In today’s weekend blog, I am not on Bollywood’s feature films. But I am writing about SHORT FILMS, and these types of films are generally available on the OTT platforms and even on YouTube. Known directors of Bollywood mostly direct these short films and sometimes even top stars of Bollywood act in these films. These films have much more impactful content than the usual 100+ Cr Masala films doled out by Bollywood. Here are some very interesting Short Films you must see at least once.
1 Juice
With power packed performance of Shefali Shah, this Hindi short film’s portrayal of the average Indian woman resonates with many. A woman stuck working in the kitchen while her husband enjoys with guests, is a subtle but very relevant take on the middle-class housewife. Without any loud expression or shocking dialogues, the short film is worth a watch.
2 Khujli
This is considered as one of the best Hindi Short Film ever produced. It is funny and kinky movie that focuses on middle-age couple rediscovering sex. The small film is about an older couple getting inspired by 50 Shades of grey. With talented actors like Jackie Shroff and Neena Gupta, the short film explores a middle-aged couple trying to wrap up their heads around the unexpected changes of modern-day physical intimacy.
3 Kheer
This beautiful short film captures a complete story in just 6 minutes and one incident. The film focuses on the relationship a grandfather shares with his grand daughter. This short film revolves around how he consoles his grand daughter when she mistakes his friend to be his lover, and gets upset at the idea of him replacing her late grand mother. Anupam Kher acts as grand father.
4 Naked
Starring Kalki Koechlin, this short Hindi film focuses on the important topic of cyber bullying. She does an excellent portrayal of an average young woman who messes up her big opportunity because of society and her boss. The dialogues, flawless acting, and smooth execution make this a must-watch.
5 Nawab
The short film is one of the finest works of Aparshakti Khurana. This short film tells the story of a man and the dog he got while he was together with his ex. Now, after their breakup, he is in search of a place for himself and his dog. With great performance and a heartwarming plot, this is a must watch.
6 Ghar Ki Murgi
This is a very good short film directed by Bollywood’s main stream director Ashwini Iyer Tiwari. The film captures the unfair treatment of housewives by their own families is an eye-opener. The film stars Sakshi Tanwar who acts brilliantly. The film captures the lives of homemakers and throws much- needed light on just how important they are.
7 Budh Awakening
Focusing on the lives of three women across the country, the filmshowcases how these three women face similar sorts of oppression and how they try to rise above it. It brings out the sad reality of women, in India as well as throughout the world.
8 Natkhat
Starring Vidya Balan, this short film is about women’s empowerment. The film focuses on the life of a woman teaching his son about gender equality. The film will leave you with the hope that all this patriarchy, misogyny, and sexism, can be stopped if it is nipped in the bud.
9 Devi
With amazing actors like Kajol, Shruti Haasan, Neha Dhupia, and Mukta Barve, this 13 minute short film is hard hitting. This short film is basically debate between 9 women talking about their history of sexual violence and rape. Focusing on how common these atrocities are in our society, the film drives a very important message.
10 Ahalya
In my view this short film can be considered as best short film ever made in India. Ahalya happens to be Bengali short film by director Sujoy Ghosh. He takes on the episode of Ahalya from Ramayan and gives it a modern twist. With Radhika Apte as a lead, this short film is a must watch.
11 Khaney Mein Kya Hai?
This is a very heart-warming, cue, and funny take on sex conversations with mother. After watching this short film, you will never look at cooking the same way.
12 Chutney
Another interesting short film that you would love to watch is chutney. With Tisca Chopra’s powerful performance, who happens to be director also, this short film is worth watching.
13 Jai Mata Di
This short film is funny and relatable with a surprise twist. It focuses on an unmarried couple that wants to live together bu society doesn’t let them. The short film showcases how this couple stumbles over a novel, quirky, and out-of-the-box solution to do so.
Please search on the internet where these short films are available, and enjoy these short films.
Waiting for your feedback on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
7th June 2024