At the 97th Academy Awards, Anuja, an emotional short film set in India, lost the Best Live Action Short Oscar to the Dutch sci-fi film I’m Not a Robot. The category featured strong contenders, including The Last Ranger, A Lien, and The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent, but ultimately, I’m Not a Robot emerged victorious.
Directed by Victoria Warmerdam, ‘I’m Not a Robot’ (Dutch: Ik ben geen robot) tells the story of Lara, who, after repeatedly failing CAPTCHA tests, finds herself in an uncanny new reality. The film premiered at the Netherlands Film Festival in September 2023 and has since received critical acclaim for its unique take on identity and technology.
Meanwhile, Anuja (Hindi: अनुजा), a 2024 American Hindi-language short film, captivated audiences with its heartfelt portrayal of two sisters navigating a world that constantly tests their resilience. Directed by philosopher-turned-filmmaker Adam J. Graves, the film stars Sajda Pathan, Ananya Shanbhag, and Nagesh Bhonsle. The story follows Anuja, a gifted nine-year-old girl, and her sister Palak as they face a life-altering opportunity, highlighting the struggles of young girls worldwide.
Produced by South Asian visual artist Suchitra Mattai, ‘Anuja’ premiered on August 17, 2024, at the HollyShorts Film Festival. While the film did not secure an Oscar, its nomination at the prestigious awards underscores its impact and storytelling power.
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ETimes review for ‘Anuja’ reads, “Nominated for an Oscar in the Best Short Film category, this short film resonates deeply, driven by the heartfelt chemistry between its two lead characters—sisters bound by unwavering devotion, willing to sacrifice for each other’s happiness. The narrative is universally relatable, shedding light on the struggles of underprivileged girls in developing countries. Backed by producers Mindy Kaling and Guneet Monga Kapoor, with Priyanka Chopra Jonas as executive producer, the film carries both emotional weight and social purpose, aiming to raise awareness about a critical issue. With its powerful storytelling and understated social commentary on child labour and aspiration, ‘Anuja’ is a moving tale of sacrifice, resilience, and the pursuit of a better future.”
