Invoking memories and all that they come to stand for eventually, the short film juxtaposes the past against the present, the wisdom and hindsight of old age against the naïveté and innocence of childhood. All of this is engaged with using a chess board and the various moves of the game as a metaphor. The entire journey of reminiscing is completed by the protagonist while simply sitting in a room with only a chess-board as his companion. The story is told in a notable manner with camera work that exhibits potential. Further, the atmosphere which is conjured using the background score is also worthy of attention, and serves to add an extra layer to the already skilled performance of its primary character.

Fool's Mate | Short Film of the Day

With its fixed frame and a seamless conversation between its two characters that play a game of chess with each other, the short film invokes an endearing narrative with effortless comedic moments. Through the banter and a spirit of competition, it further offers a subtle comment on the efforts of a married couple trying to wade forward together even in the face of different kinds of situations that might not always have an expected, positive outcome.

Equal Choices | Lockdown Film Challenge

The narrative is driven by a single character and his internal conflicts and dilemmas. He seems to be having a conversation with a concealed presence with whom he is also playing a game of chess. The title of the film, then, not only refers to a chess position, but also a suggestion of the emotional and mental state of the protagonist where no further progress is possible. As he recounts the events for the viewer that led him to this point, a shocking development about his fate, albeit determined by him, also awaits you at the conclusion of the film. Though Stalemate is an attempt to experiment with light and shadows, the visuals would have benefited from more control on the same. On the whole, however, it remains an honest endeavor to share its story.

Stalemate | Short Film Nominee

The short film is simply a representation of a chess match and employs stop motion to communicate the same to the viewer. As the pieces move across the board, winning some and losing some, what will be their fate? The film wants to communicate the uncertainty as well as the unexpected nature of the game visually using animation for its audience.

Checkmate | Lockdown Film Challenge

The film adopts an experimental approach as it delves into an exchange between two pawns on a chessboard, belonging to opposing teams. As the black piece convinces the white of his affection for her, a discussion around diversity and acceptance is invoked. All of this unfolds against a backdrop of different books that further echo the philosophy of the film. At the same time, the pieces continue to move from one corner of the room to another, exhibiting use of stop motion with regards to the visuals. The First Move attempts a sincere conversation on unity and the manner love is capable of transcending all boundaries of discrimination and division.

The First Move | Short Film Nominee

The story is of a pit-stop that a group of friends make while on a trip. When they stop on their way for a short break, they find themselves in an abandoned house with strange noises and doors that refuse to open once shut. The attempt is to build tension using an element of uncertainty about the fate of the characters. It eventually boils down to a chess match between the two of them. While victory in the match might finally be achieved, does it also mean a safe escape for all members of the group from the house?

Last Move | Short Film Nominee

The film comically traces the internal psyche of a man during the nationally mandated lockdown. He
begins playing chess with his father as a way to kill boredom, but from being a recreational activity, the
game soon turns into something mundane and dull. His enthusiasm eventually dies down, as the game of chess becomes a game
of patience for him.

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