Director Semmalar Annam’s Tamil film ‘Mayilaa’ has received a nomination for the NETPAC Award at the 2026 International Film Festival of Rotterdam (IFFR). The film, which had its world premiere at the festival, portrays the journey of a young working woman towards dignity and independence. ‘Mayilaa’ garnered positive feedback from audiences during its screening at Rotterdam.
The NETPAC Award, presented by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema, honors exceptional Asian films that showcase creativity, cultural richness, and cinematic brilliance. This nomination signifies a significant milestone in the film’s global festival circuit.
‘Mayilaa’ is backed by filmmaker Pa. Ranjith and produced by Newton Cinema, established by Anto Chittilappally. The movie features P. Melody Dorcas in the lead role, with V. Shudar Kodi in a pivotal supporting role. The film’s technical team includes notable professionals like cinematographer Vinoth Janakiraman and editor A. Sreekar Prasad.
Director Semmalar Annam expressed gratitude for the NETPAC nomination, emphasizing the collective effort behind ‘Mayilaa.’ Anto Chittilappally, the founder of Newton Cinema, described the film’s journey from its premiere to the nomination as fulfilling and prideful. Filmmaker Pa. Ranjith praised ‘Mayilaa’ as a socially relevant and emotionally authentic creation deserving of international recognition.
The cast and crew of ‘Mayilaa’ shared their appreciation for the NETPAC nomination, highlighting the significance of the film’s reception at the world premiere and the subsequent acknowledgment. Sources close to the production reveal that ‘Mayilaa’ will continue its festival rounds with more international screenings in the upcoming months.
