An international feature film co-directed by Assamese filmmaker Manju Borah and Israeli director Dan Wolman has been selected for the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) 2026, marking a significant milestone for cinema from northeast India.
Titled Murders Too Close – Love Too Far, the film will be screened in the Global Cinema section on Saturday, January 17, and Monday, January 19. This selection is notable as the first international co-production between an Assamese filmmaker and a foreign production house, supported by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting through the National Film Development Corporation of India. Co-director Wolman expressed his excitement, saying, “I am happy to tell you that our film has been accepted to the Pune International Film Festival and will be presented there on January 19.”
The 108-minute crime drama was shot entirely in Assam with a local crew, showcasing the region’s technical expertise for global productions. The film’s cinematography was handled by Partha Borgohain, editing by Eyal Amir, sound design by Debajit Gayan, and music by Sanket Joshi. The cast features Siddharth Nipon Goswami, Shaminn Mannan, Seema Biswas, Bhagirathi Bai Kadam, and Adil Hussain.
Set in a rural police station, the story follows senior CBI officer Ram Chaudhary as he investigates the murder of two policemen. His investigation intersects with Gita, an artist whose work explores mob psychology and collective behaviour. As further murders occur, the investigation becomes intertwined with personal relationships, leading to a climactic revelation.
Co-producer and director Manju Borah highlighted the film’s importance, saying, “Being selected at PIFF is a proud moment not just for our film, but for Assamese cinema. This project shows that stories from Assam can find space on global platforms when backed by strong collaboration and local talent.”
Dan Wolman, an internationally acclaimed filmmaker known for works like Hide and Seek, Precious Life, and Judas, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 49th International Film Festival of India in 2018. Borah, a National Award-winning director, is renowned for her culturally rooted films focusing on social, indigenous, and women-centric themes.
Cinematographer Partha Borgohain reflected on the experience: “It was creatively satisfying to work with an international team while staying rooted in local landscapes and working practices. I am thankful for the opportunity.”
The screenings are expected to raise Assam’s profile in international cinema and inspire further cross-border collaborations from the region.
