‘Gum-e-Daura’ is a mellow invocation of Hindustani by way of the dialogue the characters exchange. However, its thematic concerns are far from the mood and tenor that the viewer might expect at first glance. They talk of a world where bills have to be paid, ailing family members need medicines and one’s passion and devotion to art does not always take care of financial troubles. 

Within these layers and complexities also lies a comment about the political realities of contemporary times where the protagonist lost his father to the violent crime of murder. All of this is portrayed for the viewer by way of a meeting between two lovers, a writer and his beloved, and thus presented to interact with.

Gum-e-Daura | Short Film Nominee

With truth as the primary preoccupation of the narrative, the film introduces us to Meisha, a girl who had found herself in the way of her father’s science experiment as a child, that eventually reduced her existence to that of a strange being. Unable to digest food or continue a regular life in any form, she survives solely on the radiation of other devices. At the same time, this life of isolation is further tied with secrets from the past, along with her father’s sudden and unexpected death in an accident years ago. 

As the viewer is taken deeper into Meisha’s life, and introduced to her sole friend and companion, Dhruv, a story of thrill and action develops. Though the film loses points in terms of its sound, and consequently, in the seamlessness of some of the performances, there is a dedicated endeavor of weaving an engaging story, and it would be interesting to see how it develops in subsequent parts of the film. Additionally, Snower Sania Vasudev as Meisha definitely remains an unmissable presence amidst it all.

Fidelity | Short Film Nominee

The film is an earnest glimpse into the struggles of three cinema professionals who are awaiting some form of return on their labors. By introducing us to Faizan, Varun, and Raju, the story constructs this reality for us in a sincere, authentic manner. 

The struggles of the characters further reveal the exploitation that is inherent in an industry modeled on taking advantage of people’s dreams and creative pursuits. The film’s visual development wavers a little sometimes, but the performances and the dedication of the cast and crew help it overcome this. 

A life of debt and disturbing financial and emotional uncertainty is invoked in the process. However, despite all the hardship and disillusionment, the message that remains central to the narrative, plot, and thus, the writing of the end result, is one of perseverance and hope. Even in the face of having hit rock bottom, the mustering of strength and finding that the only way is up become the firm string that ties the film together.

Ghost Writer | Short Film Nominee

When Pragati opens, it takes us into a meeting that is being held between men regarding the marriage of a young woman. As the soon-to-be bride’s father finalizes the details, a conflict brewing within the woman is revealed to the viewer. Constantly at unease, she is struggling to get out of the house. She insists that she is not interested in marriage, but rather would continue her studies. 

Amidst the push and pull of all of these forces, a very different and unexpected development also awaits the audience, which subverts everything the plot might have established so far. In the process, the short narrative also does its bit to share a comment about an important social concern.

Pragti | Short Film Nominee

While we all find ourselves quarantined at home following the coronavirus pandemic, uncertain of the future and life ahead, this short film has a simple, positive message to share with the viewer. It is a reminder to follow all precautions and health advisories, and to not let ourselves forget that with the right care and efforts, we will soon overcome it as well.

Jeetenge Hum Covid19 | Lockdown Film Challenge

By its own admission, the film is shot entirely on mobile phones without any of the team members leaving their house. The effort deserves appreciation, as does the desire to weave a narrative to celebrate the frontier warriors of the coronavirus pandemic - the health workers. The film simply pivots itself on the same premise. It is the story of a married couple which is far from each other, despite a deep longing for union. As the conversation between them progresses, it provides more details about their lives - introducing the viewer to their biggest obstacles, and yet the self-less sacrifice continues. It is only towards the end that the film truly reveals how all of it ties up with the unwavering determination and dedication of health workers all over the world.

Most Viewed

Genres

Awards

Follow Us

Quick Links