribute to the magic and wonder of cinema. The film has been selected as India's official entry to the Oscars 2023. It's a great honour for Roy Kapur Films and validation of the film's authenticity as well as universal appeal."

Producer, Dheer Momaya adding on to the film’s story, said, "Pan Nalin's origin story is deeply fascinating. His childhood serves as the canvas for the story of Samay, a boy with a big dream who overcomes all odds to fulfil his vision. I'm honoured to present the film to global and Indian audiences. Hope you enjoy the trailer! See you at the cinemas on October 14."

For the unversed, the film stars Bhavin Rabari, Richa Meena, Bhavesh Shrimali, Dipen Raval, Rahul Koli and Vikas Bata, and is produced by Roy Kapur Films, Jugaad Motion Pictures, Monsoon Films and Chhello Show LLP. It will be released by Sam Goldwyn Films in the USA. Roy Kapur Films in partnership with PVR Cinemas will be distributing the film in India. ‘Last Film Show’ (‘Chhello Show’) is set to release in theatres in Gujarat and across India on October 14.