Shorted

The film is a story of hardship and struggle, but also of an uplifting and heartwarming sense of hope. The union of the two is defined by an endearing mother-daughter relationship. Anju and Raani are both hard workers and dedicated to their duties, as domestic help, and as a young student, respectively. 

Raani’s birthday is around the corner and her mother is eager to get her a surprise present, especially after she has just topped her class. However, the people around them, those who are capable of effecting change, are far from letting the duo enjoy some much-needed respite and kindness. The narrative presents all of these obstacles, marked by a tight screenplay and visuals that exhibit complete control. The performances too evidence the same sturdiness, especially that of Anju, and bring to life a complete, balanced story. 

Additionally, there is something to be said about the real-life inspiration that nestles itself within the heart of the story. This one extra layer allows the film to further communicate its message successfully and with impact.

Me, Raani | Short Film Nominee

Long drives on empty roads, accompanied by loud, upbeat music and the occasional deafening noise of blaring truck horns, is what constitutes a regular night on a highway. The wide, lonely expressway greets its travellers with delicious food of roaside dhabbas and a handful of interesting stories to remember. 

Similar is the case for an ageing, overworked lorry driver who gives a lift to a young, chatty sex worker one night. In the first half of their drive, she tries to turn him into a patron by working information of available rooms and her pricing into the conversation. The driver simply replies with stern looks and silence. When they both eventually get off at a dhabba, the young girl moves on to find other potential customers. She states the rate to them, gulping down the food offered to her, but soon enough things turn ugly. 

As the rest of the night develops, we are introduced to a brutal reality of a world where it is often the familial, domestic space itself which exposes women and young girls to abuse in all its grotesque forms. This assertion is further proven true as the girl before us completes an entire journey that begins with her chirpiness and an expert handling of her trade, only to reveal a life of betrayal, cruelty and the desperate need to survive. However, as the two characters head towards the final stop, the film unpacks its layers gradually, allowing the viewer an uplifting, hopeful message that rests patiently within its conclusion.

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