Release Date: 6th March 2025 in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji
Language: Auslan, Bengali, Dari, English, Hindi (With English Subtitles)
Director: Onir, Rima Das, Kabir Khan, Imtiaz Ali
Synopsis: Themed around the four pillars of diversity—sexuality, gender, disability, and race— the anthology film “My Melbourne” features four unique diverse stories based on true incidents. My Melbourne is a truly inclusive feature film, celebrating diverse voices and talents. Four iconic Indian filmmakers — Onir, Rima Das, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan worked with emerging creatives from underrepresented backgrounds to create this film about identity and belonging based on authentic migrant experience.
Synopsis: This film situates itself in a modern-day urban lifestyle of a Delhi based estate broker. A romantic tale with a humorous approach that sets a perfect juxtaposition of hilarious and warm. The story follows the character of Ankur, recently gone through a bitter divorce and people around eagerly wanting him to move on. A year later he coincidently rekindles with his junior Antara who was a college heartthrob. Things seem to work out between the two. After putting in effort in the new relationship and going through an extremely romantic proposal, shit hits the fan. Ankur’s ex-wife Prabhleen meets with an accident and suffers from partial amnesia pointedly remembering events only till him proposing to her. Caught in this hilarious & horrific situation Ankur is now put in the pit to fight with these turn of events in his life. Ankur finds himself juggling between managing his wedding preparations & trying to help Prabhleen get her memory back. But the girls are on a different mission. Will Prabhleen be able to win back the love of her life or does the new love triumph over the old?
Mind Blowing Entertainment has announced that MY MELBOURNE, a unique anthology feature film interweaving four powerful stories exploring sexuality, gender, race and disability, shot and situated in Melbourne, releases into Australian cinemas on March 6, and in India on March 14. It is the first Australian film to be distributed in India since 2016.
Producer Mitu Bhowmick LangeAM said: “It’s been almost ten since an Australian film has been released in India so we are absolutely delighted that the film will be screening in more than 22 cities across the country.”
MY MELBOURNE is a truly inclusive feature film, celebrating diverse voices and talents. Four of India’s finest filmmakers – Kabir Khan, Onir, Rimas Das, and Imtiaz Ali – worked with emerging creatives from under-represented backgrounds to create this film about identity and belonging based on authentic migrant experience.
Each of the film’s four narratives are Inspired by true stories or lived experiences, and together create a portrait of life in today’s multi-cultural Melbourne. From the early stages of writing to the final cut, the Indian directors and their professional teams mentored the local cast and crew, and were in Melbourne for each of the shoots.
Featuring in the films are acclaimed Australian actors Kat Stewart (OFFSPRING), and Arka Das (LION), cricket coach and legendary player Brad Hodge, Hindi star Arushi Sharma, Nathan Borg -the first deaf actor to appear in Neighbours, and a number of exciting new talents, such as Afghanistan refugee and budding cricket star Setara Amiri, each playing roles close to their own lived experiences.
The title track of MY MELBOURNE is sung by Janaki Eshwar, known for being the youngest contestant on ‘The Voice Australia’ and a highly accomplished singer, and Parvyn Kaur Singh, the former frontwoman of the cult band, The Bombay Royale. The second track, Azadi, has been sung in both Hindi and Dari by Aryana Sayeed, who is one of Afghanistan’s most loved and inspiring singers and activists, dubbed ‘the Taylor Swift of Afghanistan’.
Producer Mitu Bhowmick LangeAM said: “Our goal for ‘My Melbourne’ is not only to create an entertaining feature film that is authentic, contemporary, honest and relevant but also to discover and nurture the next generation of underrepresented diverse filmmakers and their unique stories. Working with some of the most respected filmmakers in the world, our local creatives have learnt from the best without compromising on their cultural and authentic narrative styles.
STARRING: ARKA DAS, JACKSON GALLAGER, MOULI GANGULY
Synopsis: A story of grief and forgiveness, NANDINI follows the reunion of a queer Indian man, Indraneel and his father Mihir after many years of estrangement. The pair are thrust together again when Mihir comes from India to complete the Asthi Visarjan ash spreading ceremony after the passing of his late wife, Indraneel’s mother.
JULES
Inspired by true events with the theme of gender
Hindi/English
DIRECTOR: IMTIAZ ALI
CO-DIRECTOR: TAMMY YANG
CONCEPT BY: MITU BHOWMICK LANGE AM
SCREENPLAY: ARIF ALI, SHIVANGI BHOWMICK AND MONIQUE NAIR
STARRING: ARUSHI SHARMA, KAT STEWART
Synopsis: Sakshi is a 23-year-old newly married woman who has recently moved to Melbourne Jules is a 52-year-old homeless wanderer with a sharp tongue, a survivor’s spirit and a flair for crossword puzzles and poetry. Their worlds collide on the pavement of St Kilda with unexpected results.
SETARA
Inspired by true events with the theme of race
Dari/English
DIRECTOR: KABIR KHAN
CO-DIRECOR: PUNEET GULATI
CONCEPT AND SCREENPLAY: MONIQUE NAIR AND NAZIFA AMIRI
Synopsis: Fifteen year old Setara joins a local cricket team as she attempts to rebuild her life in Melbourne after fleeing Taliban rule in Afghanistan with her mother and older sister.
EMMA
Inspired by true events with the theme of disability
Auslan/English
DIRECTOR: RIMA DAS
CO-DIRECTOR: SAMIRA COX
CONCEPT AND SCREENPLAY : SAMIRA COX AND MONIQUE NAIR
Synopsis: Emma is a talented deaf dancer living with Usher Syndrome in her early 20s with increasing doubts about her sense of self and her prospects of a career in professional dance. Since childhood, she has dreamed of being a dancer but industry discrimination and other attitudes are holding her back. Despite the support of her family and friends it is not until she meets Nathan, a highly successful deaf dancer who is at peace with himself that she regains her self belief.
KYA MERI YAAD AATI HAI – REMEMBERING THE BRAVE AND THEIR LEGACIES, FEATURING AKSHAY KUMAR, VEER PAHARIYA, SARA ALI KHAN AND NIMRIT KAUR, FROM SKY FORCE, IS OUT NOW!
Produced by Jio Studios and Maddock Films, Sky Force releases in theatres – this Republic week on January 24, 2025 LISTEN TO THE SONG HERE
A beautiful representation of love, sacrifice, and longing, Kya Meri Yaad Aati Hai, the latest song from the highly anticipated film Sky Force, has been released, leaving audiences spellbound. Featuring a stellar cast of Akshay Kumar, Veer Pahariya, Sara Ali Khan, and Nimrat Kaur, the song captures the emotional core of our heroes.
Directed by Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Kapur, Sky Force is a cinematic tribute to India’s unsung heroes, saluting their courage, sacrifice, and enduring camaraderie. While the film’s intense premise showcases bravery on the battlefield, Kya Meri Yaad Aati Hai offers a softer, heartwarming touch, beautifully exploring the emotional lives of its characters.
Sung by the soulful Vishal Mishra, penned by the legendary Irshad Kamil, and composed by the masterful Tanishk Bagchi, the song paints a poignant picture of longing and love. The music of the film is with Saregama
Kya Meri Yaad Aati Hai is a heartfelt tribute not only to the brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for our nation but also to their families. The song reflects on the resilience of their loved ones and the legacy of their courage. It serves as a reminder of the strength, hope, and gratitude that keep their memories alive in the hearts of all.
Talking about the same, Tanishk Bagchi shared his thoughts on crafting the song: “Kya Meri Yaad Aati Hai’ is more than just a song; it’s a journey of longing. We wanted to create a song that resonates universally, blending the pain of separation with the hope of connection. The music mirrors the emotions we all feel but sometimes struggle to express. Working on this song was an emotional experience for me as a composer, and seeing the overwhelming response reaffirms the power of music to touch lives. It’s a piece of my heart, and I’m thrilled it has found its way into the hearts of listeners.”
Directed by Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Kapur, Sky Force is a tribute to India’s unsung heroes, celebrating their courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie. Produced by Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande, and Amar Kaushik, and distributed overseas by Moviegoers Entertainment and Phars Film, the film will be released in theatres on 24th January 2025
MAAYE – AN ODE TO THE BRAVEHEARTS WHO GAVE IT ALL TO DEFEND THEIR MOTHERLAND! THE SONG, FROM SKY FORCE, FEATURING AKSHAY KUMAR AND VEER PAHARIYA, IS OUT NOW
Produced by Jio Studios and Maddock Films, Sky Force releases in theatres – this Republic week on January 24, 2025 LISTEN TO THE SONG HERE
Inspired by the untold true story of India’s first and deadliest airstrike, Sky Force brings for an unparalleled narrative of courage and patriotism, led by the dynamic duo Akshay Kumar and debutant Veer Pahariya. After the stupendous response on the trailer, the makers have dropped the first song – Maaye, the heart of this powerful film, serves as a tribute to unsung heroes who gave it all to defend the nation. This Republic Day week, the anthem will stand as a stirring reminder of the sacrifices made to reclaim India’s glory. The music of theis with Saregama.
Composed by the prolific Tanishk Bagchi, sung soulfully by B Praak, and penned with heartfelt emotion by Manoj Muntashir, Maaye encapsulates the spirit of bravery and resilience. The song is available on Saregama Music YouTube channel and all streaming apps.
As Tanishk Bagchi shares, “Maaye holds a very special place in my heart because it gave me the opportunity to translate the immense courage and sacrifices of our heroes into music. Composing this anthem was about capturing the soul of their bravery and giving it a voice that will stay with people forever. I hope this song becomes a reminder of the countless sacrifices made for our freedom.”
Directed by Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Kapur, Sky Force is a tribute to India’s unsung heroes, celebrating their courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie. Produced by Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande, and Amar Kaushik, and distributed overseas by Moviegoers Entertainment and
Phars Film. As the soul of Sky Force, this anthem will resonate with every Indian, uniting the nation in gratitude for our heroes. Releasing in cinemas this Republic Day week on January 24th, 2025.
AKSHAY KUMAR AND VEER PAHARIYA AMP UP THE ADRENALINE AT THE SKY FORCE TRAILER LAUNCH
Jio Studios and Maddock Films have unveiled the much-anticipated trailer of Sky Force, setting the stage for a breathtaking cinematic journey. The film is inspired by one of India’s first and deadliest-ever air strikes, offering a gripping narrative filled with high-octane action, heartfelt patriotism, and emotional depth.
Ahead of the trailer launch, action superstar Akshay Kumar and debutant Veer Pahariya left fans in awe with their high-energy promotional activities. The duo made a spectacular entry via chopper, followed by a thrilling bike ride to the venue, perfectly capturing the fearless spirit of the film. Adding to the excitement, Akshay and Veer led a one-of-a-kind biker tribute, with riders forming the iconic Sky Force logo, followed by a salute to the skies in honour of the nation’s heroes.
The trailer takes audiences on an adrenaline-fueled journey into one of India’s most daring and untold military operations. From heart-stopping aerial sequences to emotionally charged moments, it sets the tone for a grand cinematic experience.
Founder and Producer at Maddock Films, Dinesh Vijan, says, “The motto of our nation’s soldiers is never to leave any of their comrades behind. This commitment exemplifies the profound bravery and selflessness that define their service. Sky Force is a salute to that commitment. It is the story from an untold chapter in our nation’s history that demanded to be told. At Maddock Films, our goal has always been to craft narratives that not only entertain but also resonate deeply with the audience. It is a privilege to bring this inspiring tale to life on the big screen. With Akshay Kumar helming the film and Veer Pahariya making his debut, we believe Sky Force will etch a lasting impression on the hearts of viewers everywhere. Some missions end, while others last a lifetime. Sky Force promises to last a lifetime.”
President – Media & Content Business, RIL and Producer, Jyoti Deshpande shares, “SkyForce is not just a film; it’s a tribute to the bravery, patriotism, and indomitable spirit of ourarmed forces. This poignant story shines light on a significant chapter of India’s history, honouring the sacrifices of our unsung heroes. At Jio Studios, we take immense pride in bringing to life stories with purpose, and Skyforce is sure to inspire and evoke a deep sense of pride in every Indian. Timed with India’s Republic Day week, Sky Force is a complete package with stunning air combat action sequences as well as drama and emotion with some unforgettable melodies that will strongly connect and leave a lasting impression.”
With Akshay commanding the screen and Veer making a remarkable first impression, the film also features talented actors Nimrat Kaur and Sara Ali Khan in pivotal roles.
Directed by Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Kapur, Sky Force is a tribute to India’s unsung heroes, celebrating their courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie. Produced by Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande, and Amar Kaushik, and distributed overseas by Moviegoers Entertainment and Phars Film, Sky Force will be released in theaters on 24th January 2025, perfectly timed for Republic Day week, promising an inspiring and patriotic start to the year.
GLOBAL ICONS RALLY BEHIND KIRAN RAO’S LOST LADIES ON ITS OSCARS JOURNEY
Lost Ladies, India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars, continues to garner international acclaim and support through a series of high-profile events and screenings. The film’s compelling narrative and artistic brilliance have captured the attention of global audiences and industry stalwarts alike, solidifying its place as a standout contender this awards season.
The campaign began on an elegant note with a reception at the prestigious Taj Buckingham Gate, hosted by Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, producer Kiran Rao, and business leader Jyoti Deshpande. The event brought together film enthusiasts, cultural influencers, and industry veterans to celebrate the film’s journey to representing India at the Academy Awards.
Building on this momentum, Lost Ladies was featured in a special screening at BAFTA’s Princess Anne Theatre. The evening included a Q&A session with Kiran Rao, moderated by esteemed film journalist Jordan Farley, offering insights into the film’s creation and its resonant themes of empowerment and resilience.
Further amplifying its global appeal, celebrated filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón, director of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, hosted an intimate screening at the Bulgari Hotel London. Following the screening, Cuarón moderated a dynamic discussion with Kiran Rao and producer Jyoti Deshpande, delving into the creative vision behind Lost Ladies and its cultural significance.
Rao has championed the film through strategic partnerships with influential organizations such as Women in Film & TV and Reclaim The Frame, underscoring its universal themes and sparking meaningful global conversations.
With endorsements from iconic figures like Alfonso Cuarón, Lost Ladies continues to shine on the international stage, building anticipation and momentum as it embarks on its journey through awards season.
BAFTA CAMPAIGN FOR LOST LADIES KICKS OFF WITH A STAR-STUDDED RECEPTION AND IN-PERSON SCREENINGS IN LONDON
The BAFTA campaign for Lost Ladies, India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars, began on a high note with an elegant reception held at the prestigious Taj Buckingham Gate. Last night, Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, celebrated producer Kiran Rao, and renowned business leader
Jyoti Deshpande hosted a reception in honour of Lost Ladies. The event brought together a dynamic mix of film enthusiasts, industry veterans, and cultural influencers, celebrating the film’s critical acclaim and its remarkable journey to representing India at the Academy Awards.
Kiran Rao has been championing Lost Ladies through a series of special in-person screenings, collaborating with esteemed film networks such as Women in Film & TV and Reclaim The Frame. These partnerships highlight the film’s resonant themes and its commitment to sparking global conversations.
With its powerful narrative and artistic brilliance, Lost Ladies continues to captivate audiences worldwide, setting the stage for a promising run this awards season.
