Theo lives by himself and is not always super enthusiastic about social interaction, be it over the phone or attending an event with a friend. However, within this life of consciously chosen quiet, an unexpected development occurs one day when a pizza boy arrives with the order. 

Moments of tension which is later undercut, and humor are interweaved seamlessly to present the developing circumstance to the viewer. A conversation ensues between the two characters in the most effortless ways, leading the viewer, and more surprisingly, the protagonist, down some very unexpected paths. In the process, an intimate story of loss, grief, and notably, of shared love between two brothers, comes into existence. 
Never burdened with sentimentalism, the film’s emotional spectrum remains lucid and impactful throughout, ensuring that all its intentions are expressed and portrayed expertly. It is further marked by well-defined visual grammar and progression that bring Theo’s world, as well as his emotional landscape to life, with ease alongside the free-flowing chemistry of the two actors.

Me + Lee | Short Film of the Day

The setting of the film is a mundane basketball court where two men practice before an important game. At first glance, the seemingly harmless location fulfils the purpose of completely concealing the disconcerting unease that simmers beneath the obvious. As the brothers' practice session continues to progressively increase in intensity, a past riddled with unresolved anxieties and tension is revealed to the viewer. Despite the outdoor location of the story, a sense of emotional claustrophobia is invoked by using swift shots placed in quick successions. With the staccato that is conjured by the heated exchange of the characters, this sentiment is further driven home loudly and clearly. In the process, Pregame also becomes a comment as well as an engagement with the many layers of familial dynamics, allowing this particular thematic concern a fitting closure at the conclusion of the story. The film is notable in the manner in which it employs limited resources to enhance and supplement the portrayal of its story. Additionally, a sincere interaction with its subject matter allows it to put forth a convincing narrative about a pregame and all that it comes to stand for in the lives of two brothers.

Pregame | Short Film of the Day

Packed with high-paced action within a crisp narrative of only a few minutes, the short film presents to you a moment in time, without explicitly mentioning the events that preceded it or the chaos which is just about to succeed it. And yet, a lucid picture is conjured in the viewer's mind which gives them a cohesive understanding of the circumstances at hand. Two brothers, Kevin and Liam, have abducted a man and are holding him hostage in a desperate attempt to put a lid on some seedy arrangement involving money. Amidst the intensity of the situation, humour is allowed an unexpected entry in the form of bickering between the two characters over, as one would have it, a bar of Twix. However inane it might appear superficially, this is precisely the object which would explain the title of the film, as well as become the very thing on which matters of life and death would come to pivot. The energy of the taut narrative never dips, keeping you involved till the very conclusion. As the characters try to find a way out of the sticky situation they have landed themselves in, there is also a comment to be made about the progress of their relationship alongside it. Additionally, the chemistry between the actors is especially notable, elevating the film further, and allowing it to be an entertaining, fun, quirky product on the whole.

Blood Sugar | Short Film of the Day

Bacillus takes us into a reality we are all too familiar with, specifically in contemporary times - the outbreak of a virus. Within the universe of the story, as is also true of the world that extends beyond the fictive space of the film, while some are inclined to take precautions to safeguard themselves, others are still cynical about the true extent of the damage it can cause. The two contrasting opinions are communicated by way of a conversation between two brothers, playing out against the muted visuals of the narrative. While keeping its characters unaware of the fateful events that await them right around the corner, the film allows a sense of foreboding to the viewer. We realise before the duo on screen that something is deeply amiss. When the manifestation of the virus finally arrives, will it be too late for them? The film does a notable job of employing its limited resources, while also exhibiting the potential of primarily a four-member-cast and crew. The action sequence that marks the climax and the conclusion of the narrative further displays a sincerity and dedication to performance, successfully tapping into the high moment of energy the film has led the viewer to all along.

Bacillus | Short Film of the Day

The dilemma of two brothers regarding a crucial decision about the life of a third family member comes to form the body of the short film. Their father, who battles a chronic illness, is reduced to a vegetative state in an expensive facility. As the brothers struggle with the financial and emotional implications of the situation, they decide to take matters in their own hands, and thus euthanasia enters the plot. Soon follow a series of most unexpected events, finally culminating into a shocking conclusion. The short film is a sincere effort to tell its story and employs notable camerawork, comedic moments and a zesty background score to enhance itself. The execution is marked with ease, albeit a few slips, allowing it all to come together in the form of a complete narrative. Assistance further raises a philosophical question about what it means to be alive - is it simply the absence of death? Along with this, it also offers an engagement with ideas of guilt as well as familial duties and what they truly come to mean for the two brothers.

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