Panaji (Goa), November 16 – Two highly anticipated ZEE5 Originals, ‘Despatch’ starring Manoj Bajpayee and ‘Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri’, directed by Pradeep Maddali, have been selected for screening at the prestigious 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024 in Goa.
About the Films
Despatch:
Directed by Kanu Behl, Despatch delves into the life of investigative journalist Joy, portrayed by Manoj Bajpayee, as he navigates the murky waters of media corruption, personal dilemmas, and high-stakes power struggles. The film also stars Shahana Goswami and Arrchita Agarwaal in pivotal roles, offering a gritty exploration of the darker side of journalism.
Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri:
Directed by Pradeep Maddali, this detective thriller is set in 1970s Telangana. It follows Ramakrishna (played by Naresh Agastya) as he investigates a mysterious phenomenon in the Nallamalla Forest, where villagers inexplicably lose their memories. The series blends history, suspense, and politics, with Megha Akash playing Princess Lakshmi, adding layers of intrigue and cultural depth.
Directors’ Reactions
Kanu Behl, director of Despatch, expressed his excitement, saying:
“We are absolutely thrilled to take Despatch to IFFI and screen it among film lovers. There’s no better feeling than receiving authentic feedback from passionate festival-goers. It’s my first time at IFFI, and I’m looking forward to attending.”
Pradeep Maddali, director of Vikkatakavi, also shared his enthusiasm:
“I’m beyond excited to have Vikkatakavi premiere at IFFI—it’s truly a great honor for any director to showcase their work on such a prestigious platform. This story, rooted in Telangana’s rich cultural history, is something I’m immensely proud of. Our collaboration with ZEE5 has been deeply rewarding, and I can’t wait to present it to a global audience.”
Screening Schedule
- Despatch: Special presentation on November 21
- Vikkatakavi: World premiere on November 23
The festival, taking place from November 20 to 28, will celebrate these films alongside other exceptional cinematic works from across the globe.
