Pune International Film Fest selects Assam co-produced India–Israel film

The Indo–Israel international feature film ‘Murders Too Close – Love Too Far’, co-directed by Assamese filmmaker Manju Borah and Israeli filmmaker Dan Wolman, will be screened at the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) 2026 as part of the Global Cinema section on January 17 and 19. This film marks a historic achievement for the Assamese film industry, being the first international co-production that integrates an Assamese production with a foreign production house, supported by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting through the NFDC. The film was shot entirely in Assam, utilizing a local Assamese crew, highlighting the region’s emerging technical and creative capabilities in international film collaborations.

‘Murders Too Close – Love Too Far’ is a 108-minute crime drama featuring a notable cast that includes Siddharth Nipon Goswami, Shaminn Mannan, Seema Biswas, Bhagirathi Bai Kadam, and Adil Hussain. The screenplay was co-written by Borah and Wolman, with cinematography by Partha Borgohain, editing by Eyal Amir, sound design by Debajit Gayan, and music composed by Sanket Joshi. The narrative is centered around senior CBI officer Ram Chaudhary, assigned to investigate the brutal killings of two policemen at a rural police station.

As the investigation unfolds, Ram crosses paths with Gita, a talented artist whose artwork delves into themes of mob psychology and collective behavior. Their developing relationship adds depth to the story, as additional murders complicate the investigation, blending personal feelings with procedural inquiries and culminating in a gripping revelation. Manju Borah expressed pride in the selection, stating that it signifies not only a personal achievement for the filmmakers but also a broader affirmation of Assamese cinema’s potential on international stages. She emphasized that local stories can resonate globally when anchored in strong narratives and supported by local talent.