In a night bursting with glamour and cinematic reverence, the 77th Cannes Film Festival witnessed a groundbreaking moment as Indian cinematographer Santosh Sivan was bestowed with the illustrious Pierre Angenieux ExcelLens in Cinematography award. The notable accolade was handed over by acclaimed actor and long-time associate Preity Zinta, further elevating the evening’s grandeur and emotional resonance.
The ceremony took place on a memorable Friday night at the renowned Palais de Festivals, an iconic venue that has seen some of the most significant moments in cinematic history. This year, it was the turn of Indian cinema to shine brightly on the global stage, reflecting the profound impact and continued evolution of the nation’s film industry. Draped in an elegant pink saree, Preity Zinta’s presence added a touch of Grace as she stepped up to present the celebrated award to Sivan.
A heartwarming moment ensued, as the duo shared their journey that began in Mani Ratnam’s 1998 romantic drama Dil Se. The film not only marked Zinta’s entry into Bollywood but also showcased Sivan’s exceptional talent in cinematography. Their professional journey, which has come full circle, is set to continue with their upcoming project, the period drama Lahore 1947, directed by Rajkumar Santoshi.
Originating in 2013, the Pierre Angenieux ExcelLens in Cinematography award is a tribute to outstanding contributions in the field of cinematography. Over the years, it has recognized and celebrated the work of legendary cinematographers, including Edward Lachman, Agnes Godard, Barry Ackroyd, and Roger Deakins. Santosh Sivan’s accolade is particularly significant as he stands as the first Asian to join this esteemed league, marking a historic moment for the Indian and Asian cinematic community.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Sivan expressed a deep sense of gratitude and nostalgia. He reminisced about his early experience using Angenieux lenses in the 1989 film Raakh, starring Aamir Khan. “This award means a great deal to me as it includes DoPs I have admired, such as Zsigmond and Deakins,” he said in an interview with Variety. His words encapsulated the humility and dedication that have been the hallmarks of his career.
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Santosh Sivan’s career spans several decades, encompassing more than 55 feature films and a multitude of documentaries, all of which have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. His collaborations with celebrated director Mani Ratnam on films such as Roja, Thalapathi, Dil Se, and Iruvar, have become benchmarks in Indian cinema. Each film showcased his visionary use of light and composition, shaping the way stories are told on screen.
Beyond Indian cinema, Sivan has also ventured into international waters with projects like Gurinder Chadha’s Bride and Prejudice and MF Hussain’s Meenaxi. His artistic philosophy, which he describes poetically, emphasizes the harmony of light and shade, and the rhythm of camera movement. “For me, light and shade is the melody, and the composition and movement of the camera is the rhythm. If I find that these two things are there in a shot, then I’m most excited, I like that,” he elaborated, offering insight into the creative mind that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Sivan has also been a forerunner in the industry’s transition from celluloid to digital cinematography. His directorial venture Urumi (2011) marked his initial steps into the digital realm, a transition he fully embraced with the film Thuppakki (2012). This shift has allowed him to explore new horizons and push the boundaries of visual storytelling further.
The recognition of Santosh Sivan’s contributions to cinematography at Cannes 2024 is not just a milestone for him personally but a significant moment for Indian cinema as a whole. It underscores the global relevance and artistic excellence of Indian filmmakers and cinematographers, trailblazing a path for future generations.
As Indian cinema continues to captivate audiences around the world, the accolades and recognition garnered by figures like Santosh Sivan inspire and elevate the entire industry. The 77th Cannes Film Festival has yet again underscored that cinema knows no boundaries, and excellence in storytelling transcends geographical limits.
Indian cinema
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Tamil cinema
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Hindi cinema
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Cannes Film Festival
