One screening cost us a whopping Rs 40-45 lakhs! Oscars is a dangerous dream: Blessy | VIDEO

Malayali audiences are celebrating after the Malayalam film Aadujeevitham, starring Prithviraj and directed by Blessy, was shortlisted for the 97th Academy Awards' preliminary consideration list. Traditionally, films from Asia are typically considered under the Foreign Language Film category at the Oscars. However, this time, a Malayalam film has been included in the General Entry category, a great achievement for the regional industry.

Blessy discussed the challenges of taking a regional Malayalam film to the prestigious Oscars during an interactive session on Club FM's Game Changers of 2024. He also talked about the ongoing promotional activities for the Oscars.

"Thinking about the Oscars from our regional language itself is quite dangerous," Blessy remarked. "I’ve realised that there are very few people with a clear understanding of this process. The expenses involved are enormous."

He further elaborated, saying that only about 40 people attended the first screening in Los Angeles, and just three or four of them were Academy members. "The cost for that one screening alone was $40,000. After one screening, the expenses can easily reach 40 to 45 lakh rupees. This is something we cannot afford, let alone dream of," Blessy said.

He also highlighted the difficulties in reaching Academy members. "We’ve conducted several screenings in places like LA, New York, and San Francisco. It’s important to show the film to Academy members, but when only 40 people show up, just three or four are actual members. The other day, we did a screening in Chennai, but it was just for three members," he added.

Despite the considerable hurdles, the film’s consideration for the Oscars is a proud moment for Malayalam cinema, and Blessy’s candid reflections underscore the tough road ahead for any regional film aiming for such global recognition.