The narrative opens with the voice of a sole character, and his misadventures in the world of dating. However, after the reality that unfolded in his past experiences, the one he now presents to his listener is the exact opposite. 

The layers get peeled in order to conjure a world of rejections, denial and always the same dead end in the pursuit of love. Through the many shared stories, the protagonist’s worldview as well as his ideas on love in the modern day, are brought to life, whether or not they seem consistent with his efforts. As notions of relationships and dating are discussed, little do the viewer and the protagonist realize that there awaits them an event that would stick out its head suddenly and unexpectedly and, in the process, justify the film's title.

Woah! | Short Film Nominee

A woman arrives at a house to be greeted by a welcoming father. However, this is not a usual meeting between two family members, her furtive glances at her phone screen convey that. The apparent lack of the age difference between the two further asserts the unease that is gradually becoming inherent to the circumstance. 
The plot develops to reveal the role of technology in simulating a reality that once was, allowing Sia to revisit her past. In the process, a conversation on loss, grief, longing, and the need to eventually move on is presented to the viewer. Even if the production value of the end result is slightly hindered by the sound and a smattering of inconsistent visuals, the story throughout remains marked by a gentle quietness and sincerity of thought.

Mulaqaat | Short Film Nominee

A man is gearing for a mission. He shares with the viewer his conflicts, dilemmas and purpose, and
attributes them to humanity. He says that it was out of compassion for mankind that he was
inspired to take the path, and clarifies that his aim had nothing to do with organised religion, a
qualification that is highly valued. Bordering on agnosticism, the protagonist still wants to compel the Almighty, if there be one, to give him
the answers he is looking for. Though the man is portrayed as a stalker, it is him the gaze of the film is focused at, as though stalking the stalker himself. It is clear that the act he has planned is one of terror. The rest of the narrative is simply about letting it unfold organically. Marked by skilled camerawork and a notable voiceover, the film is a sincere endeavour to be engaging.

Maqsad | Short Film Nominee

The short film engages with an important conversation around mental health and focuses on body dysmorphia. By making efficient use of limited space, the narrative makes a powerful attempt to show a young girl's struggle to accept herself. The title and the frames convey a sense of claustrophobia and being trapped inside a cycle of self-hate and the eventual rejection of the self. Writing, cinematography, direction and performance - all exhibit great potential in the film and we can expect some good work from the team in the future.

Confined | Short Film Nominee

The narrative follows a non-linear movement and alternates between the visuals of a man who is driving to an undisclosed destination by himself, and of a past memory of him with his beloved. As the couple discusses a serious imminent surgery, the plot invokes drama, intimacy, uncertainty and the fear of the unknown. Aspiring to be a story of the heartache of seeing a loved one go through a painful experience, along with the fear of losing them, the film brings its reality to life by intertwining the past with the present. In the process, it becomes a heartfelt story for the viewer to interact with.

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