An enthralling Indian Bengali film that carries viewers away into a world of wonder and fantasy is called The Magical Camera of Manick Uncle. Inspired by the insightful essay “Cinema Katha” (The Story of Cinema) by Satyajit Ray, this cinematic masterpiece develops with subtlety and profundity.

The story revolves around three teenagers: Pikoo, Phatik, and Mukul. The good neighbor Manick Uncle, who is wise beyond his years, is entwined with their life and begs them to value creativity above virtual diversion. They set off on a voyage of self-discovery under his direction, exploring the rich tapestry of cinema’s history, language, and artistry.

They are put to the test by a series of events that begin when Manick Uncle gives them his prized camera. The group needs to find courage and creativity to recover the camera before it is taken over by evil forces. Their search is not just about finding a valuable item; it’s also about preserving the sense of wonder and innocence that Manick Uncle gave them.

“The Magical Camera of Manick Uncle” reminds us of the enduring charm of real human connection and the transformational power of creativity through entrancing graphics and moving narration. It honors the lasting relationship that develops between a mentor and mentee, creating a mosaic of optimism, resiliency, and youth’s unwavering spirit.

The cast of the film consists of Sabyasachi Chakraborty, Rishi Mukherjee, Juin Bagchi, Tapash Ghosal, Sukharanjan Banerjee, and Soumitra Chakraborty.

Awards won by the film:

Indo-French International Film Festival

Winner: Best Feature Script / Screenplay. (08.03.2024)

2nd Northeast International Documentary and Film Fest – NIDFF

Winner: (21.01.2024)

(i) Best Actor Award to Sabyasachi Chakraborty

(ii) Best Screenplay Award to Raja Chatterjee

Critics Choice Cine Film Festival (04.10.23)

(Official selection)

Sangrur International Film Festival (Punjab) (01.10.2023)

Winner: Best Narrative Film & Best Experimental Film

Reels International Film Festival (Aurangabad, Maharashtra) (18.02.2024)

Winner: Best Feature Film.

Jharkhand Independent Film Festival- (Jharkhand)

(30/09/2024) (Official selection)

Lulea International Film Festival, Sweden (Finalist)

Suchitra Sen International Bengali Film Festival, New York, Winner: Best Children’s Film (India)

NEW DELHI PREMIERE

17th Cine Utsab organized by Bengali Association New Delhi

In addition to showcasing acting prowess, “The Magical Camera of Manick Uncle” delves into the point where fact and fiction collide in the film medium. The movie provides audiences with an engaging and thought-provoking cinematic experience thanks to its creative storytelling and performance techniques.

Priyanka Dutta