Sikkimese film ‘Shape of Momo’ showcased at Cannes Film Market

GANGTOK, : The under-production ‘Shape of Momo’, a Nepali language feature film, directed by Sikkimese filmmaker Tribeny Rai, was among five Asian works-in-progress selected for the prestigious “HAF Goes to Cannes” programme at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.

On May 17, the five chosen projects were introduced and pitched to global industry professionals at the Cannes Film Market. Each team presented a 10-minute excerpt of their respective films to an audience that included festival programmers, curators, sales agents and distributors from the industry

Representing ‘Shape of Momo’ at Cannes were director Tribeny Rai, producer Kislay, and lead actor Gaumaya Gurung. The team also unveiled the film’s first official poster at the Bharat Pavilion during the festival.

“Goes to Cannes” is a key programme of the Marché du Film, dedicated to spotlighting emerging voices in global cinema. Curated in collaboration with partner festivals such as the Hong Kong - Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF), the initiative serves as a platform for next-generation filmmakers to gain international exposure and potential distribution opportunities.

“It is the biggest film market in the world, attracting top buyers and sellers globally. Having the chance to meet them and present our project was truly exciting. It was sometimes challenging because our film doesn’t resemble mainstream Indian projects, its distinct look and feel, shaped by our geography and culture, often required added context. But that’s exactly what makes it a Sikkimese film, and the process has been incredibly rewarding. We attended as many meetings as possible and are now focused on building a clear strategy based on the valuable feedback and interactions we had there,” said Tribeny.

Tribeny hails from Nandok near Ranipol in East Sikkim.

“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, for showing personal interest in the film and extending his unwavering support.A special note of thanks to our Member of Parliament,Lok Sabha,Indra Hang Subba, for supporting my trip to Cannes and for encouraging the participation and representation of Sikkimese artists on a global platform,” said Tribeny.

The ‘Shape of Momo’ is her first full length Nepal feature film and it describes the journey of a woman who is determined not to let patriarchy and its influence push her down. The film has been shot extensively in and around Nandok.