The issues that the narrative addresses are urgent - those of marginalization and oppression. Cruelty meted out to a person based on their identity, be it caste or gender, or any other imagined or real idea, is condemnable in every way, and the narrative makes its agreement with the proposition loud and clear. It is the unequivocal manner of this articulation that becomes the force to drive the drama of the film. 'Unremembered' is further marked by skilled visuals, and a seamless progression that enhances the final result notably. The songs that constitute its background score remain chirpy, making the terrible events unfolding before you all the more jarring in their darkness. In the process, the film, albeit marked by a few wrinkles that require ironing, becomes an important story of the forgotten ones, the lives that fall between the cracks of society's hegemonic structures.

Unremembered | Short Film Nominee

The film operates within a realm of contrasts. Using the same frame where a girl sits before a mirror, looking at her reflection, the past and the present are conjured. What was once a place of girlhood and cheer has now become a sight of violence. 

The protagonist’s side was once occupied by companionship, a guardian to watch over her. However, now the space is defined by oppression and violence. All of these images are combined and presented to the viewer, employing a notable performance. The contrast is not simply visual, but audio distortion further serves to drive the message home. The final result employs controlled resources to bring its reality to life, keeping itself cohesive throughout.

Chameli | Short Film Nominee

The film is not for the inattentive viewer for it demands every ounce of your attention and thought in its brief duration to truly comprehend the progression of its events. The narrative opens with visuals of a visibly disturbed protagonist who seems to be battling an internal dilemma. Using hand-held and dimly-lit shots, the plot further establishes itself, roping in thematic concerns that include violence, religion and society's relationship with them - be it in the form of the constant deluge of news headlines or the perpetrators of these acts. While the film traverses the territory of the abstract to explore the several issues intrinsic to the plot, it also portrays a more personal concern - the ideas of identity and self. In a world that is constantly ravaged by all forms of violence, how will the protagonist truly locate himself?

Njan | Short Film Nominee

The opening visual is a dimly-lit shot of a young girl opening the door to a drunk and haggard man. As the plot develops, it reveals that he is the girl's father, and that arriving late in this condition is a regular aspect of their familial life. Inside the house, his displeased wife awaits him, reminding him of his duties that he is blatantly ignoring. Another scene with the daughter further shows how independent her life is of her family. The film engages with the topic of domestic abuse and the manner it can tear families apart. While the performances show potential that can be developed later, the sound production is an aspect of the film requiring some fine-tuning.

Yellow | Short Film Nominee

Owing to its patriarchal beliefs and conditioning, Indian society remains predominantly oppressive towards its women. The discrimination is pronounced further within the institution of marriage, as this short film goes ahead to portray. By tying images and symbolic visuals with dialogue, the narrative introduces us to intense conflict in a couple's life. The final result, thus, presents a story of the wrongs done to a woman which could very well be the wrongs done to any woman across the country. I Am, though a little rough around the edges, remains a devoted endeavor to contribute to an immensely relevant conversation, while also presenting to the viewer the interesting prospect of more similar projects by the young team.

I Am | Short Film Nominee

Centering itself around a mundane object like a glass of black tea, the short film takes the viewer into the life of a woman. As she perseveres daily to keep her family up on its feet, she is met with several obstacles. From disagreeing with her husband, to ensuring that the family’s financial security is intact, she braves it all, equipped simply with her black tea. Sometimes it waits patiently and loses its steam in the process. Other times, it sizzles and flares in a saucepan. Either way, it is always waiting, silently and loyally, being a quiet sign of dedication, self-sacrifice and strength.

Bhuvanesh A S

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