As the film industry buffs polish their lenses for the glitz and glamour of the 2024 Festival De Cannes Marche Du, one film is generating considerable buzz. The short film ‘Break the Silence’, featuring the remarkable Anupriya Goenka, is set to have its illustrious World premiere at the highly anticipated film festival.
Directed by the accomplished Hemant Chauhan, who began his foray into cinema as a Director of Photography (DOP), ‘Break the Silence’ also marks his directorial debut. Chauhan, whose repertoire includes work on ‘Pehchaan’ with notable figure Mahesh Bhatt and ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’, now enters a new chapter with this venture. This crime suspense film, rooted entirely within the diverse cityscape of Mumbai, unfolds a narrative so compelling, that it’s being heralded at one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world.
Despite being his first project as a director, Chahuan carries the experience of having participated in a variety of roles behind the camera. This diversity in experience has helped Chahuan curate a film that is as visually stunning as it is narratively captivating. ‘Break the Silence’ is not just a movie; it’s a window into the dark underbelly of urban chaos, an exploration of the more corrupt human impulses manifested against the backdrop of Mumbai’s labyrinthine streets.
In discussions about the film, Chauhan reflects on the challenges faced during the production. “The film delves into a dark genre, featuring stellar performances by Anupriya Goenka and a talented ensemble cast, including Rohit Pathak, Yukti Kapoor, Priya Raina, and Rajhans. Shot entirely in Mumbai, it was a monumental task, leading us to Cannes today.” Indeed, the journey from Mumbai to the French Riviera has not been a mere hop, but a laborious stride made possible by a collaborative team.
Furthermore, ‘Break the Silence’ has not only impressed critics and festival juries but has also been recognized with the Dada Saheb Phalke Film Puraskar—a testament to its exceptional craftsmanship. Moreover, the film’s selection for the Tokyo Lift-off Film Festival underlines its global reach and the international acclaim it has garnered. With such honors already under its belt, the film team’s anticipation for its Cannes premiere is palpable, as Chauhan states, “We’re honoured to have received the Dada Saheb Phalke Film Puraskar and been selected for the Tokyo Lift-off Film Festival, signifying a significant milestone for our team.”
In an industry often characterized by a focus on individuals, Chauhan emphasizes the team’s integral role in the project’s success. His heartfelt gratitude extends to each member, from the director of photography to the post-production crew, underscoring that the success of ‘Break the Silence’ was truly a collaborative effort.
Behind the scenes and unseen, the film owes its existence to the diligent work of producer Minara Akhtar of Minara Films. The scale and quality of the production showcase the possibilities that can be achieved when visionary leadership and artistic talent coalesce.
As the Festival De Cannes edges closer, audiences and critics alike are awaiting the unveiling of ‘Break the Silence’. With a story that promises to captivate and performances touted to be nothing short of mesmerizing, expectations for this Indian short film are surging. Will it break the silence and emerge as a cinematic force to be reckoned with? The world will soon find out when the curtains rise and the screens light up in Cannes later this year.
