In an unprecedented move, a groundbreaking Austrian film featuring an Indian actor speaking German is nearing its completion in Vienna. Titled “Happy” and conceived by Indian-origin Austrian filmmaker Sandeep Kumar, this project promises to be a unique blend of cultures and languages rarely seen in cinema. The storyline revolves around Sahidur Rahman, a Mumbai-based actor, who steps into the shoes of an illegal immigrant struggling with the grim consequences of a deportation notice.
Sahidur Rahman, who studied at the National School of Drama in Delhi, has previously been noted for his role in Karan Tejpal’s “Stolen,” which had its world premiere at the 80th Venice Film Festival last year. His involvement in “Happy” marks a significant milestone in his career, as he dedicated four intensive months to learning the German language before filming commenced.
Director Sandeep Kumar shared his thoughts on casting Rahman, “Initially, I contacted a busy Mumbai actor for the lead role in ‘Happy’. He appreciated the script but couldn’t commit due to other engagements. Sahidur has exceeded all expectations with his performance.” Kumar expressed this on the sidelines of the 77th Cannes Film Festival, illustrating how meticulous planning and casting are key to high-caliber filmmaking.
The genesis of “Happy” dates back to 2012 when Kumar observed that many newspaper vendors in the subways and streets of Vienna were immigrants from the Indian subcontinent, often living under precarious circumstances. Initially intending to document their lives through a documentary, Kumar eventually shaped their experiences into a fictional narrative. “I realized I would be more comfortable making fiction. Documentary filmmaking is not my forte,” he explained. This decision allowed him to capture the emotional and psychological nuances of his characters more profoundly.
The film, set against the backdrop of Austria’s stringent immigration policies, sheds light on the intimate life of the protagonist and his nine-year-old half-Austrian daughter.
. One of the central themes explores his relentless pursuit of happiness for himself and his daughter amidst the looming threat of deportation. “The film also examines the lives of people around the protagonist—individuals who, despite having material wealth, are in their own battles for happiness,” Kumar added. Such themes resonate deeply in today’s globalized world, emphasizing universal struggles and emotional conflicts.
Reflecting on the socio-political context, Kumar noted, “A significant number of illegal immigrants were deported from Austria in 2023. It felt timely and essential to tell this story.” This comment underscores the film’s relevance and urgency, positioning it as both a personal drama and a socio-political statement.
Sandeep Kumar is no stranger to film festivals and critical acclaim. His previous film, “Mehrunisa,” starring the late actress Farrukh Jaffar, was showcased at the International Film Festival of India in Goa in 2021, before making rounds at various other festivals. With a track record of exploring complex narratives, Kumar’s foray into a film like “Happy” is eagerly awaited by cinephiles around the globe.
Supported by the Austrian Film Commission, “Happy” integrates snippets of Hindi and English into its predominantly German dialogue, adding to the film’s cultural richness. The production is poised for a festival circuit run followed by a theatrical release later this year, paving the way for a broader audience to experience this unique story.
As “Happy” gears up for its release, it stands as a testament to the power of cinema in bridging cultural divides and challenging conventional storytelling norms. Sahidur Rahman’s dedication to mastering a new language for his role reflects the film industry’s evolving landscape, where linguistic and cultural barriers are increasingly being transcended in the pursuit of compelling narratives.
In conclusion, Sandeep Kumar’s “Happy” is more than just a film; it’s a cultural experiment that breaks new ground in international cinema, offering a fresh perspective on the immigrant experience through the lens of an Indian actor in a German-speaking role in Vienna. As the film readies for its debut, it holds the promise of captivating audiences and sparking important conversations about identity, belonging, and the quest for happiness.
