The short film is a nuanced and skilful portrayal of how humour can be found even in the most tragic situations. Along with being a subtle but impactful comment on gender, it also shows the struggle of straddling modernity and tradition. Khatoon Ki Khidmat shows a newly-married woman refusing to have sex with her husband until he gets her a television set. The husband, on the other hand, is struggling to get his father to accept his wife and their marriage. As the characters fight it out, the narrative draws attention to familial dynamics and the location of a woman in a patriarchal household. The film is funny, engaging, insightful and a reminder of how the biggest battles of life are waged in the smallest moments.

Khatoon Ki Khidmat | Short Film of the Day

Engaging, unpredictable and potentially disconcerting - that’s perhaps the most apt way of describing the short film. Bloody Moustache is well-written, expertly visualised and coupled with strong performances. It opens with a man shaving off his moustache one morning. However, this sudden change in his appearance elicits no response in his family, his wife and a younger brother. When explicitly drawn attention to, the two look visibly perturbed for the character has never had a moustache in his whole life. As the narratives mingle, the viewer is made to question, who is telling the truth? And if either of them is lying, what could be the motivations behind it?

Bloody Moustache | Short Film of the Day

The moment the film opens, it introduces you to a world of darkness - both literal and metaphorical. A man has committed a heinous deed and is only beginning to realize the true power of all the emotions the act of violence has left in its wake. As he struggles to make sense of his actions, the overwhelming sense of guilt has already set for him the rest of the path ahead. Though better control on light would have benefited the narrative, it eventually becomes an exploration of the same sentiment which is then shared with the viewer.

Guilt | Lockdown Film Challenge

Centering itself around a mundane object like a glass of black tea, the short film takes the viewer into the life of a woman. As she perseveres daily to keep her family up on its feet, she is met with several obstacles. From disagreeing with her husband, to ensuring that the family’s financial security is intact, she braves it all, equipped simply with her black tea. Sometimes it waits patiently and loses its steam in the process. Other times, it sizzles and flares in a saucepan. Either way, it is always waiting, silently and loyally, being a quiet sign of dedication, self-sacrifice and strength.

Most Viewed

Genres

Awards

Follow Us

Quick Links