Natesh Hegde’s “Tiger’s Pond” Set to Make History at Berlin Film Festival
In a groundbreaking moment for Indian cinema, rising filmmaker Natesh Hegde’s second feature film, Tiger’s Pond (Vagachipani), is poised to become the first Kannada-language film to ever screen at the prestigious Berlin Film Festival’s Forum strand. This dark crime drama, which has already garnered significant international attention, is set to make its world premiere on February 15, 2024, marking a historic milestone for Kannada cinema on the global stage. With its rich, layered narrative and striking visual style, Tiger’s Pond is not only a cinematic achievement but also a powerful exploration of themes that resonate universally, from power and faith to caste dynamics and human struggle. The film’s journey to Berlin is a testament to its artistic merit and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries, speaking to audiences worldwide through its deeply human story.
At the heart of Tiger’s Pond is the mystical village of Vagachipani, a place where the divine and the mundane coexist in a world teetering on the edge of chaos. The story centers around a ruthless businessman who attempts to manipulate local elections, a plan that is disrupted by the unexpected resistance of an outcast villager. However, the true emotional core of the film lies in its portrayal of Pathi, a mute maid whose silent presence becomes the catalyst for the narrative’s exploration of power, faith, and caste. For Hegde, Pathi’s character was the spark that ignited the creative process. As he explains, “She is the only central human figure, around her all the forms of lust for power are operating. As we can see, the citizens of the world are reduced to mere numbers. So the story of the film is most relevant.” Through Pathi’s story, Hegde invites audiences to reflect on the dehumanizing effects of systemic oppression and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Hegde’s approach to storytelling is deeply collaborative, both with his audience and his creative team. He believes that the filmmaker and the audience are co-creators of the story, with the filmmaker offering a sensory experience that allows the audience to immerse themselves in the narrative. “I firmly believe, from the beginning of my filmmaking practice, that the audience and I together create the story of the film,” he says. “I offer a sensory experience to the audience, and this film can operate from the depth of human emotion. The experience of witnessing the story can be cathartic.” This philosophy is evident in the film’s use of 16mm format, which captures the rapturous textures and treacherous depths of the village, creating a visually striking and emotionally immersive experience. The ensemble cast, which includes Dileesh Pothan, Achyut Kumar, and Hegde himself, brings the story to life with nuanced performances that underscore the film’s universal appeal.
The film’s production is the result of a dynamic collaboration between visionary filmmakers and producers. Celebrated Indian filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, known for his work on internationally acclaimed films like The Lunchbox, serves as a producer on the project. Kashyap praises Tiger’s Pond as “an honest and thrilling story,” noting that Hegde’s storytelling is “so effortless and fluid that it just transports you into the world where it’s happening.” The film is also supported by Singapore-based producer Jeremy Chua, known for his work on the Cannes-winning film Inside the Yellow Cocoon Shell, and Indian producer Ranjan Singh, whose credits include the Cannes-selected film Kennedy. This diverse team of creatives has come together to bring Hegde’s vision to life, ensuring that Tiger’s Pond reaches a global audience.
For Hegde, whose debut feature Pedro earned critical acclaim at major festivals including Busan and London, the Berlin premiere of Tiger’s Pond is a deeply personal and emotional milestone. “It’s an emotional moment for me and my village, who made the film possible,” he says. The film’s journey began at Busan’s Asian Project Market in 2022, where it garnered early support from actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty, known for his work on Kantara. Hegde has expressed his gratitude to Shetty, stating that without his support, “this film wouldn’t have gone to the floors.” Co-producer Ranjan Singh adds, “We are so happy to join him on Vagachipani’s showcasing journey as it begins from Berlinale. We are confident that the film will resonate with audiences across the world.”
The first-look teaser for Tiger’s Pond has already generated buzz, offering a glimpse into the film’s tense and atmospheric world. Set at a gas station, the teaser unfolds with a sense of impending danger, hinting at the powder keg of tension that lies beneath the serene beauty of village life. As the film prepares for its world premiere, it is poised to make a lasting impact on global cinema, challenging audiences to confront the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of storytelling. With its rich narrative, stunning visuals, and universal themes, Tiger’s Pond is not just a milestone for Kannada cinema but a testament to the power of film to transcend borders and speak directly to the human heart.
