FTII alumni Maisam Ali's debut film selected for Cannes ACID section

Maisam Ali, an alumnus of FTII, is breaking new ground as he becomes the first Indian director to feature in the prestigious ACID Cannes section.

His debut film, "In Retreat," stands out as the maiden entry from India in this category, showcasing independent cinema since the early 1990s.

Reflecting on his journey to Cannes, Ali expressed his hopes for his film's reception in France, drawing on his previous experiences of screening short films at small French festivals.

"In Retreat" is a subtle and minimalist 75-minute drama exploring themes of belonging and displacement through the lens of a man returning to his hometown after years away. Ali revealed that the inspiration for the film stemmed from encounters with individuals whose narratives resonated with his own experiences.

The protagonist's reluctance to re-enter his familial home mirrors Ali's own ambiguous relationship with the concept of home, shaped by his upbringing in Iran and Ladakh, and subsequent nomadic lifestyle.

Ali's approach to filmmaking is rooted in a quest to capture the fleeting essence of existence, a pursuit that aligns with the philosophies of renowned filmmakers like Bela Tarr, Robert Bresson, and Andrei Tarkovsky.

In crafting "In Retreat," Ali prioritized authenticity in performance, seeking to evoke a sense of hidden truths rather than overt expressions from his actors. This emphasis on subtlety extends to the film's sound design, which eschews ubiquitous musical accompaniment in favor of nuanced auditory textures.

Reflecting on his education at FTII, Ali emphasized the importance of conceptual clarity over rigid adherence to rules and techniques, citing the institute as a pivotal influence in his artistic journey.

As "In Retreat" makes its debut at Cannes, Ali's pioneering spirit and dedication to cinematic authenticity serve as a testament to the transformative power of independent filmmaking.