Premiered in the ACID sidebar, In Retreat by Maisam Ali is a beautifully filmed portrayal of solitude set in a rarely depicted region of India.
India has a strong presence at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, with Sister Midnight in Directors’ Fortnight, Santosh in Un Certain Regard, and All We Imagine As Light by Payal Kapadia, marking the first time in three decades an Indian film has secured a slot in the main competition. Iran-born Indian filmmaker Maisam Ali strengthens this presence with his ACID selection In Retreat (Be Qayaam), also the first Indian film to be featured in this section.
In his debut feature, which runs only 75 minutes, Ali explores the theme of loneliness and the physical geography and territory that shape his narrative. Set between the end of autumn and the start of winter, a nameless nomad, played by Harish Khanna, now in his 50s, returns to his small mountain town after having missed his brother’s funeral.
In this beautifully captured film, a rarely seen region of India is explored through nuanced and serene cinematography that highlights the delicate balance of life, loneliness, and solitude. Khanna’s character, though shrouded in mystery, offers a touching and intimate glimpse into the nomadic life, conveying deep emotions connected to the territory. The director’s precision and personal connection to the story shine through.
In Retreat is a visual poem, with Masiam Ali using Concerto in D Minor, BWV 974: II. Adagio to complement the film’s soul. It is a quiet, emotionally stirring portrait of a man in solitude.
In Retreat is produced by Mumbai-based Varsha Productions and Bangalore’s Bayrenter Films (Thanikachalam Sa), with co-production by Salt For Sugar Films from Paris.
Our reporters are on the ground in Cannes, France, to bring you exclusive content from the 77th Cannes Film Festival—explore our coverage here.
