Liar’s Dice wins India's Oscar entry

The Hindi road drama film is written and directed by actor-turned-director Geethu. The film starring Geetanjali Thapa and Nawazuddin Siddiqui has enjoyed considerable attention in film festivals, both national and international. It had won the Best Actress Award for Thapa and the Best Cinematography for Rajeev Ravi at the National Film Awards. Liar’s Dice was also the only Asian entry in World Cinema Dramatic competition section at the Sundance Film Festival 2014.

When contacted, happiness was evident in Geethu’s voice. The elated director says, “I’m really feeling good. The hard work and perseverance of the cast and crew has paid off. And being a director of the film, I am really proud at the moment. I was excited when the film was in the nomination list itself.”

When quizzed about her husband Rajeev Ravi’s reaction about the Oscar entry, Geethu chuckles and says, “Rajeev is a cool person and he just smiled hearing the news. We are rejoicing as a team. Many have called and congratulated us. When I called Nawazuddin Siddiqui to share the news, he was so excited.”

Liar’s Dice was the unanimous choice of the 12-member jury headed by eminent filmmaker T. Hariharan, from over 30 entries. The other films in the fray were Shahid, Queen, Mary Kom, Mardaani, 2 States, Fandry, Yellow etc.

In the past, three Indian films, Mother India, Salaam Bombay and Lagaan, have been nominated before to the category for Oscars. But none came home with the statuette.