From its opening scenes, this film will grip you with its tender freshness and unexpected LOL moments: a rare cinematic treat from Manipur, India.

Schoolboy Boong (Gugun Kipgen) is on a quest to give his mother the ultimate gift – the return of his absent father.

After leaving their home city of Manipur, India for the border city of Moreh, near Myanmar, in search of better job opportunities, Boong’s father Joykumar stopped communications. Now rumours of his death are circulating and Boong is determined to find out the truth and bring him home. Enlisting the help of his best friend Raju (Angom Sanamatum), the pair embark on a risky journey, armed only with a photo and a strong belief in the magical power of an 80s pop icon, Madonna, to reunite Boong’s family.

Lakshmipriya Devi’s directorial debut is a vibrant, comedic portrayal of childhood innocence and resilience. Newcomers Gugun Kipgen and Angom Sanamatum give endearing performances in this coming-of-age drama full of laugh-out-loud moments. Devi’s poignant example of the power of young friendship to transcend prejudice is a necessary reminder, as ethnic tensions turn to violence in Manipur today, forcing many of the crew and cast to flee their homes.