Kalki Koechlin starrer Margarita, With a Straw, about a young romantic rebel in a wheelchair, is set for its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival that starts on September 4.
The film’s director Shonali Bose is “ecstatic”.
“Toronto was also home to my first feature Amu. Margarita, With a Straw is a deeply personal film. It is inspired by the extraordinary spirit of my boys — Ishan and Vivan — and by the joi de vive of my sister Malini, who has never let disability stand in her way,” she said.
Jointly produced by Viacom18 Motion Pictures, Jakhotia Group, Ishan Talkies and ADAPT, the film will be screened in the Contemporary World Cinema section on September 8, said a statement.
In the film, Koechlin’s character Laila, undeterred by cerebral palsy, embarks on a journey of sexual discovery and her exhilarating adventures cause a rift both within herself and with those she is closest to.
Cast
Seasoned actress Revathy, Hollywood actor William Moseley and newcomer Sayani Gupta will also be seen playing pivotal roles in the movie.
Bose said she was “indebted” to her brilliant cast and crew, “especially my co-director and writer Nilesh Maniyar for actualising my dream into a reality”.
Ajit Andhare, COO of Viacom18 Motion Pictures, said he was confident that Margarita, With a Straw, a contemporary story, will strike a chord with global audiences. “It is heartening to see Indian filmmakers getting an opportunity to showcase their work alongside the best in their fields,” he said.
The production house believes in nurturing talent that brings with them “a unique blend of freshness, world class filmmaking, yet a decidedly Indian soul”, he said.
Meanwhile, Viacom18 Motion Pictures’ Mary Kom, a biopic of the five-time world champion boxer which has Priyanka Chopra in the title role, will also be shown on the opening night of the fest.
