Internet Outcry Against FFI
Laapataa Ladies was chosen as India’s official entry for the Oscars earlier this year, but the decision had already sparked some debate, as many felt that All We Imagine As Light, a Cannes-winning film by Payal Kapadia, was a more deserving candidate. Following Laapataa Ladies’ exclusion from the shortlist, discussions reignited. One tweet expressed dissatisfaction: “FFI snubbed AWIAL, destroying our chances to be on the list. The Film Federation of India requires a full revamp. The current members should step down and let those who truly understand cinema take over.” Another user commented, “Guess what is missing or laapata from the Oscars shortlist? A future lesson for that confederacy of dunces at the Film Federation of India committee – an Oscar campaign for your beloved desi film can’t start in October. All We Imagine As Light had a direct path to an Oscar nod.”
FFI’s Troubling Record
The Film Federation of India, an independent body responsible for selecting India’s official entry to the Oscars, has faced criticism for its choices in recent years, which have often resulted in disappointing outcomes at the Academy Awards. Many have called for its dissolution due to these ongoing issues. One film enthusiast posted, “Film Federation of India does it again; the cinema lovers of India should protest.” Another added, “A shattering humiliation for India. A calamitous defeat for the Film Federation that was predictable. If making competitive choices is the goal, they have utterly failed. FFI needs an overhaul, and personnel changes are necessary.”
