Esteemed composer and Academy Award laureate AR Rahman has unveiled the initial glimpse and trailer for his latest cinematic endeavor, a documentary entitled Headhunting to Beatboxing. This revelation transpired within the prestigious confines of the Bharat Pavilion at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. Headhunting to Beatboxing, under the directorial vision of Rohit Gupta and produced by AR Rahman himself, embarks on an enthralling odyssey through the metamorphosis of rhythm and sound, tracing the lineage of music across diverse cultures, tribes, and epochs.
In discussing this documentary opus, Rahman articulated: “Music possesses an extraordinary ability to metamorphose society, foster connections, and imbue life with significance. Headhunting to Beatboxing epitomizes the universal cadence that unifies humanity through its myriad manifestations. We eagerly anticipate the commencement of its festival circuit journey, and there is no venue more fitting than Cannes, a haven for the celebration of cinema, to herald the announcement of this film.”
From the venerable traditions of headhunting tribes to the contemporary resurgence of state music, the documentary promises to usher viewers into an immersive and edifying exploration of musical anthropology. The debut at Cannes’ Bharat Pavilion was graced by the presence of AR Rahman, an Academy Award winner and Padma Bhushan honoree, alongside director Rohit Gupta, Executive Producer Abu Metha (Advisor to the Chief Minister, Government of Nagaland), and Executive Producer Theja Meru (Chairman TaFMA, Government of Nagaland), as well as a host of other distinguished guests and dignitaries.
Reflecting on the film’s arduous five-year production journey, director Rohit Gupta remarked: “The creation of this film has been a transformative experience for me. The vibrant and resplendent music of today, which transcends the historical traumas, profoundly astonished me during its creation. I am elated for the audience to witness our diligent efforts and the enchanting essence inherent in Nagaland’s music.” This documentary marks Rahman’s second substantial foray into filmmaking as a producer, following his earlier venture, 99 Songs.