Despite its strong narrative and acclaim, Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies misses out on the Oscars shortlist as other global contenders rise to the spotlight.
December 18, 2024: Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies, India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, has failed to make the shortlist. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences unveiled the official selections in 10 key categories ahead of the prestigious Oscars ceremony, leaving Rao’s rural comedy-drama out of the final race.
Also Read: Aamir Khan on Laapataa Ladies’ Oscar Dream: “India Would Go Ballistic If We Win”
Produced by Aamir Khan Productions, Kindling Pictures, and Jio Studios, the film premiered in theaters on March 1, 2024, and features standout performances by Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Ravi Kishan, and Chhaya Kadam.
About Laapataa Ladies
Set in rural India, the film follows the comedic yet poignant story of two young brides accidentally swapped on a train, leading to a journey of self-discovery, misadventures, and social commentary.
Also Read: Ananth Mahadevan on ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Plagiarism Row: ‘It Cannot Be a Coincidence…
Box Office Performance
According to Sacnilk.com, Laapataa Ladies earned ₹20.58 crore domestically during its 13-week theatrical run. Combined with ₹2.75 crore from overseas markets, the film achieved a worldwide gross of ₹27.06 crore. Made on a modest budget of approximately ₹5 crore, the film was both critically acclaimed and a financial success.
Also Read: Chaos and Charm: ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Delivers Delightful Drama
Oscars Campaign and International Push
To build momentum for the Oscars, the film’s team, including director Kiran Rao and producer Aamir Khan, launched an international campaign. A London screening took place recently, and the film was rebranded as Lost Ladies to cater to global audiences, highlighting the universal themes of identity and empowerment.
Aamir Khan’s History at the Oscars
Aamir Khan remains one of the few Indian producers with an Oscar legacy. His iconic film Lagaan (2002) was the last Indian entry to secure a nomination for Best International Feature Film. While Rang De Basanti (2006) and Taare Zameen Par (2007) also represented India, neither made it to the final list.
Shortlisted Films for the International Feature Film Category
Here are the global films that made the Oscars shortlist for 2025:
- Brazil: I’m Still Here
- Canada: Universal Language
- Czech Republic: Waves
- Denmark: The Girl with the Needle
- France: Emilia Pérez
- Germany: The Seed of the Sacred Fig
- Iceland: Touch
- Ireland: Kneecap
- Italy: Vermiglio
- Latvia: Flow
- Norway: Armand
- Palestine: From Ground Zero
- Senegal: Dahomey
- Thailand: How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies
- United Kingdom: Santosh
As the Oscars race heats up, these films represent the best of international storytelling, showcasing themes of identity, loss, resilience, and culture from across the globe.
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