Saving Chintu
Introduction
Every now and then, we at Popcorn Reviewss like to slip in a review of a short film which we wish everyone to see. It is just about giving a voice to filmmakers and writers which are deserving yet eclipsed in the plethora of content which is available for consumption. And so with that I finished watching the new Hindi/English short Saving Chintu on Hotstar. The thing about the short was that I just did not know what to expect as I hadn’t watched its trailer and moreover it was one of those shorts which popped up in my recommendations. So then is Saving Chintu worth your time, lets find out.
Story & Screenplay
As is the case with all short films, I will be refraining from revealing any bit of the story as it would act as a spoiler. But the story is quite sensitive and layered as it explores the vulnerabilities of an LGBTQ couple especially in a country like India. The screenplay standing at just 25 minutes means that it is a quick watch. Two seemingly unrelated stories unfold wherein you are particularly invested in one of the stories involving the LGBTQ couple. Despite a limited screentime, their relationship is layered and complex while they go about a “task” which is very dear to them.
But there are a bunch of challenges which they have to go through which makes this drama quite interesting. There are moments of silence which really speak a thousand words here. The drama is subtle yet very profound where the vulnerabilities and the insecurities of the couple are nicely explored. In the meanwhile, you get a glimpse of the other story as well. Finally when the timelines match, you are just filled with a lot of warmth at the end. I feel films tackling such subjects indeed tend to broaden your horizon as you get a glimpse into the psyche of the characters and the hardships which they face, something which anyone else would easily overlook! In other words, the screenplay is really heartfelt and does a brilliant job in conveying the point without getting preachy.
Dialogues, Music & Direction
The dialogues are conversational and they really leave a mark here! The BGM is sparingly used which adds to the complexity of the drama. Director Tushar Tyagi has done a terrific job in handling the subject with utmost sensitivity. I really enjoy the new age filmmakers trying to explore topics which were traditionally reduced to a caricature.
Performances
The performances are excellent here. Srestha Banerjee as Ruby has her moments to shine as does Sidharth Bhardwaj. Priyanka Setia has a charming presence. Adil Hussain is so well restrained and he was an absolute pleasure to watch! Edward Sonnenblick is excellent here and it was refreshing to watch him in a totally different role. Dipannita Sharma looks very pretty and pulls off her role with utmost dignity. But the best written character is that of Sachin Bhatt who has an interesting conflict to his character and is the most vulnerable. He is the character which is closer to his roots and hence he knows the problem of living in a country where he has grown up in. And what a beautiful performance, really matured yet vulnerable.
Conclusion
Saving Chintu is a brilliant heartfelt short which demands your attention. Available on Hotstar and Highly Recommended!