Kannada short film ‘Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know’, directed by Chidananda S. Naik, has qualified for the 2025 Oscars in the Live Action Short Film category. Produced by the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), this film has already garnered international acclaim, winning the first prize at the Cannes Film Festival’s La Cinef Selection earlier this year.
Filmed entirely at night, the 16-minute short film invites viewers into the rich tapestry of the Indian landscape, connecting them with its unique culture and atmosphere. The film presents a poignant narrative centered on an elderly woman who steals the village rooster, leading to an unexpected cessation of sunlight and resulting in turmoil within the community. In a desperate attempt to restore harmony, a prophecy is invoked, leading to the exile of the woman’s family as they embark on a mission to reclaim the rooster.
The La Cinef Jury at Cannes lauded the film for its outstanding storytelling and direction, saying, “Une illumination qui, du fond de la nuit, brille par son humour et le sens de la mise en scène, le premier prix est attribué à Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know de Chidananda S. Naik,” which translates to “An illumination that, from the depths of the night, shines with humor and a keen sense of direction; the first prize is awarded to ‘Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know’ by Chidananda S. Naik.”
Director Chidananda S. Naik expressed his long-standing aspiration to tell this story, aiming to create an immersive experience for audiences. “Our goal was to recreate the experience of not merely hearing these stories but of genuinely living them—an experience I hope resonates with audiences around the globe”, he said.
The film also won the Best Indian Competition Award at the Bengaluru International Short Film Festival, which took place in August.