The upcoming Bollywood musical Zubaan was the opening film at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) that is one of the most significant film fests in Asia.

For the first time ever, a commercial Bollywood movie that is helmed by a debutant was selected to open BIFF,which is a big honour for the film. Kim Ji-Seok, the festival director, said that he choseZubaanfor two reasons - firstly, its music and story felt therapeutic and secondly, his faith in Guneet Monga, who along with Shaan Vyas, has produced the film under their banner Sikhya Entertainment.

The gala premiere night saw the presence of some top Korean actors, filmmakers as well as Hollywood luminaries, besides the huge crowd that had gathered to cheer for the movie. Amidst resounding applause, the entire cast walked the red carpet.

The screening was kick started by debutant director Mozez Singh's heartfelt speech introducing his actors Vicky Kaushal,who has become a craze afterMasaan, Sarah-Jane Dias and Raaghav Chanana, and music composer Ashu Pathak.

The movie was lauded by the international press, which was impressed with the riveting performances, marvellous music and Mozez's skillful direction. For Mozez, the crowning glory is the fact that he also won the Rising Director Award at the Asia Star Awards. Everyone had a unanimous view; they felt Zubaanis truly a commercial film with the spirit of global cinema.