As humans threaten to overwhelm nature and environment, it is important to take a beat and reassess the impact of our actions. The documentary is a step in the same direction by engaging with a crucial concern that needs to be discussed more in the urban space. 
The film primarily introduces us to Preeti Patil and Premila Martis who, along with a group of volunteers, have raised a beautifully thriving terrace farm. Take note that this is not a regular farm, but one which prospers at the heart of the most densely populated Indian city, Mumbai. Underlying the efforts of our two subjects and the organization they are associated with, Urban Leaves, is the message that a small corner of greenery can be achieved anywhere with the right approach and efforts. 

The narrative further maps several obstacles that include the dismantling of the farm, finding it a new home, only to dismantle it again in the wake of the pandemic. However, as the film recounts its journey, there is the awareness and realization that if one is willing to give back, the desired results can be achieved, reminding the viewer once again of their role in reducing their carbon footprint, and allowing, both themselves as well as the environment, a fresh breath of air. There is further the emphasis on empowering yourself with the right tools and knowledge because once you are equipped in this manner, there is little that cannot be overcome and achieved.

City Farmer | Short Film Nominee

‘Wake Up’ is a sweet story about a reality we are all too familiar with - the obsession of little ones with smartphones and technology, and the struggle of their parents to wean them off screens. 

The same is portrayed by introducing us to a mother and her young son who refuses to let go of the games on a mobile phone. However, the mother is one step ahead, and comes up with a simple idea to divert his attention elsewhere. While it might be difficult to shake a child out of the hold that technology has on them, it might not always be their fault as well, the narrative suggests. Sometimes it could be something as plain as lack of things to do or boredom. If they are guided towards a constructive activity, who is to say things won't be different?

Wake Up | Short Film Nominee

Smile is a film from the perspective of a plant who is removed from the ‘family of his birth’ and adopted
by a human. Through the voice of a child, the plant narrates his tale. At first, we hear of his separation
anxieties. He misses his plant friends, and wonders what the birds must be up to. He is irritated by his
new roommate and his habits, but slowly, we see them forming a friendship. His roommate draws
an emoji on his pot and names him Smile. Our protagonist's wonder now turns to the daily tasks of his
roommate. He keenly follows his actions, is affected by them, and even eavesdrops on his phone calls. 
The lockdown is soon ending, and we learn that Smile’s roommate will be moving back to his own city.
Was Smile adopted simply as a hobby during lockdown? Will he be abandoned? Will he be sent back to his
previous dwellings? Watch the film to find out.

Smile | Short Film Nominee

The short film wants to share a story of a boy in quarantine and his interactions with his surroundings. After playing with insects and the usual aspects of the world around him, when he finds companionship in a plant, the narrative seems to acquire a tone of positivity. However, will this sense of hope and ease remain till the end as well or are a different set of developments await both the protagonist and the viewer?

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