Malayalam film Adaminte Makan Abu, India’s official entry in the Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards, has failed to find space amongst the shortlisted films.
Actor Zarina Wahab who stars in director Salim Ahamed’s debut venture says, “We were pretty sad that we didn’t make it, but if it hasn’t happened, its ok. We are not feeling negative about it, because we didn't even expect a nomination. There are thousands of movies made every year and at least ours was considered for the Oscars.” The 52-year-old further adds, “We got a very positive response when we went to LA. We were made to feel like we had already won an Oscar.”
The film tells the story of a perfume seller Abu, whose last wish in life is to go for the Hajj pilgrimage. Wahab plays the female lead as his wife.
The nominations for the Academy Awards were announced last Tuesday. While the ceremony will be held on February 26 in Los Angeles, It will be aired live in India on February 27, on Star Movies.
Foreign’s final five
A Separation (Iran) — is touted as the front-runner for the win.
Bullhead (Belgium)
Footnote (Israel)
In Darkness (Poland)
Monsieur Lazhar (Canada)