Move over, mainstream Bollywood – there’s a new gem in town! Filmmaker Lakshmipriya Devi’s much acclaimed Manipuri film Boong has finally made its way to theatres from September 19.
Produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel Entertainment in collaboration with Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, Boong is not just a film – it’s a heartfelt journey from the lush valleys of Manipur straight into your soul.
A Tale That Tugs the Heart strings
Boong tracks the journey of a feisty young lad and his widowed mother residing in a peaceful Manipuri village, both tormented by the disappearance of his father, Joykumar. Previously a diligent man who traveled to another town for work, Joykumar disappears suddenly without leaving any hints.
Is he lost forever Or did he leave of his own accord ?
Bent on presenting his mother with “the best gift ever,” young Boong embarks on a heart-wrenching and poignant adventure with his best friend in search of his missing father — an adventure that is as much one of discovery as it is of love, hope, and bravery.
Lead roles are played by Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam in this film, both of whom render performances that infuse every shot with authenticity.
Toronto to Indian Theatres
Having caused waves at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2024, where it was warmly praised for its depth of emotions and breathtaking cinematography, Boong has now reached some PVR INOX cinemas in India — a moment of pride for Manipuri cinema.
For the very first time, viewers throughout the nation are able to see the beauty, strength, and oral traditions of storytelling in Manipur on the silver screen.
The Director Who Wrote With the Camera
Boong is the directorial debut of Lakshmipriya Devi, who has worked behind the camera on some of Indian cinema’s most legendary films, including Luck by Chance, Talaash, PK, and Mira Nair’s A Suitable Boy. Discussing her inspiration, Devi stated: “Boong is the book I was unable to write due to my poor English! It’s based on my grandmother’s stories that provided me with warmth and comfort during my childhood. This film is for the strength of Manipuri people. I am all overwhelmed — it’s sheer disbelief, joy, and thankfulness that a Manipuri movie is finally being seen by a larger audience in mainland India.”Her words are a testament to the spirit of the film — down-to-earth, sincere, and full of affection for her heritage.
A New Chapter for Indian Cinema
PVR INOX Pictures CEO Kamal Gianchandani stated he’s excited to introduce Boong to Indian film-goers.”With PVR INOX, we think there’s a market for every type of cinema. Boong is rooted in local realities but has a universal appeal. It’s just the sort of film that reminds us why storytelling exists.”
A Small Film but a Big Soul
Boong, with its breathtaking scenery, heart-wrenching narrative, and tender balance of innocence and suffering, is set to be one of the most heart-warming releases of the year.It’s not a movie — it’s an odyssey of love, loss, and yearning experienced by a child. And that simplicity is what makes it genius.So, if you need something authentic, unvarnished, and profoundly emotional, go watch at your closest PVR INOX as Boong embarks you on a cinematic journey to Manipur — where myths, family, and faith live on the big screen.
