Vinay Shukla’s acclaimed documentary film ‘While We Watched’ ruffled quite a few feathers when it premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2022. The documentary takes a look at the struggle and resolve of Indian TV journalist Ravish Kumar to pursue his craft in the polarised and biased backdrop of the Indian media space.
While We Watched focuses on Ravish Kumar, who is known for his unflinching takedowns of the ruling establishment. As press freedom disintegrates, Kumar finds himself at the receiving end of harassment, threats and even violence. The film has a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Sadly, it is yet to see the light of day on Indian OTT.
Well, not anymore. ‘While We Watched will finally premiere on a streaming platform in India, for the benefit of Indian viewers. The much-applauded documentary film’ While We Watched’ premieres on MUBI India on 27th May, 2024.
While We Watched is written and directed by Vinay Shukla. It is co-written by Reshma Ramachandran, Amaan Shaikh and Abhinav Tyagi. The film won the Cinephile Award at the 27th Busan International Film Festival.
The official synopsis of ‘While We Watched’ reads –
“A turbulent newsroom drama intimately chronicling the working days of broadcast journalist Ravish Kumar as he navigates a spiraling world of truth and disinformation. As factual reporting is in freefall globally, ‘While We Watched’ is a dignified lens into the abyss”.