Frozen – A Black-and-White Feature Film- A Film Festival Success

Project Name: Frozen Director: Shivajee Chandrabhushan Screenplay: Shanker Raman Starring: Danny Denzongpa, Gauri, Skalzang Angchuk Location: Shot entirely on location in Ladakh, India

Brief: Frozen is a 2007 black-and-white Indian drama film that tells the story of Lasya, an imaginative teenager living with her father and younger brother in a remote Himalayan village. Their peaceful existence is shattered when the army moves in, leading to a ceaseless conflict that transforms their lives. The film explores themes of isolation, disruption, and survival against the backdrop of a harsh, unforgiving landscape.

Process:

Conceptualization & Script: Based on a story by Shivajee Chandrabhushan, the original screenplay was crafted by Shanker Raman, focusing on the deep emotional and environmental struggles faced by the family.

Location Shooting: Filmed entirely on location in the pristine yet harsh terrains of Ladakh, the black-and-white cinematography highlights the beauty and bleakness of their surroundings.

Post-Production & Festival Circuit: The film premiered at the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival and went on to feature in prestigious festivals like the San Francisco International Film Festival and the London Film Festival. It received critical acclaim, winning the Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director and Best Cinematography at the 55th National Film Awards.

Frozen is a moving portrayal of a family's resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges, set against the stark beauty of the Himalayas.