Following its world première at the Toronto International Film Festival 2023, Wendy Bednarz’s directorial debut film, Yellow Bus, is set for its Asia première on November 2 at Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2023. The Tannishtha Chatterjee and Amit Sial-starrer explores the themes of loss, betrayal, and the ultimate triumph of the human spirit after emotionally processing a life-changing loss.

Set against the backdrop of the Middle East, Yellow Bus follows the story of a hopeful migrant mother, Ananda (played by Chatterjee), who is shattered by a tragic life-turning incident. In search of the truth behind her daughter’s death, Ananda grapples with pain and the emotional turmoil faced by migrants who move to foreign lands with aspirations of a better life.

Speaking of the Asia première, Bednarz said, “The story is a heartfelt exploration of the human experience and a mother’s worst nightmare as she fights for justice in a foreign land and learns to forgive those whom she holds accountable, including herself. I am grateful to producers Nadia Eliewat and Guneet Monga Kapoor for empowering Yellow Bus with a platform and Tannishtha, whose riveting performance captures a mother’s pain with grace and sensitivity.”

Admitting that it was hard to step into the shoes of Ananda, Chatterjee said, “Giving voice to this woman’s struggle of being unheard, especially in an environment that doesn’t favour her, was an emotional journey. Women are often left to struggle with unprecedented situations. I am glad that I could be part of this film that showcases a plethora of emotions in such a nuanced way.”

Heaping praise on the director’s vision, Sial added, “It was a privilege working with my wonderful writer-director, Wendy, who so beautifully crafted the emotions in us, day by day.”

The film is a collaborative effort between Indian, Jordanian, Emirati, and American production houses, including Screen Project, Metatron Productions, OSN, Creative Venture, Sikhya Entertainment, and Ta Films.