Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal’s independent film Girls Will Be Girls continues its journey of international acclaim as it secures two prestigious nominations at the 40th Independent Spirit Awards. The film is among the top five contenders for the John Cassavetes Award, which honors the best films made with a budget under $1 million. Additionally, the film’s lead actor, Kani Kusruti, has been nominated for Best Supporting Performance, marking another milestone for the critically lauded film.
Directed by Shuchi Talati and produced under Richa and Ali’s banner Pushing Buttons Studios, Girls Will Be Girls is an evocative coming-of-age drama that has already won hearts globally, with accolades and recognition at premier festivals such as Sundance and Cannes. Following its successful release in the US, where it garnered immense appreciation from audiences and critics alike, the film is now set to release in India on 18th December 2024, exclusively on Prime Video India.
Expressing her excitement about the nominations, Richa Chadha shared,
"We couldn’t be prouder of what Girls Will Be Girls has achieved. It’s not just a film but a labor of love and passion for all of us involved. To be nominated for the John Cassavetes Award, which celebrates independent filmmaking at its finest, is truly an honor. And Kani’s nomination is a testament to her incredible talent. This film is about breaking stereotypes and telling stories that matter, and I’m thrilled that it has struck a chord with audiences globally. As we bring it to India, we hope it resonates deeply with our audiences here as well."
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Jun 13, 2026Ali Fazal, co-producer of the film, added,
"This is a dual celebration for us. Independent cinema often struggles to find its place, but this recognition by the Independent Spirit Awards highlights the importance of voices like ours. Girls Will Be Girls was made with limited resources but boundless creativity and heart. Kani’s performance is nothing short of transformative, and her nomination is well-deserved. With its India release just around the corner, we’re excited to bring this story home and see how it connects with audiences on Prime Video India. We’re grateful for all the love and support we’ve received so far—it fuels us to keep telling stories that challenge and inspire."
With its strong narrative and captivating performances, Girls Will Be Girls continues to showcase the power of independent cinema on a global stage. The Indian audience is now eagerly anticipating its digital debut, promising to celebrate a film that has already made its mark internationally.
The Independent Spirit Awards honor the finest achievements in independent filmmaking. The John Cassavetes Award, in particular, highlights innovative storytelling within constrained budgets, championing the essence of independent cinema
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