Celebrated filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf Spotlights “A Fly on the Wall” at Busan International Film Festival

At the recently concluded Busan International Film Festival, renowned Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Makhnalbaf (known for Kandahar and The President among other notable films) praised the impact of Indian cinema on the global stage, with a particular focus on Shonali Bose and Nilesh Maniyar’s documentary feature, ‘A Fly on the Wall’.

Selected in competition in the Wide angle section of the festival, ‘A Fly on the Wall’ marks Bose and Maniyars third outing at the prestigious festival after ‘Margarita with a Straw’ and ‘The Sky is Pink’.

Makhnalbaf described the film as “poetic, philosophical, and deep,” highlighting its profound exploration of a man’s confrontation with death in front of the camera. He characterized the work as “shocking and profound,” emphasizing its significance as an example of the vibrant independent cinema that has emerged over the past two decades.

“Makhmalbaf has inspired us over decades with the spirit of his stories and life. His words as head of jury of the wide angle documentary competition at Busan, rejuvenates my belief in telling stories fearlessly, no matter how small or big.  One doesn’t have to box oneself, instead let stories decide the form and take you on the journey.” Said filmmaker,Nilesh Maniyar

“I was speechless when none other than renowned and inspiring doyen of Iranian cinema -  Mohsen Makhmalbaf – made a special mention of our film at the Award Ceremony in Busan. It validated our decision to make a raw, honest, personal and intimate film and it gave me confidence as a filmmaker about sticking with my gut. It would not be an exaggeration to say that his words are the highlight of my entire filmmaking career.” added filmmaker Shonali Bose ecstatically.

Makhmalbaf’s documentary ‘Talking with Rivers’ was screened at the Wide Angel section of the festival.

His remarks reflect the growing recognition of Indian filmmakers and their ability to craft powerful narratives that resonate on international platforms.