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Anurag Kashyap returns to children’s cinema with “Little Thomas”
Anurag Kashyap, the maverick filmmaker known for his gritty and hard-hitting narratives, is making a surprising yet delightful return to the children’s film genre with his latest production, “Little Thomas.” This comedy-drama, directed by debutant Kaushal Oza, is set to premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), promising a heartwarming experience for audiences of all ages.
A nostalgic journey to 1990s Goa
“Little Thomas” transports viewers to the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant culture of 1990s Goa. The story revolves around a seven-year-old boy named Thomas, played by the talented child actor Hridansh Parekh. Thomas embarks on a whimsical mission to reunite his quarreling parents, hoping that their reconciliation will bring him a baby brother. This endearing plot is sure to resonate with both children and adults, evoking a sense of nostalgia and innocence.
A stellar cast brings the story to life
The film boasts an impressive cast, including Gulshan Devaiah and Rasika Duggal, who play Thomas’s parents. Devaiah, known for his roles in “That Girl in Yellow Boots” and “Shaitan,” describes “Little Thomas” as a “sweet, cute film” that stands out for its genuine portrayal of childhood. Duggal, praised for her performances in “Manto” and “Delhi Crime,” commends the script for its “interesting sense of humor” and its commitment to a narrative free of unnecessary frills.
Anurag Kashyap’s vision for children’s cinema
Kashyap, who last ventured into children’s cinema with the 2007 animated film “Return of Hanuman,” was drawn to Oza’s vision of creating an authentic children’s film from a child’s perspective. “It’s a difficult genre actually, to make an authentic children’s film,” Kashyap remarked. “So one has to ensure that it’s a good script before making it.”
The making of “Little Thomas”
Kaushal Oza, an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), revealed that over 700 children were auditioned to cast Thomas and his friends. This meticulous casting process underscores the film’s dedication to authenticity and capturing the essence of childhood. The film is produced by Luminoso Pictures, Civic Studios, Flip Films, and Kashyap’s Good Bad Films.
Anushka Shah, producer at Civic Studios, called “Little Thomas” a “refreshingly delightful story.” She added, “Thomas’ boundless imagination, curiosity, and resilience could positively shape children’s mindsets in formative years – an important reason for Civic Studios to back this film.”
Producer Ranjan Singh of Flip Films, who previously co-produced Oza’s short “The Miniaturist of Junagadh,” decided to produce “Little Thomas” after reading the script in 2018, finding it to be an “authentic children’s film.”
A promising future for “Little Thomas”
In addition to Hridansh Parekh, the film also stars Hridyansh Gokani, Ninad Pandith, and Mahabanoo Mody-Kotwal. Following its festival run, “Little Thomas” is expected to have a theatrical release in India, bringing its charming story to a wider audience.
IFFM: A celebration of diverse cinema
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) opens on August 15 with the anthology film “My Melbourne,” directed by Rima Das, Onir, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan. The festival will close on August 25 with Shuchi Talati’s Sundance winner “Girls Will Be Girls.” These films, along with “Little Thomas,” highlight the rich diversity and creativity of Indian cinema.
Reflecting on the impact of children’s films
As we anticipate the release of “Little Thomas,” it’s worth reflecting on the impact that children’s films can have on young minds. Films like these not only entertain but also educate and inspire, shaping the values and perspectives of future generations. Anurag Kashyap’s return to this genre is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to touch hearts across all ages.
For more information and to watch the trailer of “Little Thomas,” visit https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/little-thomas.
