‘Ayak’’s world is constructed with a controlled, and steady hand, taking the viewer into the story gradually, but irrevocably. The sustained pace ensures that even though the dialogue in the film is frugal, you are deeply invested in the fate of the protagonist. Manu has arrived at the Forest of Chithari to perform an age-old ritual that takes place every twenty years. 

The forest is not only the abode of innumerable secrets and unsaid things, but also of forces far beyond Manu’s comprehension. The story that began in ancient Egypt, is about to come to fruition with his arrival for the ritual. Ayak, or the potion that unites one with the gods, is soon presented to him in the most unlikely circumstances. 

As the events unfold, the film puts forth a narrative that is quiet, but stern. It employs no sudden thrills or jump scares to unsettle the viewer, and still ensures that it remains disconcerting throughout. The visuals of the vast expanses enhance it manifold, as do the smooth edit and the screenplay. The seamless weaving of all of these elements allows 'Ayak' to become a beautiful final result that is not simply defined by mystery or thrill, but also by an element of fantasy and something terrible awaiting right around the corner.

Ayak | Short Film of the Year

On a seemingly regular afternoon, a man exploits a hapless chaat-seller along a roadside, as two school-girls discuss a recent accident that had taken place near-by. While the former exchange can still fall within the boundaries of a mundane encounter, defined by stinginess and helplessness, the mention of the accident hints at something darker unfolding simultaneously. 

The film’s world-building thereafter remains gradual, marked by an eeriness that is aided greatly by a careful choice of the background score, as well as a crucial, strong performance by Akhilendra Mishra. 

With the progression of the story, the protagonist continues to stumble across crisp notes of twenty rupees as he continues on his path. Unable to look away, he finds them in a murky pool of water or in obscure spots high up in the air. Despite frantic calls from his impatient daughter, he still refuses to focus on the path, until he reaches a point from where there is no turning back. The journey thus mapped out by the narrative is engaging, involving, and at last, deeply shocking.

Bārāt | Short Film of the Month

The film constructs itself like a parable, eventually presenting the viewer with an important message that the protagonist is quick to miss. Keeping itself free of any verbal exchanges, the narrative relies entirely on visual drama and action to paint this reality for the viewer. 
The visual landscape is utilized judiciously to present the protagonist’s tryst with a magical flute. When played, it showers him with money. However, the moment he is too consumed by the greed of grasping the notes, he also loses the gift he had been presented with, forgetting what truly mattered in his lust for money. The end result remains defined by brevity, clarity of its screenplay, and visual progression.

The Taste of Destiny | Short Film Nominee

The film is an engaging portrayal of a battle between the Parshu tribe, and the Yamakazis led by the formidable Nobu. In the process of portraying the invaders' attempt to overpower the axe-warriors, the film presents notable special effects, exhibiting investment of thought and creativity of approach. 

As the Parshus take on the mighty Yamakazi, the film also offers a seamless weaving of an equally notable background score with the visuals unfolding before you with ease. The end result boasts of intelligent choices, and lucid, disciplined execution of storytelling intentions, devoted and honest even in the face of the framework of the limited resources they operate within. Ideas of valor, courage, and the fierce protection of one’s homeland, even when grappling with the threat of imminent mortal peril, are delineated amidst it all, keeping the viewer engaged with the brevity of the endeavor throughout.

Legends of Parshu | Short Film Nominee

Vishal, a young documentary filmmaker, is on a quest to find the perfect subject for his film. His enthusiastic local guide takes him into the heart of a story, one about a little boy, Mato and his pet goat, Arjun. 

Basing its plot on Mahasweta Devi’s ‘The Armenian Champa Tree’, the film presents a nexus between superstition and sincere companionship. It endeavors to construct its world with care and thought as it takes us deeper into the issues that plague its characters, presenting a metanarrative of sorts, a film about making a film. 
The film’s most notable aspect is its approach to storytelling, especially achieved with its edit and screenplay. Though a few stones remain unturned in achieving all of these intentions, the film in its current form offers a completed whole, while also leaving the door open for more such attempts at storytelling and world-building in the future.

The Legend of Mato | Short Film Nominee

‘Q-pid’ is a fun, effervescent conversation around a specific thing which can be a need as well as an addiction. Thus, it has the potential to be both empowering and toxic. The narrative ensures that the metaphors it employs do not let the viewer in on the object it truly discusses right until the very end, offering an entertaining turn of events in the process. A man and a woman meet in a shadowy room for a seemingly seedy deal. As the peddler arrives to deliver his goods, would it be what you expect them to be? 

The film is marked by notable camerawork and deliberate visuals that enhance it. Despite being constituted by limited means, it earns points for the dedication and sincerity with which the project is handled, along with the performance and the chemistry of its two actors who portray the undercurrents that define their relationship with ease.

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