Made as a celebration of the 100 years of Indian cinema in 2017, the ad film is a brief, but lasting romance with the city of Mumbai. Explored through the eyes of a taxi driver, the film packs a full punch in its short duration and a notable use of handheld shots. As our protagonist regales us with his story, we find out he came to Mumbai from Allahabad and is a fan of Amitabh Bachchan. Iconic dialogues from memorable Bollywood films smoothly jump out of his mouth, reminding the viewer, that amidst the hustle and the rush indeed lies the city of dreams, harbouring the hopes and efforts of the countless, often drawn to it by the glamour of tinsel town.

The Taxi Story | Short Film of the Day

Chintu Sharma is a relentless film aficionado. As soon as school is over, he darts out to catch the latest film at the local theater. However, 'Phillum' does not immediately introduce us to its protagonist and this reality. 

Instead, first there is the establishment of a small school, perhaps even suggesting a movement back in time. The film presents a sincere endeavor in capturing the ethos of not only a village, but also of an endearing, enthusiastic young protagonist. 

As for Chintu, he is not only a viewer, but also a storyteller, even performer, as he regales his peers with stories of the films he has watched. The end result ties all of these elements together to leave the viewer with a narrative that aims to be wholesome and uplifting.

Phillum | Short Film Nominee

The film is an earnest glimpse into the struggles of three cinema professionals who are awaiting some form of return on their labors. By introducing us to Faizan, Varun, and Raju, the story constructs this reality for us in a sincere, authentic manner. 

The struggles of the characters further reveal the exploitation that is inherent in an industry modeled on taking advantage of people’s dreams and creative pursuits. The film’s visual development wavers a little sometimes, but the performances and the dedication of the cast and crew help it overcome this. 

A life of debt and disturbing financial and emotional uncertainty is invoked in the process. However, despite all the hardship and disillusionment, the message that remains central to the narrative, plot, and thus, the writing of the end result, is one of perseverance and hope. Even in the face of having hit rock bottom, the mustering of strength and finding that the only way is up become the firm string that ties the film together.

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