Lost Film of Shah Rukh Khan's Debut Rediscovered

Nearly four decades after its initial airing, a restored version of the 1989 television film "In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones" is slated for its world premiere in the Berlinale Classics section of the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival. Written by Booker Prize winner Arundhati Roy and directed by Pradip Krishen, the film offers a window into the lives of architecture students in Delhi during the late 1980s.

The Film Heritage Foundation has initiated the restoration process, aiming to reintroduce this significant work to contemporary audiences. A theatrical release across India is planned for March, with deliberately low ticket prices to engage younger viewers. The foundation emphasizes the film's importance in its dialogue and portrayal of college life, noting its unusual character focus and authentic depiction of student experiences.

"In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones" holds a unique place in Indian cinema, noted as India's first English-language feature film. It chronicles the final year of students at Delhi's School of Planning and Architecture, capturing their idealism, frustrations, and debates on various subjects. The film notably features the screen debut of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and stars Arundhati Roy herself in a supporting role.

Its return to the screen highlights a period when Indian state broadcasters were more permissive of youth culture and social critique. The film's restoration, driven by rediscovered materials, involved meticulous technical work to overcome fading colors and soundtrack issues. Its enduring relevance stems from its sharp portrayal of institutional dynamics and student rebellion, issues that continue to resonate today.