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Varun Grover’s directorial debut dives into the “MIT of India”
‘All India Rank’ had its world premiere at the 2024 International Film Festival Rotterdam
Set in Kota’s coaching culture, ‘All India Rank’ unfolds the life of an IIT aspirant / @varungrover
Indian screenwriter, lyricist, and comedian Varun Grover attempted his first directorial stunt with ‘All India Rank.’ It became the first-ever Indian film to close at the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2024 in 52 years.
Set in Kota, India, the movie’s synopsis reads, “Set in the late 1990s, All India Rank is a slice-of-life dramedy about 17-year-old Vivek who is sent away from home to a prep school to prepare for the highly competitive IIT (“the MIT of India") entrance examination.”
The film explores the intensity and harsh reality behind the exam preparation. It also serves as a mirror of the cultural backdrop of the 1990s liberalized India.
Grover’s semi-autobiographical lens shows the life of Indian adolescents and the societal expectations tied to academic achievements. The film showcases the journey of not only of the protagonist but also of his parents as it explores the clash between parental expectations and individual aspirations, making it a relatable narrative for many.
The film boasts a talented cast, including Bodhisattva Sharma, Shashi Bhushan, and Samta Sudiksha. The crew includes cinematographer Archana Ghangrekar and editor Sanyukta Kaza.
Grover received the Best Lyricist award at the National Film Awards for ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’. In addition, he served as the lyricist for Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ I and II, 2015’s hit ‘Masaan,’ and ‘RRR’ among others. He recently completed his world tour of ‘Aisi Taisi Democracy,’ a satirical standup comedy show.
The film premiered at the IFFR 2024 on February 6 and is set to release in Indian theatres on February 23.
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