Diwali is around the corner, the fairy lights and gift packs that have cropped up on the streets and in stores (not necessarily in that order) are more than just subtle reminders of it. But as pollution levels soar, infants and elders struggle to breathe and cats and dogs scamper to hide from the noise, will you do your bit to make this Diwali a little more cheerful and bright for someone? Here's a short ad film in case you're looking for ideas. 

#ShorYaSangeet | Short Film of the Day

The Aparshakti Khurana-starrer is about the story of a man trying to get rid of a dog named Nawab left in the wake of his failed marriage. As the protagonist struggles with his divorce after being married for four years, his wife makes it clear that Nawab will be his responsibility. From dog shelters to just plain abandonment in the middle of the road, the story moves from one point to another, taking the viewer deeper into a hilarious and endearing narrative about loss and grief. It also boasts of an understated, yet powerful character execution by Mallika Dua, a commendable and hard to achieve combination. A special treat for animal lovers, the film is supplemented with important lessons on life, pain and companionship, along with a strong performance by Khurana.

Nawab | Aparshakti Khurana, Mallika Dua, Maria Goretti | Large Short Films

In its short duration, the film packs several complex emotions, as well as a whole rollercoaster of events. What begins as a quest of finding a lost pet, takes the viewer down, and the protagonist, several unexpected, unknown paths. The journey finally concludes with a shattering realisation of our own failings as a society. Within the folds of the plot also rest important questions about intimacy, affection for our loved ones, the role pets play in familial spaces and finally, animals often leading humans, in all their innocence, to a place where a mirror is held to their negligence and betrayal. Hachiko is replete with all of these aspects of a notable story, and brings in fitting visuals (which could have perhaps benefited from a little stability despite the intended, deliberate candour of hand-held shots) to complete the narrative in an effective manner.

Hachiko | Short Film of the Day

‘Leo’ takes you into its world slowly-steadily. Without employing any dialogue, it introduces us to the daily, mundane life of the protagonist as he moves from one task to another. However, the silence soon becomes oppressive enough to suggest a sense of melancholy shaping all his actions. The story eventually becomes one of loss, grief and the fond remembrance of a friend who is no longer present. Despite its limited resources, the film reveals efficient utilization of the same, along with shot composition that shows investment of thought. On the whole, the narrative becomes a quiet, heartfelt conversation on heartache, longing, and the eventual moving on.

Leo | Short Film Nominee

Ann and Ritchie are on a quest to find the former's missing dog, Blacky. While we never see the faces of these two primary characters, their voices become constant companions of the viewer. As they take us from one end of Kollam, Kerala, to another, a reality of lush green frames and a peaceful existence within the lap of nature is conjured for you. Against the backdrop of idyllic outdoors, albeit marked every now and then by bright posters of political campaigns of different parties, the search continues. 

 Neighbors, enthusiastic children, residents of adjacent areas and an interaction with plants in all their might and glory are further roped in to enhance the narrative. The wild goose chase continues, but to no avail because even on the fourth day, there is no sign of Blacky's return. After having gone through spells of stress eating, despair and hopelessness, Ann finally relinquishes and decides to give herself a moment of quiet with her friend Ritchie on the roof of her house. 

 The moment allows the film to come a full circle, after allowing us glimpses of the endearing friendship between the two, the sense of community that pervades the whole space where everyone knows everyone, as well as an indomitable spirit of hope that remains undaunted even in the face of the most intimidating circumstances.

(Kottar) Aakkara Pacha  | Short Film Nominee

The crisp and concise narrative of the film is constituted simply by different visuals of an endearing dog. The visuals are further supplemented by mood lighting, the shadows used in an attempt to artistically focus on tight shots of the animal. This is tied up together by a soft background score, perhaps to complete the film with a ribbon on top.

The "Canis" | Lockdown Film Challenge

There is perhaps hardly any other animal or being that can exhibit the same selfless devotion towards their best friend as that of a dog. From waiting for their special human every day to return to the house, to never finding lasting peace without their presence, a dog's love is complete with it all. The short film portrays the same relationship between Bruno and his master, until one day, when their endearing story takes an unexpectedly dark turn.

Me and My Hooman | Short Film Nominee

The coronavirus lockdown has ensured that humans are confined to their houses. This, in turn, has allowed a fresh breath air to nature. The short film, imagined through the eyes of a protagonist also confined within their living quarters, and with its visuals of blooming flowers, clear skies and the birds that inhibit them, is a celebration of the same.

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