"Thursday Special": A Cinematic Embrace of Love and Time
Celebrated Directors Unite for "Thursday Special"
Noted Indian cinematic figures Shoojit Sircar and Vikramaditya Motwane have lent their support to "Thursday Special," a short film by the National Award-winning director Varun Tandon. This intimate drama has already received considerable acclaim on the global film festival circuit.
International Acclaim and Poetic Recognition
The film, which delves into the intricate themes of affection, camaraderie, and the relentless march of time, recently secured the Most Poetic Film Award at Serbia's Küstendorf Film Festival 2025. This esteemed honor was personally bestowed by the distinguished director Emir Kusturica.
The Heartwarming Narrative of Ram and Shakuntala
"Thursday Special" features Anubha Fatehpuria and Ramakanth Dayama in the roles of Ram and Shakuntala, a senior married pair whose bond is deeply rooted in their shared enthusiasm for culinary delights and a cherished weekly Thursday ritual. The film was produced by Karan Luthra, with Tandon co-writing the screenplay alongside executive producer Krati Tandon.
Shoojit Sircar's Appreciation for Simplicity
Sircar, known for directing films such as "Piku," "Vicky Donor," and "October," expressed profound admiration for the film's understated narrative style. He remarked that "Thursday Special" deeply resonated with him due to its unpretentious nature and tender storytelling, drawing parallels to his own unreleased work, "Shoe Bite," starring Amitabh Bachchan.
A Nuanced Portrayal of Companionship
Sircar further elaborated on the film's qualities, stating that Varun's sensitive depiction of partnership, aging, and love is both sincere and mature. He found it particularly impressive for a burgeoning filmmaker to tackle such a delicate subject, comparing its essence to his unreleased film "Shoe Bite." He praised the film's lucid and heartfelt storytelling, noting how every aspect of the production served the overarching narrative, and felt compelled to support both Tandon and his work given his prolific output of over 15 short films.
Vikramaditya Motwane's Insight into Overlooked Stories
Motwane, celebrated for his innovative approach to Indian cinema, highlighted the film's focus on often-ignored narratives. He articulated that upon viewing "Thursday Special," he was struck by the realization that while all human stories are valid, many compelling tales exist within the ordinary lives of individuals one might not expect to possess unique experiences.
A Film That Sparks Conversation
Motwane conveyed his genuine enjoyment of the film, suggesting it is a must-see for its ability to foster dialogue and discussion beyond just its aesthetic appeal. He emphasized that while its direction and performances are exquisite, the film's true distinction lies in its authentic story and profound emotional impact.
Varun Tandon's Vision Brought to Life
For Tandon, whose previous short film "Syaahi" received a Special Jury Award at the Indian National Film Awards, "Thursday Special" embodies a long-held creative aspiration. He shared that this narrative had resided in his heart for many years, fueling his excitement and curiosity to see these characters and their lives unfold on screen. Tandon also directed the documentary short "Dribbling Dreams."
A Deep Dive into a Couple's Shared Passion
Tandon described "Thursday Special" as a heartfelt depiction of a couple whose existence revolves around their shared love for food. He explained that through their consistent weekly custom, the audience is invited into their world to explore the intricate nuances of their relationship.
Global Recognition and Upcoming Release
Since its debut at Mecal Pro in Barcelona, the short film has accumulated over 25 accolades at various international festivals. These include prestigious awards such as Best Narrative Short at the New York Indian Film Festival, Best International Short Film at the Adelaide Independent Film Festival, and Best Narrative Short at the Tryon International Film Festival. The film is scheduled for release on January 29th through the Humans of Cinema YouTube channel.