Abhay Deol's 'Road Movie' to premier at Toronto film fest

The film, which was the first Indian movie to be picked up at the Cannes' prestigious L'Atelier market by an international buyer with the leading global sales agent Fortissimo picking up its distribution rights.

The movie, which is slated for theatrical release next year, is presented by Indian Films in association with Studio 18 and will be screened at Winter Garden on September 18 at the festival.

"we couldn't be more delighted and honoured that TIFF has chosen to premiere the film as special presentation," said Sandeep Bhargava, CEO Indian Films.

"The invitation is an endorsement of our vision to selectively back high quality international cinema. 'Road Movie' brings into sharp focus the global interest in indigenous Indian films following the critical acclaim earned by Oscar-winning 'Slumdog Millionaire'" he said.

Written and directed by Dev Benegal, the film is about Vishnu, a restless young man, who rejects his father's faltering hair oil business and hits the road with a travelling cinema.

Colourful and full of unforgettable characters, the film celebrates India's open roads and the pure love for movies.

Shot on a lush canvas, the movie also stars festival circuit favourite Tannishtha Chatterjee and star Bollywood actor-director Satish Kaushik, who were last seen together in the 2007 British film 'Brick Lane'.

Dev Benegal's first feature presentation 'English August' (1994) had garnered a lot of critical acclaim. His second venture 'Split Wide Open' was premiered at the Venice International Film Festival.