The primary action and drama of the film pivots on domestic abuse and its many ramifications on a family. However, intrinsic to this premise is the idea of self-imposed inhibitions, mainly as a result of social constructs and the manner in which gender dynamics are enforced. A pinjra or cage thus becomes the defining metaphor for the lived reality of this mother-son duo who are both direct and indirect victims of an abusive husband and father. The film is marked by notable performances, and a frugality of dialogue which is employed judiciously to share its intentions with the viewer. It does not shy away from sentimentalism, along with tying it with a smattering of animation to drive its message home.

Pinjra | Short Film of the Day

It's evident that the seamless edit of the film lends it a notable gravity, allowing it to be a moving depiction of its protagonist's struggle with crippling anxiety. From the suffocating feeling of drowning to the inability to speak or even deal with the most mundane tasks like answering a phone or switching off an alarm - the plot exhibits how any or all of these activities can hurl someone into deep, dark pits of their own mind. This is further enhanced by providing skilled visualisation for each of these thoughts. While several films on mental health run the danger of offering little to nothing new or unique on the topic, What It Feels Like stands out owing to the structuring of the narrative, and the honesty and dedication to its subject matter. The realisation of the premise shows deep potential on the part of the team, thereby allowing the film to be an adequate portrayal of a mental condition innumerable people in general, and Indian students in particular, grapple with on a regular basis.

What It Feels Like | Short Film of the Day

The ukulele-supported vocals present forth a soulful and catchy melody about a universally relatable experience - heartache after a breakup. The story is shared with the viewer by invoking a calm and soft atmosphere that takes them by the hand into the experiences of the protagonist. The music video is marked by its smooth visuals and a convincing performance, tied together neatly by competent singing. Despite the heavy subject matter and theme, the sound of the song is easy and lighthearted, of the right kind, allowing it to be an engaging product, without weighing itself down with sentimentalism, also earning this particular strength a separate mention. Though a cover of a famous song, Break Up Ke Baad brings to the table its own individuality, further making it stand apart for the audience.

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