Shirley Abraham and Amit Madheshiya, The Cinema Travellers (2016)

FILMS AT THE WHITNEY

This 2016 documentary follows the touring troupes—on lorries hauling movie reels, projectors, and tents—who bring the wonder of the movies to fairs and festivals in rural villages throughout India. As their projectors crumble, film reels become scarce, and their patrons are lured by slick digital technology, the men continue working to keep the last traveling cinemas of the world running. Shot over five years, this gentle film celebrates the magic of film in a changing world. The Cinema Travellers premiered as an Official Selection at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival and won the Golden Eye award.