Director Rohan Mapuskar’s film ‘April May 99’ has been selected for the Film Bazaar section at the prestigious Cannes International Film Festival. The most special aspect of this achievement is that a simple, heartfelt story has reached a global platform.
‘April May 99’ is not just a film—it represents a time that each one of us has lived through at some point. Summer vacations, carefree moments with friends, and those tender emotions that first entered our hearts… all of it is beautifully and gently portrayed in this story. While watching the film, the audience doesn’t just see a story—they get lost in their own memories. That’s why this story goes beyond the boundaries of language and speaks directly to the heart.
The Mapuskar Brothers, who stand behind this film, have not just told this story—they have lived it with sincerity. Notably, the strong support from non-Marathi producers played a crucial role in this journey. This support for a Marathi story beyond language barriers is not just collaboration—it’s a mark of trust. That’s what makes ‘April May 99’ feel even more personal and relatable.
Producers Rajesh Mapuskar, Madhukar Kotian, Jogesh Bhutani, and Morris Noon, along with co-producer Lawrence D’Souza, have clearly contributed heartfelt support to this project. Each of them treated the film not just as a project, but as a cherished memory—and that is why the story feels so alive.
Speaking about this achievement, Rohan Mapuskar says, “‘April May 99’ is, for me, a story of those simple yet very special moments from my life and all of ours. The memories we unknowingly leave behind while growing up—days spent with friends, first love, and moments that say so much without words—we have tried to preserve all of that in this story. Having this story recognized on a platform like Cannes is not just an honor for us, but a beautiful opportunity to take these memories to the world. I believe that no matter where we are in the world, everyone has a connection with their childhood and that innocent phase of life. I hope ‘April May 99’ will gently touch that bond once again.”
