Priyanka Chopra Jonas backs We Were Here, an Oscar-qualified Indian comedy about three retired men who declare war on AI by impersonating household appliances
MUMBAI: Three retired Indian men declare war on artificial intelligence (AI) by pretending to be household appliances in We Were Here, an award-winning short film backed by Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Directed by Pranav Bhasin, the unconventional comedy has qualified for consideration at the 2027 Academy Awards.
The film follows three elderly friends who believe machines are taking over human jobs. Their unusual protest sees them impersonate everyday appliances, turning their rebellion against technology into a humorous yet emotional exploration of ageing, unemployment and human relevance.
Priyanka Chopra joins the war on AI
Priyanka Chopra Jonas has joined the project as executive producer alongside actor Andrew Scott and Tony Award-winning playwright V, formerly known as Eve Ensler. Chopra described the film as a refreshing and witty exploration of a timely subject, expressing enthusiasm for supporting its creative team and bringing Indian independent storytelling to global audiences.
The film has screened at over 80 international festivals and collected more than 20 awards, including recognition at SXSW and Palm Springs International ShortFest. Its Palm Springs victory secured eligibility for the 2027 Oscars. The New Yorker has also acquired the film for release through its digital channels.
Indian cinema challenges AI narratives
Unlike conventional science-fiction thrillers depicting machines taking over humanity, We Were Here examines the fear of becoming irrelevant in a rapidly changing world.Similarly, Aranya Sahay’s Humans in the Loop explores AI bias through the experiences of an Adivasi woman working as a data labeller in Jharkhand. Together, these films highlight how Indian independent filmmakers are exploring technology through identity, dignity and human relationships.
Impact to Expect
Priyanka Chopra’s involvement could boost the film’s international visibility and strengthen its Oscars campaign while encouraging filmmakers to explore AI through relatable human experiences rather than dystopian narratives.
