The Indian familial space is often fraught with disagreements, a constant power tussle between the parents and their children, and the latter's attempts to reject this dynamic. Additionally, these differences are intricately tied with both oppression as well as love and care, making the situation even more complex, ensuring blurring of neat categories of affection and intolerance towards one's way of life. The film is a powerful exploration of all of this. It further offers an impactful interpretation and its own unique portrayal of the same. Viewers are introduced to two parallel plot lines, of past and present, along with a simultaneous unfolding of events in both to communicate the film's intentions in a notable manner. At its heart, the story is one common to many households - a young woman deciding to break away from the strict code of conduct set in place by her father to eventually embark upon a life of her own choosing. And yet, the manner in which it is handled and treated by the film allows the story to stand on its own two feet, without letting it have echoes or influences of the narratives before it. The major body of the drama develops around a table with a fan on it, earning the film its title - a metaphor about the two opposite sides on which the two couples sit, along with the distance between them. It is also the performances of the same characters which steal the show, effortlessly carrying the entire film on their shoulders. As for the fate of this family, when all has been said and done, will there ever be the possibility of a space of acceptance? Will familial love truly be able to conquer the divisions set in motion by human-made identities?

The Table Fan Story | Short Film of the Day

The film constructs its world in an interesting manner, not revealing all its cards at first glance. When it opens, a baby and a man are present in a room. As they are soon joined by a woman, the picture of a family seems to be complete. However, only momentarily, and thus, the core conflict of this marriage is revealed to the viewer. 
Tara and Neel are about to head out for a baby shower, but it is the lead-up to this moment, primarily constituted by irritability and disagreements over small things like getting ready in time or buying the present for the imminent party, that reveals the true anxieties and stressors within the marriage. The film is marked by smooth performances, and storytelling that succeed in bringing this circumstance to life.

Parnu | Short Film of the Day

Menstruation and the taboo around it, especially in Indian society, is a much discussed topic in contemporary times. Consequently, art too attempts to engage with it often, and this short film is one such endeavour. The story is about a family making a trip to a nearby temple with all four members ready with a wish each to ask for. The narrative attempts to contribute to the conversation in a well-intentioned manner. Its method of choice for the same is simple and employs easily understood characters to communicate the message. Without overtly spelling out anything, it leaves the viewer with a reminder of the significance of the female body in the Indian culture, and the need to respect and understand it.

Spruha | Short Film Nominee

A woman finds herself stranded at a desolate bus stop at a late hour. As she tries to get away from the strange men prowling around her, she lands at a nearby rest-house of sorts. Here, her path crosses with that of a man who too appears strange at first glance, leaving our protagonist reluctant to interact with him. However, soon this hesitation transforms into ease, and a conversation begins to flow. 

 In the discussion that develops, several ideas about the transience of existence, the pain in remembrance and the unexpected nature of life are painted, all along tied with an intrinsic poetic sentiment. 

 The ensuing result becomes a calm meditation on the aforementioned ideas that are exchanged between two people in the quietness of the night. Since all of the events unfold in the darkness of dim-lit visuals, control on lighting becomes a crucial aspect which evidences a few wrinkles that can be ironed in subsequent projects. With that out of the way, it should be noted that the voice and approach should be explored further in more such endeavors by the team.

Mulakat | Short Film Nominee

'Marriage Fever' is a sweet story of Parth and Disha’s friendship. Despite the seeming Platonic nature of their equation, sexual tension remains all pervasive throughout their interactions with each other. As the two guzzle down buttermilk shots and overhype their culinary skills, a conversation about marriage remains their constant companion. The performances remain endearing and cheery all along to support the many exchanges, and the narrative's forward movement. Through their banter and lightheartedness, the friendship is portrayed in a simple manner for the audience. It would be interesting to see more, longer glimpses into the life of our two characters, and their many antics together.

Marriage Fever | Short Film Nominee

A single person project, the short film employs its limited resources efficiently to tell a notable story. The narrative is about survival and human extinction in the year 2050 when only a single human is alive on Earth. The film is a dedicated attempt to engage with not only this, but also ideas of humanity and kindness.

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