In the face of all misogyny, sexism, classicism and women themselves participating in patriarchal oppression, it's a glass of juice which will become an agent of protest. The short film is the story of one evening and how that in itself is sufficient to delineate the normalisation of women's marginalisation. However, one day, when a woman decides to stand up and question it, will she be allowed the space to do so? Juice is a wholesome and skilful product which questions the grossly imbalanced gender equations. Shouldered by the most stellar performance by Shefali Shah, the film is undisputedly a very relevant, subtle and poignant piece of art on gender.

Juice | Short Film of the Day

The little moments that constitute life are weaved together most seamlessly in this anthology of short films. From the loneliness of old age, and a deep desire to reconnect with someone, to the little joys of simply eating an ice cream - the thematic concerns are far and wide across the spectrum, and yet never out of synchronisation with one another. Each story that the film offers is more powerful than the other, and is bound to stay with the viewer long after they are done watching it. The subtle, but potent commentary the narrative presents on issues of gender, misogyny are loud and clear, without falling in the trap of sentimentalism. Additionally, the film's insight on old age and mental health is noteworthy. The performances and portrayal of all the characters enhance the stories further, ensuring that often only the eyes are sufficient to express and communicate the intended sentiment, even before the film makes it explicit for you. All of these elements together allow Jump Cuts to work on several levels, making its success well-rounded and complete in itself.

Jump Cuts | Short Film of the Month

The film packs a powerful, pertinent comment in its conciseness. The entirety of the narrative unfolds within the confines of a single conversation. Three men discuss the sexual assault and violence inflicted on women. One of the characters mentions how more and more of these cases are being brought to light, only to be dismissed by another, saying that of course women who step out of the house and dress in a certain way, deserve what is coming their way. 

The most crucial character, however, in this entire development becomes the fourth man, the quiet listener who does not participate directly. In a notable, controlled, and skilled manner, the film thus presents a crucial commentary on sexism, misogyny, and the extremely damaging and rampant forces of patriarchy wreaking havoc on society.

Soch | Short Film of the Month

The film establishes its messaging in the title itself and foregrounds the idea of oppressive cycles of misogyny that are passed down from one generation to another simply because no one breaks the silence. The narrative deals with the several dehumanizing practices around menstruation, and how the stigma not only places an unnecessary burden on women and girls but also endangers their health. 
It explores all of this by way of a household in small-town India where the grandmother is the biggest enforcer of patriarchy, being openly sexist and misogynistic in her treatment of her two grandchildren. Alongside asserting that sometimes women are the biggest upholders of patriarchy, 'Silent Cycle' also presents the far-too-common binary of a household that worships a goddess but treats its women with immense disrespect. This is portrayed by way of notable performances and a straightforward narrative that ropes in sentimentalism and direct communication of all of these ideas.

Silent Cycle | Spotlight

The film does a commendable job of drawing one’s attention in a stark, unabashed manner to the inherent, implicit sexism that operates on every level. The tool it employs to achieve this is language. Linguistic conditioning is tipped in the favor of patriarchy, and the film offers a strong endeavor to question the same. It is concise and lucid in its messaging, and thus succeeds in achieving clear communication of its intentions. Additionally, there is a quiet reminder of how ideas of strength and courage should never be burdened with gender binaries.

Connection Kya Hai | Short Film of the Day

The film is a union of three narratives about couples, each with very well-defined issues of their own. The storytelling does a notable job of talking about all of these issues from a lens of gender and equality, and brings in an approach that is often missing while discussing inequality and sexism within heteronormative relationships. 

The three situations include a woman trying to move on from her toxic boyfriend who refuses to let her find this space of comfort and ease. This is followed by a story where, on the heels of their marriage, a couple is confronted with deep imbalance that is tipped in the favor of the man. Lastly, the third couple presents a moment of self-doubt and uncertainty, and the absolute importance of support during such a crisis. 

The actors and the performances that they offer are sincere, and succeed at fulfilling their goal with ease. The stories remain devoid of maudlin sentimentalism, and thereby, are able to communicate their message and intentions with clarity.

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