Stunning short film is a dystopian drama with surprises
OSCAR qualifying Bangladeshi short film Moshari has won awards and delighted audiences at festivals around the world.
The Bengali language gem will have its UK premiere at the London Film Festival in October and is well worth finding. The story revolves around two young girls living in an apocalyptic world. When darkness falls, the sisters are warned to get under their protective mosquito nets for safety and prepare for another long night. You soon realise that the nets are not just saving them from killer mosquitos, but also something more horrific. When the innocent younger sister leaves the safety of her net, the older one must save her from a monstrous entity lurking in the shadows.
It is apparent from the opening scene of a rotting animal in a swamp-like setting, with a little girl praying, that this film will offer up surprises. Talented director Nuhash Humayun skilfully builds up the tension and offers a unique take on vampire-like monsters. His use of an atmospheric setting, stunning background music, sharp camerawork and precision editing add extra layers to the gripping film, which combines various genres seamlessly. He draws out great performances from the young leads and creates a memorable monstrous entity.
Like all great short films, this dystopian drama has surprises, a gripping storyline, and makes you want to see a feature film version. Those who look hard enough will find plenty of connections to climate change and interesting metaphors, including within the dialogues. Anyone who has ever been attacked by bloodsucking mosquitos will know their link to vampires.
It is not surprising that this film has won plaudits around the world, qualified for the Oscars, and drawn attention to a new kind of Bangladeshi cinema. That is why it is worth watching and likely the beginning of an exciting journey for the director.