Reviews

"Birha" is a short film that explores the theme of separation and longing. The film features a protagonist who returns to his homeland with a single desire in his heart, and the narrative revolves around the activities and performances of the characters. The film is driven by universal emotions and delivers visceral reactions. The technical aspects of the film contribute to its impact. Rajit Kapoor delivers an outstanding performance as the aging father, and Manav Vij's portrayal of the son is commendable. The film effectively conveys a haunting sense of loneliness. While it incorporates a twist in the end, which may seem like a cliche, it doesn't diminish the overall impact of the story. "Birha" stays true to its theme and finds an apt rhythm for exploring the subject, making it a compelling short film.

"Rat in The Kitchen" is a debut film by filmmaker Arkish Aftab, released on JioCinema on October 2. The film explores themes of neglect, isolation, and eerie suspense in an urban setting. It follows the story of Vikram, a depressed protagonist undergoing a divorce, who neglects his surroundings and health. The film takes a dark turn when Vikram realizes he's not alone in his house, with elements of low-key lighting, CCTV footage integration, and weather symbolism adding to the suspense. The Director of Photography, Yash Kamat, used moonlight and TV light for interior shots to create an atmosphere of mystery. The film's technical aspects include skillfully integrated audio and visual elements, creating an immersive experience. While it didn't consider platforms during shooting, it fits well with the intimate style of OTT content consumption. The film's director, Arkish Aftab, draws inspiration from American filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan and enjoys crafting plots with unexpected twists.

"Mein, Mehmood," an 11-minute short film directed by Prataya Saha, delves into the haunting repercussions of society's obsession with the English language and youth. Set in Dubai during the pandemic, it portrays the life of Mehmood, an immigrant facing the harsh realities of not knowing English and aging. The film brilliantly captures the dilemma faced by immigrants who must choose between staying close to family or earning for them, all while surviving in a challenging environment.

The cinematography by Abhishek Saravanan effectively creates a world that visually overwhelms Mehmood, emphasizing his struggles. As Mehmood's life unravels, the lighting cleverly reflects the diminishing hope, showcasing the contrast between his public façade and his private struggles.

Ozair Abdul Aleem's performance is noteworthy as he portrays Mehmood's gradual descent into despair and weakness. Prataya Saha's decision to conclude the film without offering a hopeful resolution speaks volumes about the hardships faced due to the societal emphasis on English and youth.

While the film could have delved deeper into Mehmood's life back home, "Mein, Mehmood" successfully delivers its intended message, shedding light on the challenges immigrants face in a foreign land due to language barriers and societal pressures.

"The Rat Catcher" is the latest addition to Netflix's Roald Dahl collection, offering a delightful tribute to Dahl's peculiar storytelling. Narrated by Richard Ayoade and featuring performances by Ralph Fiennes and Rupert Friend, the story follows the enigmatic Rat Man's arrival in a quaint village to deal with a rat problem. Wes Anderson's distinctive style elevates the narrative, with the first half showcasing his signature filmmaking techniques. However, it's the second half where Anderson's creative use of lighting, shadows, and animation truly shines. Inspired by a Dahl short story, the film captures his unique storytelling style and concludes with an intriguingly ambiguous ending. "The Rat Catcher" is a captivating 15-minute short that keeps viewers engaged and offers a fresh perspective on liquorice. It's a must-watch for fans of Dahl's whimsical tales and Anderson's cinematic artistry.

The short film "The Comedian," featuring the late Satish Kaushik, marks the beginning of JioCinema's digital film festival running until October 18. Directed and written by Katyayan Shivpuri, it's one of Kaushik's posthumous releases following his untimely passing in March 2023.

The film delves into the life of aging actor-comedian Hasmukh (Kaushik), whose career has dwindled, leading to a fractured family due to his recklessness. Burdened by frustration and bitterness, his life takes an unexpected turn when he forms a touching friendship with an ailing child named Ria.

"The Comedian" brilliantly conveys the fading glory of Hasmukh's career, showcasing his struggles and the irony of his cheerful name. It draws parallels with Sanjay Mishra's "Kaamyaab," exploring the challenges faced by senior artists in an evolving industry.

The emotional core of the film lies in Hasmukh's transformation through his bond with Ria, who imparts valuable lessons about love and companionship as she battles cancer. Despite some minor issues with dialogue and character development, the film shines with heartfelt moments and serves as a tribute to Kaushik's artistry.