#Mumbai Film Company

[mayhighfilms-blog]

Transform your brand with stunning ad films with Mayhigh Films

In today's fast-paced digital world, capturing attention is more challenging than ever. Brands need a captivating way to engage their audience and convey their message effectively. Enter Mayhigh Films, where creativity meets strategy in the realm of ad filmmaking. With an expert team led by Ad Film Director LD Sharma and Creative Head Ira Aurdichya, this dynamic studio specializes in crafting stunning ad films that resonate with viewers on multiple levels. But why are ad films so crucial for brands? Let’s dive into the art of storytelling through visuals and explore how Mayhigh Films can elevate your brand like never before.

The Importance of Ad Films for Brands

Ad films hold immense power in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. They condense a brand's essence into a captivating visual narrative that resonates with audiences. In an age where attention spans are fleeting, ad films provide the perfect medium to convey messages swiftly and memorably. A well-crafted film engages viewers emotionally, creating lasting impressions far beyond static images or text. These films serve as storytelling vessels, showcasing not just products but also values and aspirations. By connecting on a deeper level, brands can foster loyalty among consumers who see themselves reflected in these narratives. Moreover, social media amplifies their reach. A stunning ad film can go viral, generating buzz and sparking conversations within communities worldwide. It transforms passive viewers into active participants in your brand story. Ad films are essential tools for differentiation in crowded markets. They encapsulate what makes a brand unique while inviting potential customers to become part of its journey.

Key Elements of a Successful Ad Film

A successful ad film captivates the audience from the very first frame. It's all about storytelling that resonates emotionally and leaves a lasting impression. Visuals play a crucial role. Striking imagery grabs attention, while clever cinematography enhances the narrative. Every shot should serve a purpose, conveying your brand's message effectively. Sound is equally important. A powerful soundtrack can evoke emotions and set the tone for your film. Pairing visuals with compelling audio creates an immersive experience for viewers. Authenticity matters too. Audiences connect better with genuine stories that reflect real experiences or relatable characters. The script must align with your brand values to foster trust and credibility. A call to action guides viewers on what to do next—whether it's visiting a website or trying out a product—making it clear how they can engage further with your brand’s offerings.

Mayhigh Films' Unique Approach to Ad Filmmaking

Mayhigh Films stands out in the crowded landscape of ad filmmaking. Their approach is deeply rooted in storytelling. Each project begins with understanding the brand's essence and vision. Collaboration plays a crucial role. Creative Head Ira Aurdichya works closely with clients to ensure their voice shines through every frame. This synergy leads to ads that resonate on an emotional level, capturing audience attention effectively. Additionally, Ad Film Director LD Sharma infuses innovative techniques into each film. His keen eye for detail ensures that visuals not only captivate but also convey powerful messages. Furthermore, Mayhigh Films embraces technology and creativity harmoniously. They harness cutting-edge equipment while maintaining a fresh perspective on traditional narratives. This unique blend results in films that are both impactful and memorable, setting brands apart from their competitors.

Mayhigh Films stands out in the crowded world of advertising through its unique approach to ad filmmaking. Led by the visionary Ad Film Director LD Sharma and driven by the creative insights of Creative Head Ira Aurdichya, the team crafts narratives that resonate with audiences on a deeper level. Their process begins with understanding your brand's essence. Each project is treated as a bespoke creation, tailored specifically for your target audience. This dedication ensures that every film not only showcases products but also tells compelling stories that draw viewers in. The technical prowess behind Mayhigh Films elevates their productions further. State-of-the-art equipment combined with innovative techniques results in visuals that are nothing short of breathtaking. Their commitment to quality is evident in every frame. Moreover, collaboration plays a crucial role at Mayhigh Films. The team believes great ideas emerge from open dialogue between clients and filmmakers. This synergy fosters creativity and leads to more effective storytelling. Through this distinctive methodology, Mayhigh Films transforms brands into memorable experiences, ensuring they stand out in today’s competitive marketplace. With captivating ad films, your brand can make an enduring impression—one that resonates long after viewers watch it.

[poojalate]

The Power of Video Marketing: Engaging Your Audience

In today’s digital landscape, video content reigns supreme. From social media platforms to websites, businesses are increasingly leveraging videos to capture their audience's attention. Whether you’re a startup or an established brand, the role of a video production strategy is essential in driving engagement, building trust, and converting leads. This article explores the power of video marketing and how video creation companies and a well crafted strategy can boost your business’s presence.

 Why Video Marketing Matters

Video has become a dominant force in digital marketing for a few key reasons:

1. Higher Engagement Rates: Videos are inherently more engaging than text or static images. People are more likely to watch a video than read an article, especially when the content is visually compelling.

2. Improved Conversion Rates: A wellproduced video can help explain complex products or services in a way that resonates with viewers. This can lead to higher conversion rates and greater customer retention.

3. Increased Brand Trust: Videos help humanize your brand. When customers can see real people or products in action, they’re more likely to trust your business.

4. SEO Benefits: Websites with video content are more likely to rank higher in search engine results, as search engines tend to prioritize engaging media.

 The Role of a Video Production Company

A highquality video requires more than just pointing a camera and pressing record. It involves scripting, shooting, editing, and sometimes even animation or special effects. This is where video production companies come into play.

A video film company can help your business create professional and polished content that resonates with your target audience. From corporate training videos to promotional content, the right production team can turn your ideas into reality, ensuring that your brand’s message is communicated effectively.

 Key Benefits of Working with a Video Production Company:

 Expertise in Storytelling: A professional video company understands how to craft a narrative that engages viewers while delivering your brand’s message.

 HighQuality Production: Production companies have access to the best equipment, ensuring your video looks professional, from lighting to sound quality.

 Efficiency: When working with a dedicated video team, your project will be completed on time and within budget, ensuring the highest return on investment.

 Types of Videos to Boost Engagement

Different types of videos can serve unique purposes, depending on your marketing goals. Here's a breakdown of some effective video types:

1. Explainer Videos: These short, animated or liveaction videos explain your product or service in a way that is easy to understand. They are particularly useful for complex offerings and can lead to higher conversion rates.

2. Product Demos: Product demonstration videos showcase the benefits and features of your product, making them a powerful tool for ecommerce sites.

3. BehindtheScenes Videos: Customers love seeing what goes on behind the scenes. These videos build authenticity and transparency, helping customers connect with your brand on a deeper level.

4. Testimonials: Customer testimonial videos are a great way to build trust. Real customers discussing their positive experiences with your product or service can be a gamechanger for your brand’s credibility.

5. Promotional Content: Want to announce a new product or service? A video film company can create highimpact promotional videos that drive excitement and interest.

 Integrating Video with Your Marketing Strategy

While video is a powerful tool, it’s important to integrate it seamlessly with your other marketing efforts. Whether you're working with a PPC agency or a PPC marketing agency, combining video content with targeted ads can increase clickthrough rates and conversions. Video ads on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram can boost your reach and drive traffic to your website or landing pages.

For example, using a video production company to create engaging video content for your PPC campaigns can significantly enhance your advertising efforts. People are more likely to click on video ads compared to static ones, and integrating a strong calltoaction can help guide them toward conversion.

 Maximizing Video Distribution Channels

Once your video is produced, the next step is ensuring it reaches your target audience. Social media, websites, and email campaigns are just a few places where your video can have a powerful impact. Here's how to maximize your video distribution:

1. Social Media Platforms: Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok are excellent for distributing video content. These platforms reward engaging content, making them ideal for growing your audience organically.

2. Email Campaigns: Embedding a video in your email marketing campaigns can significantly boost open and clickthrough rates, leading to more engagement.

3. Website Integration: Videos on your homepage or product pages can help customers understand your offerings better and drive them further down the sales funnel.

 Conclusion

Incorporating video into your marketing strategy is no longer optional—it's essential. By partnering with a video creation company, you can produce highquality content that not only captures attention but also engages your audience and converts them into loyal customers. Whether you're aiming to create explainer videos, product demos, or customer testimonials, the power of video marketing can take your brand to new heights. Additionally, working with a PPC agency or a PPC marketing agency to distribute your video content can further enhance your marketing campaigns, ensuring your investment in video production yields maximum returns. With the right approach, your video content can be a gamechanger for your business.

[urbanblink21]

Leading Remote Production Services | Remote Filming in India | Urbanblink

UrbanBlink is a Remote Filming company in Mumbai that is always available for remote filming of outsourcing assignments. From remote filming production to corporate video production UrbanBlink helps foreign clients.

[vaakcreativesblog]

Best Film Production House & Video Production Company In Delhi NCR, India.

One of the leading names in the world of Best film and video production in Delhi NCR, India, this production house stands out for its unparalleled creativity, technical prowess, and commitment to excellence. With a talented team of filmmakers, editors, and technicians, they have consistently delivered high-quality films, advertisements, and corporate videos that captivate audiences and resonate with clients' visions. Their state-of-the-art facilities and innovative approach make them the go-to choice for brands and artists seeking top-notch production services in the region. Committed to pushing boundaries and setting new standards, this production company continues to redefine the landscape of visual storytelling in India.

[creativegarage2012]

Exploring the Vibrant World of Animation Companies in Mumbai

In the sprawling metropolis of Mumbai, where dreams are woven into the fabric of reality, lies a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation in the realm of animation. Boasting a rich history in the Indian film industry, Mumbai has emerged as a prominent center for animation production, nurturing a multitude of talented individuals and groundbreaking studios. In this blog, we delve into the pulsating world of animation companies in Mumbai, uncovering the gems that continue to redefine the landscape of visual storytelling.

[vaakcreatives01]

Best film production house in delhi ncr | Video Production Company in India.

Vaak provide the best film production house & video production services in Delhi ncr, India. We Create high quality videos that help businesses grow their brand and reach their target audience. Contact us today. video production house in delhi ncr, gurgaon, mumbai.

[mayhighfilms]

Which Is The Best Ad Film Production House In Mumbai - Mayhighfilm

Absolutely, Mayhighfilm is an exceptional Ad Films Production House In Mumbai, renowned for its innovative and impactful creations. With Mumbai being the heart of India's film industry, numerous production houses vie for the top spot, but Mayhighfilm stands out for various reasons.

The Creative Edge

Mayhighfilm has carved a niche for itself by consistently delivering top-notch, creative ad films. Their approach involves a perfect blend of storytelling, cinematography, and cutting-edge technology. Each project reflects a unique narrative style, making their commercials memorable and effective.

Talented Team

One of the key strengths of Mayhighfilm lies in its talented team. They boast a diverse group of professionals, from visionary directors to skilled cinematographers and adept editors. The team's collective expertise ensures the execution of innovative ideas and flawless production.

Clientele and Success Stories

The production house has an impressive portfolio, collaborating with a wide range of brands across industries. Their success stories speak volumes about their capabilities in understanding client needs and translating them into visually stunning and persuasive advertisements. Brands entrust Mayhighfilm with their campaigns due to the proven track record of delivering results.

Technological Prowess

Staying ahead in the competitive film industry requires embracing technological advancements. Mayhighfilm is adept at leveraging the latest tools and techniques, be it in cinematography, visual effects, or post-production. This proficiency allows them to create visually striking and impactful ads that resonate with the audience.

Innovative Approach

What sets Mayhighfilm apart is its ability to think outside the box. They approach each project with fresh perspectives, experimenting with different storytelling techniques and visual styles. This innovative streak ensures that their ad films stand out amidst the clutter of commercials flooding various media platforms.

Client Satisfaction and Reviews

Client satisfaction is the hallmark of any successful production house. Mayhighfilm's clients often laud their professionalism, commitment to deadlines, and ability to surpass expectations. Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients reinforce their reputation as a reliable and top-tier production house.

Conclusion

Mayhighfilm's ascent to being one of the best Ad Films Maker In Mumbai is a testament to their dedication, creativity, and ability to consistently deliver exceptional work. Their knack for storytelling, coupled with technological prowess and a talented team, makes them a preferred choice for brands seeking impactful advertising solutions.

While opinions on the best production house may vary, Mayhighfilm's consistent excellence places them at the forefront of the industry. Their impressive body of work and commitment to pushing creative boundaries continue to earn them accolades and solidify their position as a powerhouse in Mumbai's ad film landscape.

Social Links -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mayhighfilms/

[griffinpicturesindia]

Commercial film production companies Mumbai - Griffin Pictures

Griffin Pictures is one of the leading commercial film production companies in Mumbai. We are equipped with the right amount of knowledge and experience. We Professional video production services for brands, corporate video production, and more.

https://www.griffinpictures.in/our-services/

[hi-techanimationstudio]

There has been great praise for the animation of this show. The quality, transition and character design are impeccable. Hi-Tech Animation production studio, the animation studio is the brainchild behind this show. They have developed, produced and created this amazing show which is loved by many.

[mayhighfilms-blog]

Crafting Stories, Frame by Frame: The Art of Directing in Ad Films

The world of advertising is a vibrant canvas where creativity meets strategy. Every frame captured in an ad film tells a story, igniting emotions and sparking conversations. At the heart of this storytelling revolution lies the Ad Film Director, guiding every aspect from inception to execution. Professionals like LD Sharma and Creative Director Ira Audichya exemplify how passion and vision can transform simple ideas into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. As you delve deeper into the art of directing in ad films, you'll discover how each decision shapes the viewer's experience. The role requires not just technical skill but also an innate understanding of human emotion and connection. Join us as we explore what it takes to craft unforgettable stories, frame by frame, in the dynamic landscape of advertisement filmmaking.

Understanding the Role of a Director in Ad Films

The role of a director in ad films is multifaceted and dynamic. They are the visionaries who breathe life into concepts, transforming ideas into visual narratives that resonate with audiences. Directors like LD Sharma bring expertise to the table, guiding every aspect of production. From crafting engaging storylines to visual composition, their influence steers the project from start to finish. Communication is vital. A successful director collaborates closely with clients and creative teams, ensuring everyone shares a unified vision. This synergy leads to authentic storytelling that captivates viewers. Moreover, directors make critical decisions about pacing, tone, and style. Their choices can elevate an ordinary advertisement into a memorable experience. Understanding target demographics also plays a crucial part in their strategy. The right approach ensures that messages connect meaningfully with intended audiences while delivering brand values effectively.

The Creative Process: From Concept to Execution

The creative process in ad film directing is a dynamic journey. It begins with a spark—an idea that ignites the imagination. Directors like LD Sharma often brainstorm concepts, crafting narratives that resonate with audiences. This phase involves sketching visuals and drafting scripts, laying the groundwork for what’s to come. Once a solid concept emerges, storyboarding becomes essential. Each frame is meticulously planned to ensure clarity and flow. Creative Director Ira Audichya emphasizes collaboration here; ideas are refined through feedback. As production ramps up, translating vision into reality requires precision. Directors work closely with cinematographers to capture each scene's essence using lighting and angles effectively. The energy on set can be electric as actors bring characters to life. Every take matters; it’s about capturing genuine emotions while staying true to the original concept. This dance between creativity and execution defines successful ad films, making them memorable experiences for viewers everywhere.

Collaboration with Clients, Writers, and Producers

Collaboration is the heartbeat of successful ad filmmaking. Each project begins with a vision, and it’s essential to align that vision with clients, writers, and producers. Every stakeholder brings unique perspectives. The client offers insight into brand values and target audience expectations. Writers craft compelling narratives that resonate deeply. Producers manage logistics, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Open communication fosters creativity. Regular brainstorming sessions can lead to innovative ideas that might otherwise remain undiscovered. It’s about blending different voices to create something cohesive yet dynamic. Trust is vital in these relationships. When everyone feels valued, they’re more likely to contribute their best work. This synergy often reflects in the final product—a harmonious blend of art and strategy. Balancing creative freedom with client expectations can be tricky but rewarding when achieved properly. Successful collaboration transforms initial concepts into powerful visual stories that captivate audiences across platforms.

Choosing the Right Cast and Crew for Successful Ad Films

Choosing the right cast and crew is vital in the world of ad films. Each element contributes to telling a story that resonates with viewers. A talented cast brings characters to life, making emotions genuine and relatable. When selecting actors, consider their ability to connect with your audience. Look for versatility and charisma; these traits can make or break an ad’s impact. It’s essential that they embody the brand's essence. Equally important is assembling a skilled crew. From cinematographers to sound designers, every role matters. Their expertise shapes the visual narrative you want to convey. Collaboration within this team fosters creativity. Encourage open communication among members—ideas flourish when everyone feels valued. The synergy between cast and crew ultimately defines the film's success, transforming a simple concept into an engaging experience that captures attention instantly.

The Importance of Visual Storytelling in Ad Films

Visual storytelling is the heartbeat of ad films. It transforms fleeting moments into lasting impressions. A single frame can convey emotions that words often cannot. In a world where attention spans are shrinking, captivating visuals grab viewers instantly. They provide context and depth to the narrative, making brands memorable. Ad Film Director LD Sharma skillfully blends imagery with emotion, creating stories that resonate deeply with audiences. His keen eye for detail ensures every shot serves a purpose. Creative Director Ira Audichya understands this power well. Through thoughtful composition and color choices, she crafts narratives that echo in the minds of consumers long after they've seen them. Effective visual storytelling creates an immersive experience. It invites viewers into a brand’s universe, allowing them to connect on an emotional level rather than just intellectual engagement. This connection fosters loyalty—something every brand strives for in today's competitive landscape.

Techniques and Tips for Effective Directing in Ad Films

Effective directing in ad films requires a blend of creativity and precision. Start by storyboarding each scene. This visual roadmap acts as a guide, ensuring clarity in your vision. Communication is key. Foster open dialogue with your cast and crew to create an environment where ideas flow freely. Encourage improvisation; sometimes the best moments are unplanned. Utilize camera angles wisely. Experiment with different perspectives to evoke emotion or highlight product features effectively. Lighting also plays a crucial role—natural light can add authenticity, while controlled lighting enhances mood. Don’t overlook pacing during editing. A well-timed cut can amplify impact, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish. Consider sound design too—a powerful soundtrack elevates visuals, making them memorable. Trust your instincts but remain flexible. Adaptability allows you to navigate unforeseen challenges and seize spontaneous opportunities that may arise on set.

Challenges Faced by Directors in the Advertising Industry

The advertising industry is a dynamic landscape that presents unique challenges for directors. Ad Film Director LD Sharma and Creative Director Ira Audichya, both highly regarded in their fields, have navigated these hurdles with skill and creativity. One significant challenge is the pressure to deliver impactful content within tight deadlines. The fast-paced nature of advertising demands quick turnaround times without sacrificing quality. Directors often juggle multiple projects simultaneously, requiring exceptional time management skills. Additionally, directors must adapt to evolving consumer preferences and trends. What resonates today may not work tomorrow. Staying ahead of the curve involves ongoing research and flexibility in creative approaches. Budget constraints also play a crucial role in decision-making for ad films. Directors frequently need to do more with less while still achieving high production value. This can lead to innovative solutions but may also limit resources available for certain ideas or concepts. Collaboration remains essential throughout this process; however, aligning visions among clients, producers, writers, and other stakeholders can be challenging. Effective communication becomes vital to ensure everyone is on board regarding the project's direction. Navigating feedback—both constructive criticism and client revisions—can test a director's patience and adaptability. It requires balancing artistic vision with commercial objectives effectively. Each obstacle faced only adds depth to the storytelling journey within ad film directing—a testament to the resilience required by professionals like LD Sharma and Ira Audichya as they continue crafting compelling narratives that engage audiences globally.

[filmdistrictindia]

Corporate Film Makers in Mumbai | Corporate Video Production Company Mumbai

Professional corporate film makers in Mumbai: As a best corporate video production company in Mumbai we conceptualize and produce innovative corporate videos.

[srbachchan]

DAY 5980

Jalsa, Mumbai July 2/July 3, 2024 Tue/Wed 4:35 am

🪔 ,

July 03 .. birthday greetings to Ef Neha Srivastava - Kulshrestha from Ghana 🇬🇭 .. Ef AMIT Fuhaar from Kolkata .. and .. Ef Nirmala Jain .. 🙏🏻❤️🚩

💍 .. wedding anniversary greetings to Ef Sunanda and Atul Pandey from Abu Dhabi .. 26 years of togetherness .. on July 03 .. love and happiness .. 💐🙏🏻❤️🚩

..

July in their mind and the rest shall follow , thine .. we are entrusted with the NDA so we refrain ..

some time at the recordings for film for pleasure and for catching the company of the music maestros .. the most exhilarating time spent .. nothing can compare when friends of the same tenor meet up and , well , just be together ..

discussions abound in the presence of dinner and more , on the future of life with the kind of technological expansions slowly but gradually affecting us all in the presence of 'EXISTENCE'

years after this year and within the years of those that shall come in the next to the next generation .. it shall be the time of a lifetime .. automation , thought , word and deed , shall all evaporate .. because it shall have been stored in the largest data banks that shall abound ..

every spoken word given voice or action shall be in the content capacity of the Bank du DATa .. and humanity shall have a different life and environ to exist in .. which is why early departure is sought prayed and wished for ..

BUT ..

Music shall ever survive .. it is the soul of the unending .. the music of life and the Universe - if at all there is one - for, the learned and the written words of millions of years in the yore have predicted , unknown of course , that the written word shall have meaning and will to exist ..

it is too late for me to delve into all this now .. the next shall survey the field and decide what needs to be done ..

what needs to be done now is to close this sightless chapter and resume what we were built for - a gracious slumber for the body and the cerebrum to revive and lessen the burden of the obvious on the present ..

rest well .. sleep shall repair - the mind the body the thought !!

Amitabh Bachchan

[poojalate]

How to choose a mobile app development company?

Running a successful business is not an easy task in this generation because of heavy competition if you want to succeed in your field of business promoting your business is vital. One such way is owning a mobile app for your brand in that case choosing the top mobile app development company is a crucial decision for businesses and entrepreneurs looking to bring their app ideas to life. With the increasing demand for mobile apps, there is no shortage of development companies in the market. This article will guide you through the process of selecting the best mobile app development company for your project.

Know your requirements

Before you start looking for a mobile app development company, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your project's goals, requirements, and objectives. What problem will your app solve? Who is your target audience? What features do you want in the app? Having a well-defined project area will help you in finding a company that specializes in the technologies and expertise your project requires.

Research and shortlist companies

Begin your search by researching mobile app development companies. You can use various platforms which are available in the Google platform to identify potential partners. Create a shortlist of companies that seem to align with your requirements.

Check portfolios

Review the portfolios and case studies of the shortlisted companies. This will give you an idea of their previous work and the range of apps they have developed. Analyze the design, and user experience of their previous apps. A company with a diverse and impressive portfolio is more likely to handle your project effectively.

Read client reviews and testimonials

Checking the various factors before hiring the top app development companies is vital but before making your decision it is vital to check the client reviews and testimonials they are invaluable in assessing a company's reputation and reliability. Look for feedback from past clients on platforms there are certain websites that could assist you in this so make use of them. These reviews will provide an understanding of the company's communication, project management, and overall client satisfaction.

Budget company demanding for

Even though you are in need to create a mobile app for your business budget comes at a priority level because that going to decide how effective the app going to be so determine the budget before considering the mobile app companies in the market. Discuss your budget with the potential development companies and request detailed quotes. Be aware of companies that offer extremely low prices, as they may compromise on quality. Consider the value you will receive for the investment and make an informed decision.

Summary

Choosing the top app development companies is a crucial step in turning your app idea into a reality. By defining your goals, researching potential partners, and evaluating factors like technical expertise, communication, and budget, you can make an informed decision. Remember that a well-chosen development company can be a valuable partner in bringing your app to market successfully.

[whileiamdying]

All the Films in Competition at Cannes, Ranked from Best to Worst

The twenty-two films that premièred in the 2024 festival’s main program offered much to savor and revile.

By Justin Chang May 26, 2024

The seventy-seventh annual Cannes Film Festival came to a startling and joyous conclusion on Saturday night, when the competition jury, chaired by Greta Gerwig, awarded the Palme d’Or, the festival’s highest honor, to “Anora,” a funny, harrowing, and finally quite moving portrait of a sex worker’s madcap New York misadventures. It was startling because the movie, though one of the best-received in the competition, had not been widely tipped for the top prize, which seldom goes to a U.S. film; with “Anora,” Sean Baker becomes the first American director to win the Palme since Terrence Malick did, for “The Tree of Life” (2011), thirteen years ago. And it was joyous not only because the award was bestowed on a worthy and remarkable film but because Baker used the occasion to deliver the best, most eloquent and impassioned acceptance speech I’ve ever heard a Palme winner give.

Reading from prepared remarks, Baker singled out two other filmmakers in the competition, Francis Ford Coppola and David Cronenberg, as among his personal heroes. He dedicated the award to sex workers everywhere, a fitting tribute from a filmmaker who has put their lives front and center, with drama, humor, and empathy, in movies like “Starlet” (2012), “Tangerine” (2015), and “Red Rocket” (2021). He tossed some exquisite shade in the direction of the “tech companies” behind the so-called streaming revolution—including, presumably, Netflix, which came away as one of the night’s big winners; its major acquisition of the festival, Jacques Audiard’s musical “Emilia Pérez,” won two prizes. And, in a moment that drew rapturous applause, Baker delivered a plea on behalf of theatrical films, declaring, “The future of cinema is where it started: in a movie theatre.”

I was fortunate to see all twenty-two films in the Cannes competition on the big screen, projected under superior conditions in houses packed with fellow movie lovers. It’s my hope that, when these movies are released in the U.S., as the great majority of them likely will be, you will seize the chance to see them on the big screen as well—even “Emilia Pérez,” which Netflix may not keep in theatres for long, but whose bold dramatic and stylistic risks have the best chance of winning you over if they have your undivided, wide-awake attention.

I have ranked the movies in order of preference, from best to worst. Here they are:

1. “Caught by the Tides”

Jia Zhangke, a Cannes competition veteran, has long been the cinema’s preëminent chronicler of modern China (“Mountains May Depart,” “Ash Is Purest White”), mapping its social, cultural, and geographical complexities with great formal acumen, and also with the longtime collaboration of his wife, the superb actress Zhao Tao. Jia’s latest work, drawing on an archive of footage shot in the course of roughly two decades, unfurls a story in fragments, about a woman (Zhao) and a man (Li Zhubin) who fall in love, bitterly separate, and have a melancholy reunion years later. It’s an achievement by turns fleeting and monumental: a series of interlocking time capsules, a wrenching feat of self-reflection, and a stealth musical, in which Zhao dances and dances, standing in for millions who have learned to sway and bend to history’s tumultuous beat.

2. “All We Imagine as Light”

As the first Indian feature invited to compete at Cannes in nearly three decades, Payal Kapadia’s narrative début (after her 2021 documentary, “A Night of Knowing Nothing”) would be notable enough; that the movie is so delicately felt and sensuously textured is cause for outright celebration. Winner of the festival’s Grand Prix, or second place, it tells the story of two roommates, Prabha (Kani Kusruti) and Anu (Divya Prabha), who work as nurses at a Mumbai hospital. It teases out their personal circumstances��Prabha’s estrangement from her unseen husband, Anu’s frowned-upon romance with a young Muslim man (Hridhu Haroon)—with a quiet truthfulness that, like the glittering lights of the city, lingers expansively in the memory. (A forthcoming Sideshow/Janus Films release.)

3. “Grand Tour”

The Portuguese director Miguel Gomes (“Tabu,” “Arabian Nights”) delivered some of the most virtuosic filmmaking in the competition—as the jury recognized by giving him the Best Director prize—with this characteristically yet extraordinarily playful colonial-era travelogue. Shifting between color and black-and-white, set in 1917 but full of fourth-wall-breaking anachronisms, the movie tells a story of sorts about a roving British diplomat (Gonçalo Waddington) and a fiancée (Crista Alfaiate) he’s in no hurry to marry. But its true fascination lies in the humid atmosphere and wanderlust-inspiring splendor of its East and Southeast Asian locations, ranging from Singapore and Bangkok to Shanghai and Rangoon. It’s a movie to get lost in.

4. “The Seed of the Sacred Fig”

It’s impossible to absorb this blistering domestic drama without thinking of its dissident director, Mohammad Rasoulof, who recently fled Iran after being sentenced to prison and a flogging. (His appearance at his film’s première made for one of the most emotional moments in recent Cannes memory.) Shot entirely in secret, the story follows a Tehran-based husband (Missagh Zareh) and wife (Soheila Golestani) who are increasingly at war with their progressive-minded young-adult daughters (Mahsa Rostami, Setareh Maleki) during nationwide political protests led by women. The result is a thriller of propulsive skill and blunt emotional force, marrying the muscularity of an action film to the psychological intensity of a chamber drama. (A forthcoming Neon release.)

5. “Anora”

The director Sean Baker is near the height of his storytelling powers with this dazzling (and now Palme d’Or-winning) portrait of a Manhattan strip-club dancer (a revelatory Mikey Madison) who impulsively marries the ultra-spoiled son (Mark Eydelshteyn) of a Russian oligarch. Much comic chaos ensues, some of it pushed past the brink of plausibility, but Baker’s multifaceted love for his characters proves infectious and sustaining, as does his belief that acts of unexpected kindness can redeem even the darkest nights of the soul. (A forthcoming Neon release.)

6. “The Shrouds”

Early on in this elegantly sombre yet mordantly funny new movie, which stars Vincent Cassel, Diane Kruger, and Guy Pearce, the director David Cronenberg, a master of cerebral horror, unveils his latest invention: a technologically advanced burial shroud that allows people to watch a loved one’s body decomposing in the grave. So begins a drolly fluid inspection of classic Cronenberg themes—the deterioration of the flesh, the instability of the image, the paranoia-inducing incursions of technology into every aspect of life—but imbued with a nakedly personal dimension that the director has noted in interviews; the story was inspired by his wife’s death, in 2017, from cancer.

7. “Megalopolis”

In this legendarily long-gestating passion project, which I’ve written about at length, Francis Ford Coppola posits that our fragile, battered civilization is headed the way of the Roman Empire. The grimness of that prospect is unsurprising from a director accustomed to peering deep into the heart of American darkness (the “Godfather” movies, “The Conversation,” “Apocalypse Now”). For all that, the filmmaking here glows with a particularly hard-won optimism, even a welcome sense of play—borne out by an ensemble of actors, including Adam Driver, Giancarlo Esposito, and especially Aubrey Plaza, who fully embrace Coppola’s rhetorical and conceptual flights of fancy.

8. “The Substance”

Sympathetic or sadistic? Feminist or misogynist? Coralie Fargeat’s body-horror bonanza, which won the festival’s award for Best Screenplay, has been one of the competition’s more polarizing hits, which is unsurprising; divisiveness should be expected from a story about an aging actress and TV fitness guru who, desperate to regain her youthful bod of yesteryear, effectively splits herself in two. Whether the outlandish premise (think “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by way of “Death Becomes Her”) and its blood-gushing fallout withstand intellectual scrutiny, there’s no doubting the ferocity of the two leads, Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, or Fargeat’s sheer filmmaking verve as she pushes her ideas to their sanguinary conclusions.

9. “Motel Destino”

Just a year after the Brazilian director Karim Aïnouz appeared in competition with a surprisingly stiff-corseted English period drama, “Firebrand,” it was bracing to watch him rebound with the competition’s most sexually uninhibited and flagrantly horny title; corsets don’t apply here, and even underwear proves blissfully optional. Set at a seedy roadside motel where the clientele never stops moaning, it’s a feverishly shambling erotic thriller starring three very game actors (Iago Xavier, Nataly Rocha, and Fábio Assunção) in a romantic triangle that plays like James M. Cain with sex toys—“The Postman Always Cock Rings Twice,” as it were.

10. “Emilia Pérez”

A trans-empowerment musical set against the backdrop of Mexico’s drug cartels might sound like a dubious proposition on paper, and, for the many detractors of this genre-melding big swing from the French director Jacques Audiard (“A Prophet,” “The Sisters Brothers”), what actually made it onto the screen was no better. But I was disarmed from the start by Audiard’s quasi-Almodóvarian vibes, his touchingly imperfect embrace of song-and-dance stylization, and, most of all, his three leads: the remarkable discovery Karla Sofía Gascón, a scene-stealing Selena Gomez, and a never-better Zoe Saldaña. All three (along with Adriana Paz) were recognized with the festival’s Best Actress prize, awarded collectively to the movie’s ensemble of actresses; Audiard also won the Jury Prize. (A forthcoming Netflix release.)

11. “Oh, Canada”

After a tense trilogy of dramas about male redemption through violence (“First Reformed,” “The Card Counter,” “Master Gardener”), the writer and director Paul Schrader has taken a gentler turn with an adaptation of “Foregone,” a 2021 novel by the late Russell Banks. (It’s his second Banks adaptation, after the 1997 drama “Affliction.”) In exploring the fragmented consciousness of an aging documentary filmmaker (played at different ages by Richard Gere and Jacob Elordi), Schrader bravely forsakes the narrative fastidiousness of his recent work and takes on grand themes of memory, mortality, and artistic self-reckoning, to formally ragged but sincerely moving effect.

12. “The Girl with the Needle”

This stark and terrifying black-and-white drama from the Swedish-born, Polish-based director Magnus von Horn (“Sweat”) was perhaps the competition’s bleakest entry. Set in Copenhagen immediately after the First World War, it pins us so mercilessly to the hard-bitten perspective of Karoline (an excellent Vic Carmen Sonne), a factory seamstress who becomes pregnant out of wedlock, that we scarcely notice her story shifting in a different, more sinister direction. It’s a bitterly hard-to-stomach brew of a movie, at once hideous and beautifully made, with a chilling supporting turn by Trine Dyrholm as a friend whose interventions turn out to be anything but benign.

13. “Three Kilometres to the End of the World”

The setting of this well-observed but emotionally opaque drama, from the Romanian actor turned director Emanuel Pârvu, is a small rural village where a closeted teen-age boy, Adi (Ciprian Chiujdea), is brutally beaten after being caught in an intimate moment with a male traveller. Pârvu teases out the legal, psychological, and moral fallout with the pitch-perfect performances and laserlike formal focus that have become hallmarks of new Romanian cinema. But, though the movie is persuasive enough as an indictment of small-town religious fundamentalism and homophobia, it proves curiously incurious about Adi’s perspective, to the detriment of its own human pulse.

14. “Kinds of Kindness”

After his Oscar-winning period romps “The Favourite” (2018) and “Poor Things” (2023), the Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos scales back—but goes long—with a sprawling, increasingly tedious compendium of comic cruelty. My favorite of the film’s three disconnected stories, all featuring the same actors, is the one where Jesse Plemons (the ensemble M.V.P., as the jury recognized with its Best Actor award) plays Willem Dafoe’s Manchurian candidate; my least favorite is the one where Emma Stone joins a sweat-worshipping sex cult. The one where Stone slices off her finger and cooks it for Plemons falls—much like the movie in Lanthimos’s over-all œuvre—somewhere in the middle. (A Searchlight Pictures release, opening June 21st in theatres.)

15. “Bird”

My admiration for the English filmmaker Andrea Arnold (“American Honey”) is such that I’m eager to revisit her latest rough-and-tumble coming-of-age story and find that I undervalued it. Arnold is certainly skilled at integrating recognizable actors, which in this case includes Barry Keoghan and Franz Rogowski, into her grottily realist frames, and she has an appealing lead performer in Nykiya Adams, as a twelve-year-old girl who overcomes persistent abuse and neglect. But the story may lose you—as it lost me—with a magical-realist turn that magnifies, rather than minimizes, the tortured-animal symbolism that has often dogged Arnold’s work.

16. “Beating Hearts”

An exchange of insults at a high-school bus stop provides a saucy meet-cute for a good girl (Mallory Wanecque) and a ne’er-do-well boy (Malik Frikah); so begins a raucous and endearing love story for the ages, in which the director Gilles Lellouche, with outsized glee and little discipline, merrily appropriates the conventions of classic Hollywood musicals and gangster flicks. The result is much too long at nearly three hours—the story spans several years, with Adèle Exarchopoulos and François Civil playing older versions of the two leads—but I can’t say I didn’t warm to its rambunctious cornball charm.

17. “Limonov: The Ballad”

Why make a film about Eduard Limonov, the globe-trotting Russian dissident poet and punk provocateur reviled for his pro-fascist sympathies? The filmmaker Kirill Serebrennikov never musters a satisfying answer in this muddled English-language bio-pic, despite an energetically uninhibited central performance by Ben Whishaw and a cheeky panoply of filmmaking techniques—jittery camerawork, lengthy tracking shots—meant to catch us up in the épater-la-bourgeoisie exuberance of Limonov’s revolt. Considering his earlier work, I prefer the rebel-youth vibes of “Leto” (2018) and the dazzling cinematic assaults of “Petrov’s Flu” (2021), both of which also screened in competition here.

18. “Parthenope”

Nearly every new picture from the Italian auteur Paolo Sorrentino could be reasonably called “The Great Beauty,” the title of his gorgeous 2013 cinematic tour of Rome. (It left that year’s Cannes empty-handed, but won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.) His latest work remains most intriguing for its ambivalent but still sensually overpowering vision of the director’s home town, Naples, from which springs a modern-day goddess, named after Parthenope, a Siren from Greek mythology. She’s played by Celeste Dalla Porta, a great beauty indeed and an empathetic screen presence, though only fitfully does her character seem worthy of this movie’s epic enshrinement.

19. “Wild Diamond”

Another disquisition on beauty and its discontents, this time from the débuting French writer and director Agathe Riedinger. She hurls us the life and busy social-media feed of a nineteen-year-old, Liane (a terrific Malou Khebizi), who has nipped, tucked, and tailored every part of herself to realize her dream of being selected for a hot new reality-TV series. Part influencer-culture cautionary tale, part bad-girl Cinderella story, the movie glancingly suggests the soul-rotting effects of beauty worship, but it falls victim to the trap that Liane is trying to avoid: in a sea of worthy candidates, it doesn’t especially stand out.

20. “The Apprentice”

Donald Trump’s attorneys have threatened legal action to block the release of this drama about his early rise to fame and wealth under the mentorship of the attorney Roy Cohn (Jeremy Strong). It speaks to the useless proficiency of Ali Abbasi’s movie that the prospect of such censorship provokes more indifference than outrage. Shot to evoke cruddy nineteen-eighties VHS playback, the movie is well acted by Strong, Maria Bakalova as Ivana Trump, and an increasingly makeup-buried Sebastian Stan as Trump himself, depicted from the start as a sack of shit that gets progressively shittier. It’s not dismissible, but it’s hardly the stuff of revelation, either.

21. “Marcello Mio”

In this trifling meta-comedy from the French filmmaker Christophe Honoré (previously in the 2018 Cannes competition with the lovely “Sorry Angel”), the actress Chiara Mastroianni embarks on a strainedly whimsical personal odyssey to examine the legacy of her late father, the legendary Italian actor Marcello Mastroianni, and her own conflicted place therein. To that end, she spends much of this overstretched movie in “8½” and “La Dolce Vita” black-suited drag as she navigates a roundelay of industry in-jokes; among the French cinema luminaries making appearances are Fabrice Luchini, Nicole Garcia, and, most welcome, Chiara’s mother, Catherine Deneuve.

22. “The Most Precious of Cargoes”

The French director Michel Hazanavicius continues his uneven post-“The Artist” run with this animated Second World War fable, adapted from a 2019 novel by Jean-Claude Grumberg (and narrated by the late Jean-Louis Trintignant). It has an affecting opening stretch, in which a baby girl, thrown by her desperate father from an Auschwitz-bound train, is rescued and raised in secret by a woodcutter’s kindhearted wife. But when the child’s provenance is discovered, stoking local antisemitism, the movie becomes a bathetic wallow in Holocaust imagery, drowned in an Alexandre Desplat score whose every surge turned my heart increasingly to stone. ♦

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The Jewish Bollywood Star: Esther Abraham

She was India's first female film producer

Esther Abraham was a Jewish Bollywood superstar and the first female film producer in India. She was a proud observant Jew even while shaping modern Indian culture.

Esther was born in Calcutta in 1916 to an Orthodox Jewish family. The Abrahams were Baghdadi Jews who had emigrated from Iraq in the 19th century. In school Esther excelled academically and athletically. She was a talented hockey player with a roomful of trophies. Esther was also an artist who attended Cambridge University after high school and majored in art.

After university, Esther became a kindergarten teacher at a Jewish school in Calcutta, but she yearned to be a performer. Her first job in the entertainment industry was as a dancer for a silent movie theater. Esther’s job was to entertain the audience during a pause in the film while the reel were changed.

Many members of Esther’s family were talented musicians and performers. She went to visit an actress cousin in Bombay who was appearing in a theater production. The director noticed tall, beautiful Esther and gave her a screen test.

Esther did so well on the test that she soon appeared in her first movie, Bhikaran, in 1936. Around this time she was given the screen name Pramila. Audiences fell in love with Pramila and she quickly became one of the most famous actresses in India. She also worked as a model and appeared on many magazine covers. In 1947, at age 31, Esther won the first Miss India contest – while pregnant with her fifth child.

At that time in India, the movie industry was controlled by a handful of extremely wealthy producers who exploited their actors and crew members and paid them only a measly salary. Esther Abraham decided to change that. She defied the studio system by becoming the first female producer of Bollywood feature films. Esther formed her own production company, Silver Productions, and produced sixteen feature films. She treated her cast and crew with respect and paid them well.

Esther starred in 30 films. In addition to being an actress and producer, she did her own stunts and worked as a stunt double for other performers. Esther also designed her own costumes and jewelry for every production.

Famous for her enchantingly beautiful eyes, audiences didn’t know that her eyesight was very poor and she did dance moves by counting the steps. Audiences also were likely unaware that she was Jewish – and probably wouldn’t have cared. Unlike so many countries with Jewish communities, India has no history of antisemitism.

Esther’s daughter Naqi Jahan was crowned Miss India in 1967, and they are the only mother and daughter who both won the title. Her son Haidar Ali is a successful Indian actor and screenwriter. Haidar described his mother: “A woman who was gifted by God with internal power and strength… she magnetized power…. One the home front she kept us together [clenching his fist] like this.”

Esther Abraham appeared in her last film in 2005, at age 90, playing a grandmother in the movie Thaang. She died a few months after its release. Until the end of her long life, Esther remained a practicing Jew. Her funeral was at the Maghen David synagogue, and her son Maurice read Psalms in Hebrew. Esther was buried in the Jewish cemetery in Mumbai.

For entertaining audiences for seventy years, and for being the first female film producer in India, we honor Esther Abraham, aka Pramila, as this week’s Thursday Hero.