A 80s classic that rediscovered its identity in IFFI 2014 has led to a controversy. Starring Shabana Azmi and Naseeruddin Shah and directed by Gulzar, Libaas is a remake of one of the finest short stories of the poet. The film that traces the nuances of marital relationships and infidelity was screened at the International Film Festival of India, which was held in Goa this year. However, producer Vikas Mohan is very upset with this since the festival organizers did not take his permission to screen it.
Hence, a miffed Vikas has decided to go the legal way and sent a notice to the IFFI authorities accusing them of cheating. The notice states that the film was indeed given to IFFI in 1991 but with a condition that they won't be able to screen it after 22 years without the permission of the producer, that is, Vikas Mohan. Also, they have asked the officials at IFFI to make the screening commercial by demanding money from the ones who have attended the same at the festival. Also, Vikas has added that he has asked for the copy of the film to be returned to him along with a public apology from the IFFI organizers. However, IFFI hasn't responded to these claims.
On the other hand, producer Vikas Mohan has plans to release the film since 26 years ago, the film could not find distributors owing to the downfall of Gulzar Saab's career as a director. However, Vikas who still considers Libaas as one of the masterpieces has expressed his desire to find distributors for the film.
 |
Comments