New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS): "Island City", an Indian film backed by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and directed by Ruchika Oberoi, has won the FEDEORA (Federation of Film Critics of Europe and the Mediterranean) award for the 'Best Young Director'.

Starring Vinay Pathak, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Amruta Subhash and Chandan Roy Sanyal in pivotal roles, the Hindi feature is produced under the information and broadcasting ministry's 12th Five-Year Plan scheme on film production.

It had its world premiere in the competition category of the Venice Days sidebar of the 72nd Venice Film Festival on September 8.

Oberoi, who has made her directorial debut with the project, feels honoured.

"I'm honoured to have this recognition bestowed by such a distinguished jury, especially with so many deserving films competing. I'd really like to thank the Venice Days selectors and team for providing such a wonderful platform for our film and for their support and warm hospitality," Oberoi said in a statement.

The jury that awarded the director praised the film in their citation by saying: "'Island City' stood out for its surrealistic vision of a quasi-modern world, which is also rooted in the realities of everyday life."

Its screening itself opened to a packed audience that cheered and applauded the film with a standing ovation.

Vikramjit Roy, head of Sales and Marketing at NFDC, said: “We are delighted at the acclaim won by 'Island City' at the Venice Film Festival and celebrate Ruchika's recognition at such a prestigious festival.

"The film's success can be attributed to NFDC's value chain that starts with training and development and transcends in our endeavour to promote the Cinemas of India across the world.”

FEDEORA is constituted of individual professional film critics from European and Mediterranean countries. Among its aims are forming juries and presenting awards at relevant international festivals.