MUMBAI:

The screening of Michael Winterbottom’s A Mighty Heart at Cannes Film Festival was an emotional experience for Irrfan Khan who plays the head of a Pakistani counter-terrorism unit in the film.

The film got an overwhelming response. “The applause went on for 10 minutes after the film ended,” Irrfan said.

Apparently, Mariane Pearl, on whose life it is based, loved Irrfan’s performance. “Everyone has been deeply appreciative,” said Irrfan who walked the red carpet dressed in an Armani outfit. “The walk on the red carpet was memorable because we were representing a film that has tried to tell the truth about what happened to Daniel Pearl. We weren’t there for a glamour parade.”

The actor, who got rave reviews for his performance in the film, said, “This is the first time for me in Cannes. And I feel elated. The glamour, creativity, photo shoots and press conferences are all so unreal and yet part of cinematic reality. With The Namesake and A Mighty Heart I’m being recognised over here at Cannes. I hope it lasts.”