Amidst the buzz over whether RRR or Kashmir files will enter the Oscars 2023, Gujarati film Chhello Show beats them to become India’s official entry for the 95^th Academy Awards in the category for Best International Feature Film.

The announcement was made by the apex body of film industry in India, Film Federation of India Secretary General Suparn Sen on Tuesday after discussing with jury members headed by expert Kannada director T.S. Nagabharana.

The Gujarati film, Chhello Show which literally means 'Last Film Show' is directed by Pan Nalin and is a semi-autobiographical Gujarati drama had its world premiere at Robert DeNiro’s Tribeca Film Festival in June last year as the opening film.

The film has already won many awards like the Golden Spike At the 66^th Valladolid Film Fesival in Spain. The film produced by Siddharth Roy Kapur, Pan Nalin, Dheer Momaya and Mark Duale stars Bhavin Rabari, Bhavesh Shrimali, Richa Meena, Dipen Raval and Paresh Mehta.

According to Variety magazine, the story revolves around a nine-year-old boy Samay, whose life completely changed after watching his first movie. The story is about how Samay passionately falls in love with films even if his father was against it. The young boy then makes a deal with Fazal, the projectionist, who lets Samay watch movies for free in exchange for Samay’s lunchbox. Their food-for-films deal turns into an endearing friendship, but heartbreaking choices lie ahead.

Director Nalin on the news of his movie entering the Academy Awards 2023 said, “I could have never imagined such a day would come and bring light and celebration of light. ‘Chhello Show’ has been enjoying love from around the world but there was an ache in my heart that how do I make India discover it? Now I can breathe again and believe in cinema that entertains, inspires and enlightens. Thank you FFI, Thank you Jury.”

On the other hand, producer Siddhart Roy Kapur said “We are thrilled and honored that our film, ‘Last Film Show’ has been selected to represent India at the Academy Awards. There could not be a more apt time for a film like this one that celebrates the magic and wonder of cinema and the theatrical experience. When cinema-going around the world has been disrupted by a pandemic, it reminds audiences anew of the first time they fell in love with the experience of watching a movie in a darkened cinema hall. It is a matter of great pride for us to represent our country with this film, and with the backing of our partners Samuel Goldwyn Films and Orange Studio, we will make sure that we give it our best shot at the Academy Awards.’

Chhello Show is going to release in the theatres on October 14 across the nation but on select screens.

The 95^th Academy Awards aka Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at Los Angeles’ Dolby Theatre, announced the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences and ABC.