Double Standards, Gowariker Praised ‘The Goat Life’: Blessy on National Award Snub
The 68th National Film Awards, announced recently, has been met with a mix of reactions from the film fraternity. While some films have been celebrated, others have been left disappointed and even confused. One such instance is the snub faced by ‘The Goat Life’, directed by Blessy, which was expected to receive recognition. However, despite being a critically acclaimed film, it failed to impress the National Awards jury. In an interview, Blessy spoke about the disappointment and pointed out the “double standards” he observed during the selection process.
‘The Goat Life’, a Malayalam film, is an adaptation of Benyamin’s novel of the same name. The film tells the story of a group of friends who embark on a journey to find a new life, leaving behind their troubled past. The film received widespread critical acclaim for its unique storytelling, cinematography, and performances. However, when the National Awards nominations were announced, ‘The Goat Life’ was nowhere to be found. The director, Blessy, expressed his disappointment and felt that the film was overlooked despite being one of the best films of the year.
In an interview with The Indian Express, Blessy spoke about the snub and revealed that the jury’s chairperson, Ashutosh Gowariker, had praised the film earlier. “I remember [Gowariker] appreciating the film deeply during our conversation,” Blessy said. The director pointed out the “double standards” he observed during the selection process. “If someone appreciated the film in such detail, how can they now dismiss it on technical grounds?” he asked.
Blessy’s comments have sparked a debate about the National Awards selection process. Many have questioned the credibility of the jury and the criteria used to select the winners. The director’s statement has also raised questions about the role of personal biases and opinions in the decision-making process.
Gowariker’s appreciation for ‘The Goat Life’ is not the only instance of praise the film has received. ‘The Goat Life’ has been praised by critics and audiences alike for its unique storytelling and cinematography. The film has also won several awards at various film festivals, including the Kerala Film Critics Association Awards and the Asian Film Awards.
The National Awards snub has left many in the film industry disappointed and confused. Many have questioned the relevance and credibility of the awards in the current film landscape. The controversy has also raised questions about the selection process and the criteria used to select the winners.
In the past, the National Awards have been criticized for their inconsistency and bias. The selection process has been questioned, and many have accused the jury of favoring certain films or filmmakers over others. The controversy surrounding ‘The Goat Life’ is just the latest example of the National Awards’ reputation for being unpredictable and sometimes unfair.
Despite the controversy, ‘The Goat Life’ continues to receive critical acclaim and recognition. The film has been praised for its unique storytelling, cinematography, and performances. The director, Blessy, is known for his unique storytelling style and his ability to tackle complex themes. The film is a testament to his skill and creativity as a filmmaker.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding ‘The Goat Life’ and the National Awards snub has raised important questions about the selection process and the criteria used to select the winners. Blessy’s comments have sparked a debate about the credibility of the jury and the role of personal biases and opinions in the decision-making process. The controversy has also raised questions about the relevance and credibility of the National Awards in the current film landscape.
As the film industry continues to evolve and change, it is essential to re-evaluate the National Awards and their selection process. The controversy surrounding ‘The Goat Life’ is a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in the film industry. By addressing these issues, we can ensure that the National Awards remain a respected and relevant recognition of excellence in Indian cinema.
