In a time when global cinema is more interconnected than ever, a notable achievement has come from a school in Dubai. A ninth-grade student at Gems Modern Academy (GMA) is captivating viewers with her role in an Indo-Jordanian movie, highlighting the capabilities of young performers and the benefits of cross-cultural collaborations in film. The film, titled 'Yellow Bus', has received international recognition. It was released on OSN+ in the UAE and in cinemas across Saudi Arabia, where it has enchanted both audiences and critics.
Aarushi Laud's performance in 'Yellow Bus' marks a significant step in her emerging acting career and has earned her notable awards. The film has won the World Vision Award for Best Film at the Cinequest Film Festival in San Jose, California, and the Best Film Award at the Johannesburg Film Festival in South Africa. Its world premiere was at the Toronto International Film Festival, with the Asia premiere at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival in India. The film was also showcased at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai.
The film 'Yellow Bus' is inspired by real-life incidents where school children suffered fatal accidents after being left in overheated school buses. It follows the story of an Indian woman living in the Gulf who, after discovering her daughter was left to die in a school bus in the scorching desert heat, relentlessly seeks truth and justice.
Aarushi Laud, who played the sister of the deceased girl in the film, shared her mixed emotions during the shooting with Khaleej Times. She described her initial excitement turning to nervousness upon seeing the large filming equipment and set. However, she credited the film's writer and director, Wendy Bednarz from NYU Abu Dhabi, for helping her feel comfortable with the other actors. Despite some challenging scenes and the need for multiple takes, Aarushi found the experience both tiring and fun, with the shooting lasting about a month in Abu Dhabi.
Aarushi, who had previously auditioned for some advertisements, came across the 'Yellow Bus' project by chance. Despite the film's shooting coinciding with her Grade 6 Term II exams, her school supported her decision to participate in the project. Aarushi, who is also passionate about singing and has completed her Grade 8 vocal Trinity exam from London, aspires to pursue a career in both singing and acting, looking to explore opportunities in the UAE and the US.
