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Introduction –
The dictionary meaning of nostalgia is yearning for something … from the past. Longing for friends, especially those who have moved away, is one such example. This intense desire to meet, chat is triggered by many things, and alcohol is one of them. This short film is not just about any drink. It is about Old Monk, the iconic brand and legendary Indian dark rum.
Synopsis –
Pinto ( Sanjay Mishra ), a typical happy go lucky Goan resident opens a bottle of Old Monk and then pours himself a drink. Minutes later, his friend ( Jitu Shastri ) calls him from across the open bar ( Residential ). Pinto is glad to see him. A smile appears on his face. He quickly fixes a large drink for his friend whom he lovingly addresses as “The King of Sawantwadi”
The friends talk about their time in Mumbai, their meeting with Nana Patekar during the play, Jitu’s girlfriend and a host of other events that are common between friends ( Boys ). The bottle finally turns empty. Jitu warns Pinto who says he will get more.
Spoiler Ahead – Stop reading if haven’t watched or plan to watch this film
When Pinto lifts his head up he sees an empty chair. It was his yearning with whom he’d spent the entire time. Old Monk does it … every time.
Analysis –
The setting is surreal – moonlit and filled with sounds of cricket and swaying trees. On the performance front Sanjay Mishra is simply outstanding. One can actually see him getting drunk … from the first peg to the time the bottle turns empty. His speech evolves and so does his eyes and expression. However, direction and cinematography could have been better.
Year of Release – 2015 | Director – Yash Verma | Writer – Rohit Rajan | Running Time – 11 Minutes | Availability – YouTube | Switch Off Films