The cinematic journey of ‘To Kill a Tiger’ has been one of critical acclaim and significant recognition on the global stage. Directed and scripted by New Delhi-born filmmaker Nisha Pahuja, the film made its debut at the esteemed Toronto International Film Festival, where it captivated audiences and critics alike with its poignant narrative.
At the 2023 Palm Springs International Film Festival, ‘To Kill a Tiger’ earned the prestigious title of Best Documentary, further solidifying its status as a standout piece of non-fiction storytelling. Notably, the film secured an Oscar nomination for ‘Best Feature Documentary,’ a remarkable feat considering its lack of prior distribution.
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The 127-minute documentary delves into the harrowing tale of Ranjit, a father residing in rural India, whose relentless quest for justice unfolds after his teenage daughter becomes the victim of a horrific crime. Through powerful storytelling and emotional depth, ‘To Kill a Tiger’ confronts social injustices and sparks vital conversations about systemic issues prevalent in contemporary society.
Critics, including Variety’s film critic Siddhant Adlakha, have lauded the film for its boldness and cultural significance. Adlakha commended the documentary for its portrayal of modern nonfiction filmmaking in South Asia, noting its contribution to filling narrative gaps often overlooked by mainstream Indian cinema.
The acquisition of ‘To Kill a Tiger’ by Netflix marks a significant milestone in the streaming platform’s efforts to diversify its documentary offerings. Amidst a resurgence in indie documentary acquisitions, Netflix actively pursued the film during the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, signalling its commitment to supporting independent filmmakers and compelling storytelling.
Noteworthy executive producers, including Mindy Kaling, Dev Patel, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, have lent their support to the project, recognizing its potential to affect meaningful change and amplify critical voices. Pahuja’s deliberate decision to involve celebrities in the project underscores the film’s broader mission to raise awareness and provoke tangible societal shifts.
-Sushmita Sarkar