Is Assam’s Indo-Israeli Feature Film Set to Shine at the Pune Film Festival?
Synopsis
The Indo-Israeli film 'Murders Too Close – Love Too Far', co-directed by Manju Borah and Dan Wolman, will showcase at the Pune International Film Festival 2026. This milestone for Assamese cinema highlights the global appeal of local narratives. The film features a gripping murder investigation intertwined with deep personal relationships, showcasing the region’s cinematic talent.
Key Takeaways
First international co-production in Assamese cinema.
Local Assamese crew contributed to the film's production.
The film explores complex psychological themes .
Screening at PIFF highlights the growing visibility of Assamese cinema.
Collaboration between local and international filmmakers enhances storytelling .
Guwahati, Jan 8 (NationPress) The Indo–Israeli feature film 'Murders Too Close – Love Too Far', co-directed by renowned Assamese filmmaker Manju Borah and Israeli director Dan Wolman, has received an official nod for screening at the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) 2026 in the Global Cinema section, as stated in an official announcement on Thursday.
The film is scheduled to be shown at the festival on January 17 and January 19.
Confirming this achievement, co-director Dan Wolman expressed his excitement, stating, “I am thrilled to announce that our film will be showcased at the Pune International Film Festival on January 19.”
This film represents a pivotal moment for the Assamese film industry, marking it as the first international co-production pairing an Assamese production with a foreign studio, with backing from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting of the Union government.
Importantly, the entire film was filmed in Assam, utilizing a local Assamese crew, showcasing the region's expanding technical and creative capabilities in international cinematic ventures.
Co-produced by Manju Borah, Amir Gedalia, and Dan Wolman, the 108-minute crime drama features performances by Siddharth Nipon Goswami, Shaminn Mannan, Seema Biswas, Bhagirathi Bai Kadam, and Adil Hussain.
The screenplay is a collaborative effort between Manju Borah and Dan Wolman, with cinematography by Partha Borgohain, editing by Eyal Amir, sound design by Debajit Gayan, and music by Sanket Joshi.
Set in the environment of a rural police station, the narrative centers on senior CBI officer Ram Chaudhary, who is tasked with investigating the savage murders of two policemen. As he delves deeper, he meets Gita, a talented artist whose works reflect mob psychology and collective behavior.
As their bond intensifies, the case becomes even more complex with additional murders, weaving personal emotions into the procedural investigation, culminating in a breathtaking revelation.
Discussing the partnership, Manju Borah emphasized that this project illustrates the growing international appeal of Assamese cinema, showcasing how local narratives can resonate with global audiences through compelling storytelling and technical prowess.
“Being selected for PIFF is a significant achievement, not only for our film but for Assamese cinema as a whole. This project demonstrates that stories from Assam can gain visibility on global platforms when supported by robust collaboration and local talent,” she stated.
Dan Wolman, known for his internationally acclaimed films such as 'Hide and Seek', 'Precious Life', and 'Judas', brings a wealth of global filmmaking experience.
He was also awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 49th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 2018 for his contributions to cinema.
National Award-winning filmmaker Manju Borah is celebrated for her culturally rich films that address social, indigenous, and women-centric themes. Their collaboration merges international storytelling techniques with strong regional authenticity.
Regarding the production experience, cinematographer Partha Borgohain remarked, “Working with an international team while being grounded in local settings and practices was creatively fulfilling. I am grateful for this opportunity.”
The film's selection and screening at PIFF is anticipated to enhance Assam's presence on the global cinematic landscape, encouraging more international collaborations deeply rooted in the region.
This project exemplifies that tales from Assam, alongside its artists and technical professionals, can secure a place on international stages when backed by strong creative collaboration, sufficient financial support, and ongoing government assistance.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of 'Murders Too Close – Love Too Far' as it represents a new chapter for Assamese cinema on the global stage. This collaboration not only enriches the cultural tapestry of India but also invites international audiences to engage with local narratives, showcasing the power of storytelling transcending borders.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the film 'Murders Too Close – Love Too Far' about?
The film centers around senior CBI officer Ram Chaudhary, investigating the brutal murders of two policemen, intertwined with personal relationships and deeper psychological themes.
Who are the key filmmakers involved in this project?
The film is co-directed by acclaimed Assamese filmmaker Manju Borah and Israeli director Dan Wolman.
When will the film be screened at PIFF?
The film is scheduled to be screened on January 17 and January 19 at the Pune International Film Festival 2026.
What does this film signify for Assamese cinema?
This film marks a significant milestone as the first international co-production involving an Assamese production and a foreign production house, showcasing regional talent on a global platform.
What is the runtime of the film?
The film has a runtime of 108 minutes.
