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 film presents an interesting overlap of the digital space with filmmaking. It positions two characters on the same plane - Simran, an aspiring actor on the sets of a film that has the power to launch her career, and Pia, a social media figure whose star is on a meteoric rise, and who works as an intimacy coordinator on the same film. 

Between the two stands Akaash who has helped Simran land this role in the first place. The choice of characters and the interpersonal equations the plot brings to life all present a dynamic array. The storytelling is further defined by an unmissable voice that engages with ideas of ambition and the insecurity that can often follow in its wake. 

Notwithstanding a little looseness in the screenplay, the final result is put together with thoughtfulness. The tonality evidences skill and the promise of further exploration of the themes and relationships thus presented in the film.

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