Jude Anthany Joseph, the director of the Malayalam film 2018: Everyone is a Hero, which has been selected as India's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th Academy Awards, recently met with legendary actor Rajinikanth in Thiruvananthapuram. Rajini extended his wishes for the film's Oscar journey during the interaction.  Jude shared the news through his social media handles.

Along with Jude, the film's producers, Venu Kunnaappilly and Anto Joseph, have also met the veteran. Taking to his social media handle, Jude shared a few pictures of the occasion and captioned, "Thalaiver said, "What a film, Jude, how did you shoot? Amazing work". N then we sought his blessings for the Oscar journey. Thalaiver said, "Poyi Oscar kondu vaa, my blessings n prayers". Thank you God for this unforgettable opportunity. N Thank you my dear friend Soundharya for making this happen" (sic) 

2018 has been chosen from 22 films that made it to the final round of contention. The film stars an ensemble cast including Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali, Vineeth Sreenivasan, Lal, Aparna Balamurali, Kalaiyarasan and Narain, among others.

Meanwhile, Rajini has been in Kerala since earlier this week for the shooting of his tentatively titled film Thalaivar 170, directed by  TJ Gnanavel and featuring an ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Manju Warrier, Rana Daggubati, Dushara Vijayan and Rithika Singh. The upcoming film is backed by Lyca Productions. 

Meanwhile, Jude has signed an upcoming film with Lyca, speculated to be featuring Vijay Sethupathi in the lead role.