A groundbreaking film project is set to bridge the cultural and creative worlds of Papua New Guinea (PNG) and India, marking the first major cinematic co-production between the two countries. NAFA Productions of PNG has partnered with India’s Neelam Productions and Silicon Media to create a film that will spotlight PNG’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes on the global stage. Indian High Commissioner Shri Inbasekar Sundaramurthi expressed his excitement about the collaboration. He stated, “NAFA Productions is thrilled to announce this pioneering cinematic partnership.” “This film will showcase the extraordinary beauty and cultural richness of Papua New Guinea to a worldwide audience.” “It is the first significant co-production project between both India and Papua New Guinea.” This film project is more than just a movie, it is a significant opportunity for young Papua New Guineans. Students from the Arts Institutions and the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) will gain invaluable hands-on experience by working alongside seasoned professionals from India. Meanwhile, the Chairman of Cole Group and Master of Ceremony at the launching, Sivalinga Prasad, stress more about the benefits PNG could gain from the first ever film collaboration with such a country like India. “We want to ensure that this project benefits our youth.” “By collaborating with experienced filmmakers, our students will acquire essential skills and knowledge that will serve them well in their careers.” The project stands as evidence to the power of cultural exchange, blending the creative talents of PNG and India. The film, set against the vibrant and diverse backdrop of PNG, will be directed by the acclaimed Br. Bijukumar Damodaran, a three-time recipient of India’s National Film Awards whose works have been celebrated at numerous international film festivals. The film will feature prominent actors from both India and PNG. Renowned Hindi and Bengali actress Ritabari Chakraborty and acclaimed South Indian actor Prakash Bare will play leading roles. The music for the film will be composed by Ricky Kej, a three-time Grammy Award winner, adding a unique and high-quality touch to the production. The film project is expected to bring substantial benefits to PNG, potentially boosting tourism and local businesses by showcasing the country’s unique landscapes and culture. It also sets a promising precedent for future international film collaborations, demonstrating that PNG can be an attractive destination for global film productions. Principal photography for the film is scheduled to begin in mid-July 2024 in various picturesque locations across PNG. This project represents a significant milestone for PNG’s burgeoning film industry, opening doors for more international projects in the future. High Commissioner Sundaramurthi added that this film project is more than just a movie, it is a celebration of Papua New Guinea’s cultural richness and a significant step forward for the local film industry. It offers a platform for local talent to shine and gain valuable experience, while also developing a deeper cultural exchange between PNG and India. Timeline of Key Events · May - June 2024: Pre-production completion, co-production agreement, flight ticketing, and visa processing. · July - August 2024: Filming in PNG. · August - October 2024: Post-production completion in India. · January - September 2025: International festival screenings. · September 2025: Oscar submission from PNG as the official entry for the international feature film category. · October - December 2025: Oscar promotions involving sales agents and distributors.