Jammu, April 12: A powerful cinematic creation from Jammu is making its mark on the global stage. ‘Stage’, a Hindi-language film interwoven with references to Dogri, has been officially selected for the Robinson Film Festival in Italy and has received nominations in three major categories—best experimental film, best actor and best costume.
A statement issued here said that, produced and directed by Kartikey Sehgal, the film features a cast and crew entirely from Jammu, underscoring the region’s growing presence in independent cinema. The lead role is portrayed by acclaimed theatre veteran Naveen Chopra, who is also a nominee for best actor at the festival. He is joined by fellow veteran Vageesh Sharma, along with promising newcomers Komal Soni, Zerish Firdous, Tamanna, Seema Katoch and Avnish Sharma.
Noted violinist and sound engineer Amarjeet Jandhu has lensed the film, while Wickki Koul managed the editing and colour grading, lending the film its distinctive aesthetic. The film delves into the complex realm of human ego and mental health, drawing praise for its restrained yet powerful storytelling. Jammu-based orthopaedician Dr Vikas Padha described it as “a deep and impactful film about an issue we all face—our ego,” and commended its “subtle depiction of mental disorders without exaggeration.” Similarly, Advocate Jasmeet Singh, known for his philosophical talks, lauded the film’s intricate screenplay and meticulous attention to detail, calling it “a narrative that challenges the mind.”
Stage has also received an Honourable Mention at another film festival in Italy under the Best Experimental Film category. Additionally, it has been officially selected for an Independent Film Festival in Lahore, further cementing its cross-border appeal. The film is set to be showcased through select screenings in Mumbai starting June, introducing a broader audience to Jammu’s rich artistic potential.
