By Casey Monteiro
In a world where people bemoan how technology is increasingly and adversely affecting youngsters, the short Konkani film, Carlo, based on the true story of an Italian youngster, Carlo Acutis, who 'virtually' (pun intended) used technology to embark on the journey to sainthood, is showing us the positive side to technology – how it can be used to make a difference in the lives of others lives and draw them to God.
Written and directed by Rev Dr Leslie Bosco Rego, this film is targeted towards the youth and teens, says Fr Leslie.
WHY A FILM ON CARLO?
Ask Fr Leslie how he narrowed down his options to make a movie on Carlo, and he replies, “Blessed Carlo Acutis (from Italy) is a modern generation saint, a powerful inspiration to all youth, teenagers and kids who are glued to mobile phones, laptops and all types of hi-tech gadgets.”
Fr Leslie, who is also the parish priest, Shiroda, Ponda, continues, emphasizing how important it is to make this world a better place and how Carlo sets a fine example in this direction.
Carlo was beatified in the year 2020 by the Roman Catholic Church. Beatification is a step towards being proclaimed a saint.
OVERWHELMING RESPONSE
The movie which was shot across various places in Goa, such as Merces, Batim and Bambolim, has so far got an excellent response. “The response was beyond my expectations,” says Fr Leslie. “People flocked to watch it.”
Carlo even bagged the Honorary Award at the 79th Punyatithi of Dadasaheb Phalke. “Besides the honorary award,” informs Fr Leslie, “we also won Best Regional Film and Best Line Producer Award at the Global Taj International Film Festival (GTIFF) at Agra.” All this gives us a boost to go forward, feels Fr Leslie.
INITIAL GLITCHES
The making of the movie had several unexpected obstacles. It was planned to release the movie within six months, however, the project stretched to over 18 months.
Recalling the hard times, Fr Leslie says, “We had to finish the project within the time limit, but at a certain point of time, the project was not moving due to technical problems. We had to change the editor so also some shots had to be added, however my friend Dadadiraj Shirodkar helped me out in shooting and editing.”
TAPPING KONKANI-SPEAKING AUDIENCES
In order to reach a wider audience, Fr Leslie says that they have gone beyond a theatrical release. Konkani cinema is gaining momentum, he opines.
“We have screened the movie at ESG, Maquinez Palace, Panjim, and that had a marvellous response. We have screened Carlo in church parishes, too. Goans are more fond of tiatr and dramas, most of which are staged in public halls. However, there are also films which are screened in these venues, and the response is also fair enough,” says he.
WHERE THERE’S A WILL, THERE’S A WAY
Fr Leslie, who has earlier directed Bhavartachi Yatra (Journey of Faith), Mhoje-xim Yeyat (Come to me), Tumi Mhoje Govai! (You are My Witnesses), and the docu-film Treasure Shattered! in English, says that time is never a constraint in his, otherwise, busy life as a priest.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way! Time is not a problem. If you think you have little time, you will end up doing nothing! If you think positively, even if you have a busy schedule, you will be able to make time for your passion. We have to be like live wires, always on our feet,” he concludes.
For further information regarding the film, its shows, availability of passes and bookings, contact +91 8830 161753
