Needless to say, the jury was besieged by some excellent contenders yet again.
The titles on our shortlist included:
Every good marriage begins with tears by Simon Chambers.
The difficult subject of forced marriages amongst British Asians, told from an insider's point of view with respect, humour and insight. The outspoken characters reflect a deep trust in the director who makes himself vulnerable as well. A film which leads to empathy instead of judgment.
We Corner People by Kesang Tseten.
The dilemma of accepting NGO funds or doing creative work is one faced by most South Asian filmmakers. The film provides an example of how it can be subverted as it tells human stories with absence as its narrative.
Motherland Afghanistan by Sedika Mojadidi.
A devastating portrayal of a devastated people. One is taken through the harrowing circumstances of being a woman in Afghanistan with an unflinching eye. The film journeys through generations which return home to more questions than answers.
Now for the award: For the autobiographical tale of courage and quiet determination of a woman who returns to Bangalore to confront her past, her parents and herself. A story
told honestly as it unravels, the award goes to the Remembrance of Things Present by Chandra Siddan.
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