'To Kill A Tiger' Roars In 2024 Oscars Best Documentary Norms
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The 96th Academy Award nominations are finally out. This year, as many of us expected, Oppenheimer is leading the charge with 13 nominations followed by Poor Things (11), Killers of The Flower Moon (10) and Barbie (8).
Sadly, India’s official Oscar entry “2018: Everyone is a hero” and the independent submission “12th Fail” didn’t make it; but the documentary “To Kill a Tiger,” directed by Indian-origin Canadian filmmaker Nisha Pahuja, secured a nomination in the Best Documentary Feature Film category.
Taking place in Jharkhand, “To Kill a Tiger” narrates the story of Ranjit, a father persistently seeking justice for his 13-year-old daughter, who was kidnapped and subjected to assault by three men.
The film exposes the patriarchal values trapping Kiran (name changed to protect her identity), challenging the notion of honor. Despite the family’s heroism, it confronts the difficult paths survivors face and questions the impact of their struggle.
The documentary took 8 years to complete and it shows the survivor’s real face — a decision made with her consent.
Pahuja, while posing many questions to her adult subjects, respects moments of silence during Kiran’s interviews, enabling her to embrace strength and courage at her own pace.
Kiran’s appearance on screen feels defiant, considering the recounted events and threats her family faces.
In “To Kill a Tiger,” the local villagers even confront the camera crew, expressing objection to constant filming. The image of a local leader entering Ranjit’s home for polite interrogation is unsettling, given the portrayed comfort and safety within those walls.
The documentary doesn’t provide easy answers, but through Kiran’s father and her resilient spirit, it emphasizes that the revolution starts within the home.
To Kill a Tiger is competing with documentaries such as The Eternal Memory, Four Daughters, Bobi Wine: The People’s President, and 20 Days in Mariupol.
Interestingly, The Elephant Whisperers, centered on two Indian mahouts and their elephants, secured the Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Film last year.
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