This short film, starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and directed by Nandita Das, works as the perfect prelude to the full-length feature film Manto soon to make an appearance on the silver screen. Nawazuddin is as convincing as Manto in the film as he has been in all of his prior roles. <br><br>The film is a deep and insightful commentary on society which attempts to hide its vulgarities and inherent contradictions by attacking the artist who simply holds a mirror to it. It's not the art which is ugly, but the reflection of the critic who attacks the former with misguided rage. If nothing at all, In Defence of Freedom, handled extremely elegantly by Das, simply succeeds in compelling the viewer to start a conversation with the self and its location in society.

In Defence Of Freedom | Short Film of the Day

The film serves as a disturbing reminder of the human onslaught on the environment, and the soaring levels of pollution that are slowly killing the planet. It is set in a dystopic society, not more than fifty years ahead of the present, where oxygen and water have become commodities rare enough to trigger wars. <br><br> The film has a noble intention, very relevant in contemporary times as well. However, it's aimed at familiarising the masses with issues of climate change, not meant to be seen as a deep engagement with questions of survival. An unsuspecting viewer might find themselves disappointed with the narrative, VFX and the general execution of the story.



Most Viewed

Genres

Awards

Follow Us

Quick Links