Zero

Introduction –

Very few films leave a lasting impression on our minds. Zero is one of them. With minimum glamor and absolute rustic settings, this short film by Mihir Mahidar offers entertainment, meaningful message and insight into how a low budget cinematic work too can fetch ten million views.

Synopsis –

The film begins with several montages of the area close to the highway. The vignettes offer minute details of the terrain, the nature and the absence of humanity except for the passing vehicles. The focus then shifts on a teen-aged, lone boy ( Irfan Khan ) standing outside his makeshift, rundown tea shack.

His furtive glances at the highway and the passing vehicles reflect anxiety. None of the cars or the bikes stops. It turns him wary. He looks at his dead father’s photo frame, complete with garland, as if accusing him of being responsible for his bad luck. Tired, he steps inside the shack and even mimics making tea for a nonexistent person. The day eventually ends on a sad note. The young boy receives no customers.

Days later a magic happens. He begins to receive a steady flow of customers. Car drivers stop for refreshments, groups halt for a few quick drags and tea. The lad is stunned at the turn of events although the abrupt change of fortune turns him skeptical during the brief lull.

Watch the film to know the reason for the unusual windfall.

The lone actor, Irfan Khan does a stupendous job, playing the role of an orphan left with a tea stall in the midst of nowhere. The message is clear; luck and patience can change the fortunes. Direction is spot on, especially in scenes where Irfan Khan is making shadow animals out of boredom and playing with carpenter ants with a stick. While city youth perpetually cry for bigger and better things in life people like ‘Chotu’ aka Irfan Khan find solace in even small triumphs of life.

Analysis –

As a team we found a couple of cavils. Usually travelers stop for a break when they are away from their destination and not when they are close as shown in this film. In spite of reading the milestone why do people keep enquiring about Nanakheda? Is it because of the confusion or typical Indian traveler habit? Do comment and let us know.

Year of Release – 2016 | Director – Mihir Mahidar | Screenplay – Mihir Mahidar | Running Time – 10 Minutes | Availability – YouTube | Mihir Mahidar