The Pool is the story of Venkatesh, a hotel worker in India, who sees from his perch in a mango tree a luxuriant garden and shimmering pool hidden behind a wall. In making whatever efforts he can to better himself, Venkatesh offers his services to the wealthy owner of the home. Not content to simply dream about a different life, Venkatesh is inquisitive about the home's inhabitants-indeed, about the world around him-and his curiosity changes the shape of his future. Working in Hindi with young actors and in a country not his own, Director Chris Smith (American Movie, The Yes men) has nevertheless created a superbly incisive portrait that will move and delight you. Winner: Special Jury Price Sundance Film Festival