India’s official entry to the 97th Academy Awards, Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, is officially out of the race for the Best International Feature Film category. The film, which garnered critical acclaim upon its release, failed to secure a spot in the recently announced shortlist of 15 films by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).
1. Oscars 2025: Latest Updates
The Academy announced the shortlists for 10 categories for the upcoming 97th Oscars ceremony on Wednesday morning. Among the top contenders are Netflix’s Emilia Pérez and Universal Pictures’ Wicked, which are positioned firmly for further consideration.
International Films Making the Shortlist
Notably, British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri’s film Santosh, which stars Indian actors Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar, made it to the coveted shortlist representing the UK. Other notable entries include:
- Emilia Pérez (France)
- I’m Still Here (Brazil)
- Universal Language (Canada)
- Waves (Czech Republic)
- The Girl with the Needle (Denmark)
- The Seed of the Sacred Fig (Germany)
Additionally, Ireland’s Kneecap has achieved recognition, shortlisted for two Academy Award nominations.
2. About Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies
Plot Summary
Set in rural India in the early 2000s, Laapataa Ladies is a heartfelt feminist drama that highlights social themes in an engaging and accessible manner. Written by Sneha Desai, the film revolves around two brides who are accidentally swapped during a train ride on their wedding day.
- Lead Cast: Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastav
- Genre: Drama, Feminist Social Commentary
Critical Reception
Laapataa Ladies earned widespread critical acclaim following its world premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It was praised for its strong storyline, nuanced direction, and relatable characters. Upon its theatrical release on March 1, 2024, the film struck a chord with both audiences and critics, further solidifying Kiran Rao’s prowess as a storyteller.
Production and Backing
The film is backed by powerhouse production companies:
- Kindling Productions (Kiran Rao’s banner)
- Aamir Khan Productions
- Jio Studios (Jyoti Deshpande)
3. India’s Oscar Entry: The Selection Process
In September 2024, the Film Federation of India (FFI) unanimously selected Laapataa Ladies as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. The film was chosen from a competitive list of 29 entries, which included:
- Bollywood blockbuster Animal
- Malayalam National Award winner Aattam
- Cannes-winning All We Imagine As Light
The selection of Laapataa Ladies was widely celebrated, marking a significant milestone in Indian cinema’s representation on the global stage.
4. Where and When to Watch the Oscars 2025
While Laapataa Ladies may no longer be in the race, the 97th Academy Awards ceremony remains highly anticipated. Here are the details:
- Date: March 2, 2025
- Final Nominations Announcement: January 17, 2025
- Broadcast: Available for free on ABC (7 PM to 10 PM ET).
- Streaming Options: Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV
5. Why Laapataa Ladies Stood Out
Social Themes
The film resonated deeply with audiences for its portrayal of women’s struggles and empowerment in a patriarchal society. Its relatable narrative blended humor, poignancy, and cultural authenticity, making it an exceptional cinematic experience.
Kiran Rao’s Vision
Kiran Rao’s directorial brilliance brought to life an intricate story of identity, resilience, and hope. Her ability to shed light on rural India’s social landscape with empathy and realism earned the film international acclaim.
Global Recognition
The film’s premiere at TIFF opened new avenues for Indian cinema, emphasizing the growing influence of Indian filmmakers on the global platform.
6. What’s Next for Laapataa Ladies?
While the film did not make it to the Oscars shortlist, its journey has already carved a special place in contemporary Indian cinema. With its strong international presence and critical appreciation, Laapataa Ladies is expected to continue captivating audiences worldwide through film festivals and streaming platforms.
Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies may be out of the Oscars race, but its impact as a poignant feminist drama remains undeniable. The film’s critical success underscores the rising potential of Indian cinema in telling globally relevant stories. Although the 97th Academy Awards will feature other international contenders, Laapataa Ladies stands as a testament to India’s evolving storytelling prowess and its cultural representation on the world stage.
FAQs
1. Why did Laapataa Ladies not make it to the Oscars shortlist?
The Academy did not include the film in the final 15 shortlisted features for the Best International Feature Film category.
2. What is Laapataa Ladies about?
It is a feminist drama about two brides who are accidentally swapped during a train ride on their wedding day.
3. Who directed Laapataa Ladies?
The film is directed by Kiran Rao, known for her previous work on Dhobi Ghat.
4. When will the 97th Academy Awards take place?
The Oscars ceremony will be held on March 2, 2025, with nominations announced on January 17, 2025.
5. How can I watch the Oscars 2025?
You can watch it live on ABC or stream it on platforms like Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV.
