In a significant achievement for Indian cinema, the feature film The Goat Life has been nominated for Outstanding Achievement in Sound Editing – Feature International at the 72nd Annual Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE) Golden Reel Awards.
This nomination marks The Goat Life as the only Indian film recognized in this category this year, highlighting the exceptional talent of the Indian sound design community on an international stage.
The Goat Life is a gripping drama based on the acclaimed 2008 novel "Aadujeevitham" by Benyamin. Directed by Blessy, the film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead role, portraying Najeeb Muhammad, a man from Kerala who travels to Saudi Arabia in 1991 seeking better opportunities for his family.
Instead of finding the promised employment, Najeeb is deceived by an individual posing as his employer and is forced to work under harsh conditions on a goat farm in the desert.
Enduring years of scarcity, including limited food and water, and the degrading experience of being forced to sleep among goats, Najeeb's resilience is tested to its limits. His eventual escape, aided by a fellow goatherd, highlights themes of survival, hope, and the enduring human spirit.
Led by Supervising Sound Editors Resul Pookutty, CAS, MPSE and Vijaykumar Mahadevia MPSE , along with Sound Effects Editor Arun Rana and Foley Editor Vijaykumar Mahadevia MPSE, Dialogue Editor Moushumi Ghosh, the team has created an immersive auditory experience that significantly enhances the film's storytelling.
Foley Artists Andriy Ryzhov, Ruslan Shebistyi, Andriy Stariovsky, and Boggan Zavarzin contributed their expertise to craft realistic and emotionally resonant soundscapes that bring the harsh desert environment and the protagonist's struggles to life.
Expressing his gratitude, Vijaykumar Mahadevia MPSE stated, "Being nominated for this award is a testament to the hard work and creativity of our entire team. Recognition from MPSE, the world's foremost guild of Sound Designers, motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of sound design in Indian cinema."
Resul Pookutty MPSE, an Academy Award-winning sound designer, added, "This nomination not only elevates The Goat Life but also provides a significant boost as we approach the Oscar run for Best Film, with voting opening this week.”