Actor-producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas has joined the Indian short film We Were Here, directed by Pranav Bhasin, as an executive producer to support its upcoming Academy Awards campaign.
The Oscar-qualified comedy follows three retired men in a small Indian town who protest the rise of automated machines by pretending to be household appliances.
Their quirky resistance takes an unexpected turn when a child joins an artificial intelligence firm. Written and directed by Bhasin, the film explores themes of employment, modern technology, and human obsolescence.
Chopra Jonas stated she was drawn to the project for its timely and witty perspective, aiming to amplify the team’s original vision. Alongside Chopra Jonas, the project has added acclaimed actor Andrew Scott and Tony Award-winning playwright V as executive producers.
Having screened at over 80 international festivals, We Were Here has claimed more than 20 awards, including wins at South by Southwest and the Palm Springs International ShortFest, which secured its Academy Award eligibility.
Produced by Yash Gonsai, Dheer Momaya, and Dar Gai, the film was also acquired by The New Yorker for its official premiere. Director Bhasin noted that securing backing from such prominent global names is a surreal milestone as the project enters the awards season.
