The indie scene is buzzing because the Indian drama "Kidney" just got picked up by Shiladitya Bora’s Platoon One Films. This is a huge W for directing duo and siblings Aakarsh and Agrim Sansanwal, who are currently preparing the film for its big moment at Estonia’s Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF).
The plot thickens
Set in a remote village in India, the story follows two lovers caught in the middle of a messy feud between their families. When a disagreement over inheritance turns sour, the couple has to navigate greed and betrayal that isn't even their fault. It’s giving classic star-crossed lovers drama, but with some serious social stakes.
A labor of love
The brothers, who run their own Mumbai-based outfit, Enfant Terrible Productions, admitted they basically made this movie on vibes and a dream. "We made the film with very little money and a seemingly inexhaustible supply of spirit," Aakarsh Sansanwal said. The local farming community actually stepped in to help out when the budget ran dry, making the film a genuine product of the village.
Shiladitya Bora said he was obsessed from the moment he saw it, noting, "I couldn’t let go of this film after I saw it." He praised the brothers for having a strong, distinct voice that stands out from the usual noise.
Why it matters
"Kidney" is hitting the Critics’ Picks competition at Tallinn, a festival known for spotlighting films that aren't afraid to take artistic risks. By landing Platoon One—which has a solid track record of backing high-quality indie cinema—this film is officially moving from a DIY passion project to the global stage. It’s a total main character moment for the Sansanwal brothers.
