Patriarchy, sexism and misogyny often work in tandem to the point of depriving a woman completely of agency, especially if she's a housewife who is financially dependent on her husband. The film is an exploration of the same dynamics by introducing us to the story of an average Indian household. It is a loving family of three members and the scene is of a rushed morning when, as the mother prepares the food, and the father hurries to leave for work, their daughter comes home to visit them. Amidst the worries to marry her off to a suitable partner, and the constant push and pull between parents and children that is common in many houses, another narrative develops. The father has a secret that threatens to throw this household completely out of balance, and this is when the daughter decides to ensure her mother is no longer subjected to the same fixed dictums of a patriarchal set-up she has already had to give up so much for. The film also has a message about second chances and people's ability to redeem themselves once they have been led to the realisation of the wrongs done by them. At the heart of the story remains an important reminder for the viewer and the manner they have been conditioned to see the world, often at the cost of the happiness and mental peace of innumerable women.

Suta | Short Film Nominee

As we get tied up in the responsibilities and the many roles that have to be played in adulthood, we often neglect, and sometimes even choose to forget, a crucial part of our identity - the innocence and lightheartedness of the child within us. It is precisely this spirit of carefreeness that keeps us going even in the most difficult circumstances, ensuring that we never lose perspective. The short film engages with these thoughts to bring to life a narrative with an unexpected course and movement. Yogi, a man in his fifties, one day stumbles across a child who refuses to leave his side. First he asks him for a lift, then he somehow finds his way to our protagonist's home where he enjoys a hearty meal. When the protagonist gets suspicious of his activities, he turns the curious child away from his house with a warning. However, as life would have it, he is still unable to sleep in peace and finds his way back to the same child again. Once he brings him back home, the two spend the night chatting, eating ice cream, until the protagonist eventually falls asleep. When Yogi wakes up in the morning, a revelatory development awaits both him and the viewer, allowing the film its final endeavor to successfully present its intentions to the viewer.

Chhotu | Short Film Nominee

Sincere and dedicated in its intention and effort, Heroes puts forth a story of an old age home. Marked by the experiences of its occupants, it harbours innumerable moments of emotions across the spectrum. If it invokes humour and comedic moments, it is also constituted by silent tears, and unspoken and unheard misery. While accentuating the importance of families in our lives, it also aims to be a glimpse into the loneliness and plight of many, if not all, residents of a facility like the one the film engages with. Overall, the film remains an honest attempt, marked by its absence of any dialogue, that wants to do its bit to add to the conversation on the isolation of old age, as well as on the significance of family in our lives.

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