Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Kohima: Naga filmmaker Theja Rio secured the top honor at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival on Sunday, September 20. His feature debut, Angh, claimed the Platform Prize. The award includes a trophy and a CAD 20,000 cash prize. It also grants the film direct eligibility for the International Feature Film category at the Oscars.
The Platform jury, led by Argentine filmmaker Pablo Trapero, praised the work for its refreshing perspective and bold direction. The panel included Amma Asante, Sylvia Chang, Luc Déry, and Albert Lee. The jury specifically commended Rio for his vision, audacity, and courage. Rio expressed his gratitude to his team, family, and partner, Andrea, during his acceptance speech.
Set in 1960s Nagaland, the story centers on a Konyak chief and his son. They face cultural erasure when an American missionary arrives. Cinematographer Adam Pietkiewicz shot the film on 16mm. Pietkiewicz also earned the Toronto International Film Festival Variety Artisan Award for his craft. The film was produced by Nancy Nisa Beso and Rio. Jungle Book Studio holds the international and domestic distribution rights.
Rio dedicated the win to his homeland, people, and culture. He said, “It is a very special moment for me and for everyone associated with the film.” Beso noted the long journey, stating the team fought to tell the story on their own terms. Angh was one of 12 entries in the festival's only juried competition.
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