Celluloid Man (2012)

"Celluloid Man" is a heartfelt tribute to India's foremost film preservationist, P.K. Nair, a man whose life was intricately woven with the fabric of cinema. From his early days as a child collecting ticket stubs, lobby cards, and film cans, Nair's passion for cinema was as vibrant as the frames of a film reel. This affectionate obsession led to the creation of the National Film Archive of India, a monument to the nation's cinematic heritage built can by can by Nair in a society where film preservation was largely overlooked. Nair's role in safeguarding India's celluloid history is unparalleled. Out of the estimated 1338 silent films produced in India, nine are still in existence solely due to his relentless efforts. Moreover, he ensured that Dadasaheb Phalke, the pioneer of Indian cinema, secured his rightful place in history. Nair was not just an archivist but a living encyclopedia of cinema. His extraordinary memory could pinpoint specific scenes within the vast sea of reels, illustrating his deep understanding and respect for the art form. His influence extended to the Indian New Wave filmmakers, including Mani Kaul, Kumar Shahani, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, and John Abraham, who drew from his vast knowledge. As Nair shares his story, we witness the evolution of Indian cinema and the poignant loss of its film heritage. "Celluloid Man" is more than a film; it is a testament to a man who lived, breathed, dreamt, and spoke cinema. Known as the Henri Langlois of India, Nair singlehandedly ensured that India's film legacy endured. Through his eyes, we see not just the narrative of one man, but the unfolding story of Indian cinema itself.

Celluloid Man is a documentary movie featuring P. K. Nair and directed by Shivendra Singh Dungarpur.

Celluloid Man is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.