This Article is From Feb 19, 2016

Chennai Techie Wins USA's Prestigious Remi Award For Debut Film

Chennai Techie Wins USA's Prestigious Remi Award For Debut Film

This image was posted on Facebook by Arun Chidambaram

Chennai: Chennai-based techie Arun Chidambaram's debut Tamil film, Kanavu Variyam, has won USA's prestigious Remi Award which recognizes excellence in independent films and filmmaking.

The film will have its world premiere at the 49th WorldFest Houston International Film Festival in April, which is also when Arun will receive the award. A movie buff and self-learner, Arun had given up a lucrative job in the USA to pursue his passion for films.

Arun said the film largely dealt with the subject of power cuts in rural Tamil Nadu, an issue that rocked the state till a year ago. The film has won more laurels too. It has won the Special Jury Award at the National Science Festival. The song Kalla Manna has been accepted for screening at the "Bare Bones International and Music Festival" at Oklahoma, USA.

The filmmaker says the song showcases 51 traditional games of rural India.

The Remi Award has the distinction of recognising great talent and Arun is in good company. Previous recipients include George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, the Coen Brothers and Ang Lee.

Arun said, "We never expected this. It's a great recognition. It's purely by merit".

Film lovers in India may have to wait to watch this Tamil film on their home turf where it is likely to release only after the April world premiere. The film's co-producer and Arun's brother Karthik Chidambaram said, "We are strategising. Critical acclaim internationally could give us a good opening back home". Arun's father is veteran body builder and physical culturist Dr A Chidambaram.

Kanavu Variyam co-stars Jiya as Arun's leading lady. Shyam Benjamin has scored the music.
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