Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani's Excel Entertainment continues to champion unique stories with their latest production, the Manipuri film "Boong," which has been selected as the Spotlight Film at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025. IFFM will take place from August 14-24, 2025.
"Boong" marks the directorial debut of Lakshmipriya Devi, who has worked as the first assistant director on acclaimed films such as "Luck by Chance," "Talaash," "PK," and Mira Nair's "A Suitable Boy". Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange expressed excitement about presenting the world premiere of "Boong" as this year's Spotlight Film, emphasizing its bold and intimate storytelling and Lakshmipriya Devi's powerful debut. She stated that IFFM is committed to championing new voices, and "Boong" is a story that resonates globally, deeply rooted in its context yet universally human in its emotion.
"Boong" stars Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam in the lead roles. The film follows Boong and his friend Sanamatum as they journey to reunite his family, a gift for his mother. The film premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) under the Discovery section. It received a "U" certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2025.
Lakshmipriya Devi's "Boong" is a family movie dedicated to love, friendship, and peace in Manipur. The film tells the story of Brojendro aka Boong, a boy longing for his father, Joykumar, who left to work in Moreh, a town bordering Burma/Myanmar. When Boong's uncle and aunt try to declare his father dead, Boong refuses to believe it and embarks on a dangerous journey to find him, believing that bringing his father back would be the greatest gift to his mother, Mandakini.
The film explores Manipur's deeper cultural, political, and regional tensions. It touches on serious issues such as classism and racism. Boong faces bullying for not knowing as much English, and Raju and his father, Sudhir, are ridiculed for being outsiders. The film also addresses the conflict between India and Myanmar, media censorship, and the Revolutionary Socialist Party. Despite these serious themes, "Boong" maintains a playful tone and big heart.
Reviewers have praised "Boong" for its nuanced coming-of-age story and its ability to address important issues without losing its sense of humor and warmth. The performances of the young cast, particularly Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam, have been highlighted as phenomenal and impressive. The film has been lauded for its natural and authentic direction, capturing the essence of childhood.
"Boong" has been recognized at various film festivals, including the 2nd Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival 2025. The film has received praise for its depiction of maternal resilience and socio-political unrest in Manipur.
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) is the largest festival of its kind in Australia, showcasing the best of Indian cinema, from Bollywood blockbusters to regional films. IFFM aims to foster closer ties between India and Australia by providing a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work to an international audience. The festival includes film screenings, live events, and awards. The IFFM Awards Night will be held on August 15, 2025, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).
