MAIN DRAMATIC COMPETITION “MAKING WAY”

SISTER MIDNIGHT

2024 / 110 min / color

Uma (a powerful, physical performance by Radhika Apte) and Gopal (Ashok Pathak) have just entered an arranged marriage, and it quickly becomes apparent that neither of them was prepared for it. Gopal is visibly embarrassed by the slightest attempt at physical contact, and Uma feels totally out of place as a housewife — she expects the world to adapt to her, not the other way around. Frustration grows, and their small apartment starts to feel like a prison. Uma’s salvation seems to be venturing out into Mumbai on her own, getting to know the city and herself better. During these outings, a much darker side gets awakened in the restless young woman. Karna Kandhari’s film draws on the conventions of genre films to tell a story about social and gender roles within a patriarchal society. With its feminist undertones, Sister Midnight defies easy categorization, combining elements of comedy and horror. The film premiered in the Director’s Fortnight section of the last Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for the prestigious BAFTA award.

A Q&A session with the filmmakers will take place during the film screening on May 2 at 2:30 PM at the Academy of Fine Arts.
Please note: the Q&A will be in English.

• BAFTA – Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer (nomination)
• Austin FF – Next Wave Award