The short film wants to discuss the paranoia that is capable of worsening our contemporary pandemic-ridden reality and make it more difficult for everyone. This, in turn, can alienate one further from the much-needed hope and positivity to overcome the gloom that has cast its pall over the world in the form of the coronavirus. The plot of the film engages with these concerns by means of a theatre production which is underway. As the actors rehearse lines from Dharamvir Bharati's Andha Yug, a philosophical concern forms the core argument of the narrative - one about the immediate reality that one can choose to bring to life depending on their worldview. A key actor, after contracting the virus, has taken time off rehearsals to complete his quarantine. However, when he still does not turn up after making a complete recovery, things begin to go downhill for the production. While taking all necessary precautions is of utmost importance during this pandemic, there is also a comment to be made about learning to move ahead while keeping up with the times, suggests the film. Irrespective of the side of the argument the viewer would find themselves on, the film makes its position clear, adopting a theatrical and poetic approach to share the same intentions.

Navyug | 2020 Film Challenge

The film has a tone which is balanced with both seriousness and lightness. It is also educational in nature, serving as a reminder for the viewer to be on their watch, looking after their health as well as of those around them, while never letting their guard down when it comes to safety measures against the coronavirus. However, the initial portrayal and introduction of the anthropomorphic version of the virus employs racial stereotypes in terms of puns, music, sound effects and the accent of the character. Those could have been avoided to allow the short video to be more than what it already is.

Manoj Nair

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