Nepali Films “Rotten Blood” and “Manu” Win Big at Queens World Film Festival in NYC

Two Nepali films, “Rotten Blood” and “Manu,” brought home prestigious awards at the 13th Queens World Film Festival (2024), solidifying the talent within the Nepali film industry.

“Rotten Blood,” a short film directed and written by Durga Bahadur Karki, triumphed in the Best Production Design category. The film’s captivating visuals, masterfully captured by cinematographer Rabin Acharya, earned a special mention from the jury.

Acharya’s talents weren’t limited to his cinematography in “Rotten Blood.” He also donned the producer’s hat for the other winning Nepali film, “Manu.” This feature film, written and directed by Shridhar Niraula, received the coveted Founder’s Choice Award.

“Rotten Blood” tackles complex societal issues through a symbolic lens. Set in a contemporary world, the film delves into themes of greed, vanity, and societal control. Presented in a surreal style, the narrative depicts a world where children are manufactured, challenging traditional notions of family and procreation. The film follows a character’s path to self-discovery and liberation from societal constraints.

“Manu” adopts a more personal approach, focusing on the life of Bholanath, an elderly man navigating his twilight years. As Bholanath relocates to the city with his family, he grapples with his own mortality and reflects on his past. Sharing a room with his grandson, Bholanath’s declining health and occasional outbursts strain the strength of their bond. The film explores the complexities of caring for elderly relatives and the profound impact it has on both caregivers and patients.

This isn’t Acharya’s first accolade at the Queens World Film Festival. In 2016, he secured the Best Cinematography award for his work on the Nepali film “Dying Candle.”