A woman is getting late for her train, and as she waits for the cab on the side of the road, she runs into the most unexpected person from her past. Rahi finds herself face to face with Arjun, her first love with whom she had had a relationship of several years before its abrupt end. However, none of this is revealed to the viewer right away, and instead, we are presented with Shaurya, Rahi’s current partner. 
As the three are confined to the car ride, the story develops. In the process, the narrative invokes first loves, mistakes, regrets, and what it means to be consumed by another person. Much of the visual development takes place in the rearview mirror of the car, a notable deliberate choice of the film. There is also the attempt to present an interaction between two men that is controlled and mature, unlike the sense of aggression and chaos that often plagues such equations in media. The end result comes across as being sincere, heartfelt, and thus, in some aspects, endearing as well.

Time Machine | Short Film Nominee

The story opens with two people, Ayushi and Rahul, in the middle of an extremely heated argument which gives way to a very violent act. The episode is soon revealed to be a rehearsed performance, and the night seemingly concludes in peace. However, this has already set the tone for what is to come - a violent act that will continue to propel the narrative forward throughout.
 
Later in the night, Ayushi’s murder by stabbing brings to light primarily three suspects, with all of whom she has a romantic equation or history. Her fiancé, a current lover, and a former lover, Rahul, Raghav and Aryan, respectively, are ensnared within this trap. As the plot progresses, layers are gradually revealed until the film is taken home to its decisive conclusion. 
The film is a sincere endeavor of a young team that exhibits deep potential. While the voice and the overall feel might be a little young, the rough edges are smoothly rounded off by the earnestness and honesty of the cast and crew.

Another Murder Story | Short Film Nominee

The narratorial approach of the film is marked by attempted metaphors and symbolism. Its message wants to cover several issues which include past traumas, loss, abuse and a sense of social anxiety that leads to the inability to participate with one’s peers. Thoughts continue to flow in a stream of consciousness, drowning the protagonist in their current, and bringing with them triggers that lead to terrible consequences. 

The twenty-two-year-old boy struggles to pay the cost of artistic genius. However, his repressed, bottled thoughts eventually find a vent. There is further the desire to invoke a cycle of violence that long-term abuse can put into place, while the abuser himself struggles to drown their sorrows in excesses. As the long denied emotions are finally allowed an outlet, shocking developments await the protagonist and those around him. ‘R&B’, which can perhaps be read as Red and Black, thus presents its story to you, one that only blurs the line between what is real and what isn’t. Though a little raw and rough around the edges, and marked by limited resources, the final result is a dedicated attempt at storytelling.

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