One of the standout success stories in Indian cinema for 2024 is undoubtedly Manjummel Boys, directed by writer-filmmaker Chidambaram. Released earlier this year, the film became a massive hit, drawing packed audiences not only in Kerala but also across several regions outside the state. It quickly ascended the ranks to become one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time.

Adding another accolade to its success, Manjummel Boys is set to compete in the inaugural KinoBravo Film Festival in Russia. Notably, it is the only Indian film selected for the competition section, where it will stand alongside international hits such as How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies (Thailand), Fossil (Iran), and Hans Crosses the Rubicon (South Africa).

The film is based on a true story, centered around a group of friends who defy all odds to save a companion who falls into the treacherous Devil’s Kitchen, also known as the Gunaa Caves, in Kodaikanal. The survival drama captures the resilience and bond of friendship, resonating strongly with audiences, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where it became an unexpected blockbuster of 2024.

Apart from Manjummel Boys, Indian representation at KinoBravo is notable, with Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine as Light and SS Rajamouli’s RRR set to be screened in the Out of Competition categories: Festival Hits and Blockbuster Hits, respectively. Indian filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj also serves as one of the jury members. Manjummel Boys will be screened on October 1 at the festival, which runs from September 30 to October 4 in Sochi, Russia.