'LEFTOVER' at Cannes; Salim Ahamed says, 'I wanted to tell this story in a way that remains emotionally honest'

Salim Ahamed is surely one of Malayalam cinema’s most respected filmmakers. He earned national recognition with 'Adaminte Makan Abu', also known as 'Abu, Son of Adam'.


The film won four National Film Awards and was selected as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards. Salim later directed acclaimed films such as 'Pathemari', 'Kunjananthante Kada', and 'And The Oscar Goes To....'

According to the latest updates, at 2026 Cannes, operating from Booth Palais -1, 27.03, the makers announced 'LEFTOVER', Salim Ahamed's fifth feature film.

Salim Ahamed opens up about 'LEFTOVER'

With 'LEFTOVER', the director returns to a deeply human story. In a chat with ETimes, Salim Ahamed shared the inspiration behind the film.

He said, "LEFTOVER emerged from observing people who carry uncertainty, hope, and dignity through the emotional and economic realities of everyday life. While the film is deeply rooted in its own cultural landscape, the emotions and relationships within it can travel across borders. I wanted to tell this story in a way that remains emotionally honest while still connecting with audiences through strong characters, human drama, and cinematic experience.”

Ensemble cast and experienced crew in 'LEFTOVER'

'LEFTOVER' features a strong ensemble cast that includes Arjun Radhakrishnan, Zarin Shihab, Tanmay Dhanania, Shweta Basu Prasad, and Roshan Mathew.

The screenplay is written by Salim Ahamed and P. V. Shajikumar. The technical team includes cinematographer Sharan Velayudhan, editor A. Sreekar Prasad, and music composer Christo Xavier.

Also, Semmalar Annam’s 'MAYILAA' was screened at the 2026 Marché du Film in Cannes on May 12 at Lérins Cinéma Club. 'MAYILAA' recently had its world premiere at the International Film Festival Rotterdam and won the Audience Award at the Toulouse Indian Film Festival.


Meanwhile, 'LEFTOVER’s world premiere will be announced in the coming weeks.
On the other hand, Salim Ahamed's last film was the Tovino Thomas starrer 'And The Oscar Goes To....'Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”