Elder One (The)

Acclaimed new film The Elder One audaciously blends social realism and magic realism; sexuality and gender identity; gay romance and crime-thriller, to startling effect.

The disappearance of Mulla’s older brother, Akbar (a stunning performance by Nivin Pauly), looms large over life in beautiful Lakshadweep. Braving the seas to find him, young Mulla’s journey is almost over before it’s begun. After escaping from an orphanage, he’s thrust onto the harsh streets of Mumbai only to be abducted by the minions of a drug-addicted gangster, Bhai.

In the past, we see Akbar’s life as a fisherman on the island; a place of stunning natural beauty but stifling social conservatism. During a ritual dance performance, Akbar catches the eye of Aamar (Roshan Mathew), a mute islander on the verge of an arranged marriage. A tender but forbidden love affair unfolds between the two men, challenging their assumptions about the future.

Trailer...