The short film is an engagement with ideologies and the manner in which loyalty to them sometimes demands the complete erasure of the individual. Now it should be noted right at the start that the viewer should not go to Kalalpada expecting mainstream North Indian cinema. For the unprepared viewer, the music might be jarring, for instance. However, barring these little details, the film simply serves as a reminder that stories and emotions are indeed universal. By focusing on a hyper-localised issue, one of a clash between groups of conflicting political beliefs, the film further draws attention to the powerlessness of an individual who is rendered no more than a cog in the massive state apparatus. As ideologies and friendship become diametrically opposite to each other, the narrative concludes with a disconcerting message - one of the futile loss of life in the name of politics, religion and power structures that have no room for emotions or interpersonal bonds.

Kalalpada | Short Film of the Day

The foundation of the story is constituted by a beautiful message - one about finding a way to co-exist peacefully despite a difference of opinion which can easily result in conflict. The sentiment is explored using the example of the beef ban that was enforced by the Central government of India in 2017. In a small corner of Kerala, a father and son find themselves on opposing sides of this ideology - while one is in support of the ban, the other reminds the viewer that a government should not be deciding what people eat in their personal lives. Inspite of the disagreement, will the two be able to find a common ground to meet each other? The film raises the same question and offers an answer as well in a convincing manner, along with an important message about unity, irrespective of how varying one's views and ideas can be.

Beefree | Short Film Nominee

With its use of short, crisp shots, coupled with an eerie background score, the film does a notable attempt of invoking an atmosphere of thrill and horror. It moves back and forth in time to juxtaposes two parallel narratives of a young couple. The plot soon develops to reveal how a man finds his present reality reflected in a past couple's life that lived in the same house where he happens to be for a few hours. The film shows potential in terms of its structuring and performances and comes across as a strong attempt at horror. While music has an important role to play in escalating tension, it is also the execution of the storyline that allows it to be a complimentary aspect of the film, rather than spiral away into melodrama.

Most Viewed

Genres

Awards

Follow Us

Quick Links