Mumba Devi Motion Pictures’ “I’m Not an Actor” Set for Global Premiere

Mumba Devi Motion Pictures is set to unveil its latest cinematic endeavor, “I’m Not an Actor” (originally titled “Main Actor Nahin Hoon”), with a world premiere scheduled for the prestigious 2025 Cinequest Film Festival, taking place in California this March. The film features renowned actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Chitrangada Satarupa, promising a unique narrative that explores the nuances of human connection in an increasingly digital world.

Plot Overview and Unique Filming Technique

This Hindi and English-language drama, skillfully directed by Aditya Kripalani, revolves around a frustrated yet puritanical actor based in Mumbai. The narrative unfolds over a single day, focusing on his interactions with a depressed, recently retired banker in Frankfurt, facilitated through video calls. One of the film’s most interesting aspects is its innovative production method; the film was shot simultaneously in both India and Germany across a span of 28 days. This involved both lead actors performing their scenes live via video calls, all amidst challenging weather conditions and a significant 4.5-hour time difference between the locations.

Authenticity in Storytelling

Director Aditya Kripalani emphasized the importance of capturing authentic interactions during video calls to elevate the film’s emotional depth. He explained, “The film has a conversation that runs through a single day across two countries on a video call. Somehow, in real life, when a conversation is happening on a video call, if it’s intense, we almost forget that a screen is involved.” By shooting both actors simultaneously, Kripalani aimed to replicate this authenticity, with one production team stationed in Frankfurt and another in Mumbai.

Thematic Depth

As the narrative unfolds, Kripalani delves deep into the themes of human connection and the limitations imposed by societal labels. He articulates a fundamental truth: “Labelling someone makes us feel at ease because it gives this false idea that we have understood someone.” The film seeks to illustrate how such labels create barriers, obscuring the deeper similarities that exist among people at their core. This philosophical underpinning adds an enriching layer to the storyline, making it more than just a surface-level drama.

Actor Perspectives and Challenges

For Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who also acts as a producer through his Side Hero Entertainment, the role offered an exciting and novel opportunity. He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The idea of me playing a banker who learns acting was exciting from the start.” Siddiqui found the project’s unique premise and Kripalani’s exploration of the craft compelling, making it a script that resonated with him personally.

However, the ambitious production came with its own set of challenges. Siddiqui reflected on the arduous conditions, noting the stark contrasts between locations: “While I was freezing at 2 degrees [in Frankfurt], in India sometimes due to extreme heat the cameras would overheat, and we’d have to stop shoot for hours.” This diagonal climate dichotomy required meticulous coordination and adaptability from both production teams.

Production Insights from Satarupa

Chitrangada Satarupa, who filmed her segments in Mumbai, shared her thoughts on the demanding yet rewarding experience. She described the shooting process as “both demanding and fulfilling,” requiring her to balance logistical complexities while staying true to her character. The challenges of shooting in intense Mumbai heat, sometimes in guerrilla-style settings, added to the overall complexity of the project.

Future Releases and Social Consciousness

Following its global premiere, producer Sweta Chhabria has confirmed aspirations for subsequent theatrical releases across Europe, the U.K., and Asia. The production team is also planning a limited theatrical release in India, followed by a debut on streaming platforms. “I’m Not an Actor” is yet another socially conscious feature from Mumba Devi Motion Pictures, which previously earned accolades such as the Netpac Award for “Devi Aur Hero” (2019) and the Fipresci Prize for “Not Today” (2021).

Conclusion

In summary, “I’m Not an Actor” promises an original cinematic experience that artfully navigates the complexities of modern communication while questioning the superficial labels society often places on individuals. With its unique filming approach and thought-provoking themes, the film is set to resonate with a wide audience when it premieres at the Cinequest Film Festival in March 2025.

FAQs

What is the genre of “I’m Not an Actor”?

The film is a drama that features a blend of Hindi and English dialogue.

Who are the lead actors in the film?

The lead roles are portrayed by Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Chitrangada Satarupa.

When and where will the world premiere occur?

The film will have its world premiere at the 2025 Cinequest Film Festival in California in March.

What themes does the film explore?

It explores themes of human connection, societal labels, and the emotional depth of interactions in a digital age.

Will “I’m Not an Actor” be released in theaters?

Yes, there are plans for a limited theatrical release in India, as well as other premieres across Europe, the U.K., and Asia.