Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s ‘I’m Not an Actor’ to Screen at Cinequest Film Festival

The innovative intercontinental drama breaks barriers with live shoots across India and Germany

Mumbai, January 24: Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s latest cinematic venture, I’m Not an Actor, is set to make waves internationally as it secures a screening slot at the prestigious 2025 Cinequest Film Festival in California. The film, directed by Aditya Kripalani, will be showcased in March, adding another feather to the actor’s illustrious cap.

A Unique Filmmaking Experience

Director Aditya Kripalani took to Instagram to share insights into the groundbreaking process of making the film. Shot live across two countries—India and Germany—Kripalani managed to synchronize shoots in Mumbai and Frankfurt using just two iPads.

“The truth shall set you free. Shot live between two countries, with two terrific actors—@nawazuddin._siddiqui and @chitrangadasatarupa. One crew in Mumbai, the other in Frankfurt. Matching sunlight, time, and continuity while I directed using two iPads… Quite an experience,” Kripalani wrote.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Perspective

Not only does Siddiqui headline the project, but he also serves as a producer under his banner, Side Hero Entertainment. The actor described his enthusiasm for the role of a banker learning acting, calling the script unique and exciting.

“The idea of me playing a banker who learns acting was exciting from the start. I’d never heard of a script like this. It seemed like the right kind of project to come on board with. Especially since Aditya has explored so much about the craft of acting in the film,” said Siddiqui in a press statement.

Challenges of Intercontinental Shoots

Filming across continents presented its own set of challenges. While Siddiqui braved freezing temperatures of 2 degrees Celsius in Frankfurt, the crew in India contended with extreme heat that caused camera malfunctions, halting production for hours.

A Stellar Cast

The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Chitrangada Satarupa, Naveen Kasturia, Ayushi Gupta, Yasir Iftikhar Khan, Meenakshi Arundhati, and Vibhawari Deshpande, who bring depth and authenticity to this innovative project.

Takeaway:
With its groundbreaking live-shoot concept and Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s compelling performance, I’m Not an Actor promises to leave an indelible mark at the Cinequest Film Festival. The film highlights the boundless possibilities of storytelling, pushing creative and technical boundaries.