Reflective Encounters

“On returning to India from the US for her sister’s wedding, Anita finds herself juggling disparate parts of her personality. Writer and director Sushma Khadepaun creates an impressive amount of depth in this short, which tussles with expectation, identity and independence. In addition to her screenwriting skills, Khadepaun has a strong grasp on visual storytelling - a round mirror becomes a frame in which Anita is trapped, and off-centre placement of characters builds upon the sense of dissatisfaction that permeates the film.

Returning home after being away is a rich theme to draw upon for storytellers. Questions of who we truly are and what we want tend to bubble up to the surface when we spend time with family. Anita allows us to feel the protagonist's pulls of uncertainty, and the deep wounds that can be caused by those closest to us when they fail to respect our independence.

A complex portrait of a modern Indian woman, Anita feels like the beginning of a story that is ready to be told. Khadepaun is a skilful and generous filmmaker with a firm grip on storytelling and character building. Here, she shows an admirable willingness to create challenging narratives and interrogate relationships.”

— Malaika Kegode