The narrative opens with the voice of a sole character, and his misadventures in the world of dating. However, after the reality that unfolded in his past experiences, the one he now presents to his listener is the exact opposite. 

The layers get peeled in order to conjure a world of rejections, denial and always the same dead end in the pursuit of love. Through the many shared stories, the protagonist’s worldview as well as his ideas on love in the modern day, are brought to life, whether or not they seem consistent with his efforts. As notions of relationships and dating are discussed, little do the viewer and the protagonist realize that there awaits them an event that would stick out its head suddenly and unexpectedly and, in the process, justify the film's title.

Woah! | Short Film Nominee

‘Paternal’ is a story of rejection - of one’s roots and loved ones if they no longer fit in with the ideal life one is pursuing. Satheesh CV is a technology professional who is facing immense pressure at his workplace. In addition to this, his love life is in shambles for his beloved’s family has stumbled across a part of his familial background that they do not approve of. Satheesh’s father was a daily wage laborer, and the girl’s family is no longer willing to associate with him. 

The development is followed by Satheesh’s rejection of a father who had worked long and hard to one day make his son capable of standing on his own feet. By showing the cruelty that the son gives in return for the kindness that was meted out to him by his father, the film pronounces the eventual and final tragedy of the father, as well as a message about familial bonds and their ruthless rejection to serve one's own needs and desires.

Paternal | Short Film Nominee

More often than nought, life comes to be marked by rejections and failures. Further, it is not unusual to find oneself in a desolate, dark place, questioning one's worth when such an event occurs. The film wants to be an engagement with the same thought by portraying a protagonist who receives an unpleasant news. After working very hard for admission in his dream college, he is still unable to secure a position. Additionally, the news of the rejection is coupled with his friend's acceptance to the same college. However, with the kindness of those around him, as well as after spending some time in reflection, he is able to reach a positive conclusion. There is further a reminder for him (and the viewer) of the many other talents and skills he possesses irrespective of one failure, and it is this that becomes the final message of the film.

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