Priyanka Chopra Jonas has always championed independent Indian storytellers who dare to dream beyond geographical borders. Now, the global powerhouse is lending her formidable Hollywood clout and discerning eye to another standout homegrown gem. Ahead of the crucial Academy Awards campaign season, Priyanka has officially joined young Indian director Pranav Bhasin’s Oscar-qualified short film We Were Here as an executive producer.
Written and directed by Bhasin, the delightfully sharp mockumentary unfolds in a sleepy Indian town, tracking three retired seniors convinced that artificial intelligence is rapidly rendering human labour obsolete. Their utterly bizarre form of defiance? Masquerading in public as ordinary household appliances. But their eccentric rebellion hits an ironic snag when one of their own children lands a plum job at a cutting-edge AI tech firm. Having charmed critics across eighty global festivals, the short has bagged over twenty international honours, including top prizes at Palm Springs International ShortFest and SXSW, officially securing its Oscar consideration.
Impressed by its poignant blend of humour and contemporary angst, Priyanka shared, “This film offers a refreshing, witty take on a subject that feels very timely. I jumped at the opportunity to come on board as an Executive Producer to amplify this creative team and ensure their brilliant, original vision gets the spotlight it deserves.”
Reflecting on the humble beginnings of the satirical comedy, Bhasin revealed, “We Were Here started as a small, silly idea about three uncles trying to stop the spread of AI, and somewhere along the way, I fell in love with them, their friendships, and their stubborn resilience.” Calling the international industry support surreal, the young filmmaker is bolstered by a formidable executive team, including British acting powerhouse Andrew Scott.
Produced by Yash Gonsai, Dheer Momaya, and Dar Gai, and acquired by The New Yorker for its official channel, the project is picking up major steam worldwide. With Priyanka firmly in its corner, this sharp, eccentric desi satire is truly ready for its global moment in the international spotlight.
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