On a seemingly regular afternoon, a man exploits a hapless chaat-seller along a roadside, as two school-girls discuss a recent accident that had taken place near-by. While the former exchange can still fall within the boundaries of a mundane encounter, defined by stinginess and helplessness, the mention of the accident hints at something darker unfolding simultaneously. 

The film’s world-building thereafter remains gradual, marked by an eeriness that is aided greatly by a careful choice of the background score, as well as a crucial, strong performance by Akhilendra Mishra. 

With the progression of the story, the protagonist continues to stumble across crisp notes of twenty rupees as he continues on his path. Unable to look away, he finds them in a murky pool of water or in obscure spots high up in the air. Despite frantic calls from his impatient daughter, he still refuses to focus on the path, until he reaches a point from where there is no turning back. The journey thus mapped out by the narrative is engaging, involving, and at last, deeply shocking.

Bārāt | Short Film of the Month

Adopting an interesting approach, the short film puts forth its premise - one about the protagonist's search for something. As he moves from one untidy, cluttered physical space to another, what is it that he is truly looking for and will his pursuit have a positive outcome?

Where Is It? | Lockdown Film Challenge

When the film opens, we are introduced to a visibly harried man who is looking for someone called Jugni. At this juncture, the viewer is kept unaware if Jugni is a pet, a child or perhaps someone else. The narrative gradually reveals it to be not only a doll, but also an indispensable companion to the protagonist. As he begins to detail his day for the doll, we are allowed a deeper glimpse into this relationship. Though such a premise could eventually lead to a more grim mood, the idea of a man living by himself and constantly invested in an engaging conversation with an inanimate object, the narrative chooses to not go down that road. It instead shows the man's reliance on the doll. This is followed by his neglect towards it when life gets him preoccupied with other people, only to find his way back to it again as fate deals him a card defined by betrayal, heartache and hurt.

Jugni | Short Film Nominee

The protagonist of Abhishek brings to the screen a dedication to teetotalism that is indeed notable in the film. As he is faced with loss, failure and deep pain, he finds himself considering the option of having a drink to ease his agony. This is further amplified by peer pressure and the desire to be liked by those around him. Thus begins a long and tough battle between his life choices and a desire to give in to what seems to be the simpler path to tread upon, perhaps one at the end of which lies at least some alleviation of his pain. However, when he finds himself at this crossroad, what would he eventually choose?

Bottoms Up | Short Film Nominee

The short film adopts an experimental approach to put forth its message. The frame is a neat, minimalist one with a single pair of a woman's feet. As she walks across to the centre in her pumps, she soon finds herself joined by another pair. Sleek and suave looking black-coloured shoes make their way towards the pumps, followed by a pair of white sneakers immediately after. As both try to win her favour, she is impressed by neither and chooses a corner for herself, away from them. The narrative attempts to be a comment on how empty, shallow and superficial some relationships can be. On the other hand, not much is needed for genuine companionship to thrive, it suggests further.

DHAWAN

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