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Tuesday, May 20, 2025
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Cannes calling: 'Greytown Girl' steals the spotlight with 2025 nomination

AWARDS

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Supporting actress Uveka Rangappa and lead actress Sanam Sitaram at the local premiere of "Greytown Girl".

Image: Supplied.

The heart-warming and inspiring film, “Greytown Girl”, has earned a significant nomination at the Cannes Film Awards 2025.

The film, will be in competition among other global films in the Best Indie Feature category.

The Cannes Film Awards will be held in June at the renowned Variétés Movie Theatre in France.

"Greytown Girl" is a poignant biopic that tells the true story of Meena played by newcomer Sanam Sitaram, a resilient girl from a small town in South Africa, born with physical challenges and abandoned as an infant.

Against all odds, she rises above her circumstances by embracing the power of letter writing, ultimately finding love that transcends borders. 

The film stars many industry favourites, including Emmanuel Castis, Jack Devnarain and Linda Sokhulu, among others. 

Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Darrell Roodt, the film encapsulates themes of resilience, unconditional love, and the unyielding spirit of a woman who emerges triumphant despite formidable obstacles.

The creative visionary behind the touching narrative is Rani Sitaram, a producer and writer renowned for her innovative contributions to both fiction and non-fiction.

Veteran actor Jack Devnarain plays Veer in “Greytown Girl”. Picture: Supplied

Image: Supplied.

Her work in "Greytown Girl" has not gone unnoticed; the film is a vibrant celebration of South Africa's cultural diversity, weaving together English, Zulu and Hindi languages.

This rich tapestry sets the backdrop for a story that calls to audiences across the globe.

About the nominations, an excited Sitaram: “This nomination is an incredible honour. ‘Greytown Girl’ is a story of love, hope and perseverance that transcends borders. It is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of women globally and the beauty of finding love against all odds.”

Meanwhile, AB Moosa, the CEO of Nolava International Content Distribution and the executive producer of "Greytown Girl" said: "We are thrilled that ‘Greytown Girl’ has received this prestigious nomination at the Cannes Film Awards. This film is a testament to the power of storytelling, capturing the resilience and courage of a remarkable woman who inspires us all," he stated.

The Cannes Film Awards 2025 honours exceptional talent across various categories, encompassing film-making, screenwriting, music and acting.