The film packs all the punches of a quintessential drama - there is romance, heartbreak, friendship, comedic moments, and the protagonist's unwavering persistence of following his dream of becoming a filmmaker. It is in this pursuit that the plot perhaps blurs the line between art and real life for the viewer, simply on the basis of the universal and relatable nature of the premise. It won't be erroneous to have several viewers seeing themselves reflected in the struggles of the protagonist as he endeavours to go against all obstacles that include nepotism, financial might of his peers and counterparts, and even the mischief of those who revel in his failures while donning the garb of well-wishers. Written & Directed By succeeds in its devotion and dedication to storytelling, to allow its narrative to unfold for its audience in the manner it does. It puts together a logical progression of events, involving, entertaining and surprising the audience in equal measure with its turn of events. The camerawork is notable, further supplemented by familiar faces from the realms of cinema and the web space. The film, however, could have benefited from an overall finesse that would have allowed it to be more than what it already is - a feel-good, engaging and well-rounded product.

Written & Directed By | Short Film Nominee

The ad film carries with it a significantly important message that becomes more and more relevant in contemporary times where the planet wages a tough battle against environmental destruction. The narrative is short and crisp and succeeds in communicating its message in a lucid, comprehensive manner. The comment it offers is about how devotion to religion and festivities is not determined by materialism of any kind, and all that it requires is faith. Secondly, there is further a reminder for the viewer, with especial focus on Ganesh Chaturthi, to not let their devotion lead them to perhaps unknowingly indulge in a practice which pollutes their surroundings. The film is quiet and sincere in sharing its message, and reminds the audience to simply be more mindful of their observation and practices.

Belief | Short Film Nominee

Aai Ani Dabba is essentially an inspiring and honest story of overcoming obstacles to truly secure the success you deserve. It achieves the same by taking the viewer into the life of a woman who delivers food tiffins to people. A layered protagonist is offered through an engagement with Sunita Padaul's story who had begun her business in the face of lack of support and implicit opposition from her family. Starting her day at six in the morning, and never allowing the hard work of the endeavour to daunt her, there has been no looking back for Padaul who straddles the familial as well as the professional space with elan and dedication. The film, in this manner, becomes a celebration of commitment, indomitable will and resolve, and a woman's desire to take care of her family, irrespective of the odds she is faced with. The documentary in itself is an example of promise and potential on the part of the team, leaving the door open for more such films and stories from them.

Aai Ani Dabba | Short Film Nominee

The narrative of the film is simple and direct, and aims to address some relevant concerns of contemporary times. The entirety of the film is constituted by visuals of a video call between two lovers. The plot develops to reveal that while one of them is a health worker, the other is a young police officer. By invoking the reality of a world where the members of these two professions have been subjected to immense hostility and sometimes even violence by the people, the plot makes a subtle attempt to celebrate them. This is achieved along with the reminder for society to realise who their true heroes and protectors are. Further, the performance of its only two actors exhibit potential and brings to screen a convincing chemistry.

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