Kunal Kapoor-starrer Nobleman', which addresses the problem of bullying because of one's sexuality, will have its Asian premiere at Kashish, the annual LGBTQ film festival. An adaptation of William Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice', director Vandana Kataria's debut film is set in a posh boarding school and will see Kunal playing a drama teacher. Explaining the theme of the film, Vandana says, "The film touches upon bullying a social evil that exists not only in our schools and colleges, but also in our homes, workplaces, and in society, at large. Today, we see it take all kinds of forms as trolls on social media, as religious factions that force their agendas upon the public, and of late, as politics of extremism. Noblemen' is one such story that shows the tussle between the bullied and their bullies. Set in an all-boys boarding school, it mirrors society's current totalitarian drift. We couldn't have asked for a better platform, and to be one of the centrepieces makes us proud. Kunal adds, "The film is a humble and honest attempt at highlighting bullying and the effects it can have on society at large. I hope our film resonates with the audience.
This year, the five-day festival will screen six Indian feature films, with each one telling a different story. Sridhar Rangayan, the festival's director emphasises, "Each movie highlights aspects of not only LGBTQ lives, but emotions at large. Noblemen' is one of those rare movies that push the boundary, by being bold and gritty, yet remain sensitive and nuanced. You empathise with each character and join them in a roller-coaster journey of happiness and anguish.
Kunal Kapoor in a still from the movie
