Bittoo Escobar is a colorful, vibrant joyride that should not be missed for anything. Marked by seamless visual storytelling, the film captures a moment in Mumbai that, in several ways, becomes a microcosmic representation of the city. This is achieved by bringing to life two parallel narratives about an unnamed character, developed and contrasted against each other. Our protagonist is an irreverent, jaunty character who is located at the margins of society. A product of her environment, she finds her existence defined by a constant financial struggle, and yet, she is fearless in her desire to not just survive, but thrive. Consequently, no obstacle is big enough to intimidate or daunt her, at least outwardly. Amidst the hullabaloo of it all, Bittoo Escobar, as a police officer names her in a fit of annoyance, pushes through, refusing to give in. In terms of technique, the film exhibits polish and finesse with its lovely visuals, elegant transitions and prowess in writing. It would further be interesting to see it as a longer project, allowing the viewer to go on more of the character's (mis)adventures.

Bittoo Escobar | Short Film of the Month

The narrative is a conversation between a man and the many changing faces of another character called Seher. As the conversations continue to progress, the complexities of the protagonist's life, in direct contrast with the bright, cheery smile on his face, are revealed to the viewer. There is further the desire to explore the territory of symbolism and metaphors to portray his reality in a notable manner. 

From flower petals to specific shades of pink, from sunlit windows to the same corner of a cafe where we always find the protagonist and his forever changing companions, the narrative evokes them all to embellish the story. Along the course of the plot, he also mentions Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and some of the changes in the people before him begin to make sense. Despite his beguiling smile, you're allowed a glimpse of his several struggles, the most notable being the yearning for another person. 

Consequently, the film becomes a conversation with mental health, loneliness, love, relationships, even patience and the desire to not give up on someone. The cheerful face before you is located at the heart of this narrative, as it progresses from one aspect of his life to another, all the while demanding the viewer to dedicate themselves fully to the entire trajectory of this movement.

Seher | Short Film Nominee

Rarely in life does one meet someone and almost instinctively find them to be a space of comfort and love, their presence to be like balmy warmth on a long winter night, perhaps something like a pixie, as suggests the narrative. Samar and Sana's paths cross due to a common friend at a dinner party where amidst conversation and twinkling, soft lights, they fall for each other. Despite their deep love, they push each other away and take on different paths. As life carries on with its course, and tugs them in different directions, they keep in touch through letters. While relationships and marriages with other people continue, this particular bond remains unbroken. However, after years of separation and distance, will they eventually find a way back to each other or keep on living as two halves of a whole? The question is meant to be intrinsic to the plot, as it attempts to rope in symbolism, metaphors, music and lyricism in its portrayal.

Most Viewed

Genres

Awards

Follow Us

Quick Links