“Amma Meri (Mother)” (2017) by Tarun Jain

A test of emotions, patience and circumstances – this is what life is all about.

We value short films because they are playgrounds for early-career and emerging filmmakers. The format allows filmmakers to experiment when they have little at stake. It offers a space to make mistakes, which are essential in the process of honing one’s craft.

Short films are also where a filmmaker develops their creative voice and defines their own unique style, which often stays with them. This week’s film, ‘Amma Meri’ (Mother) does exactly this, and exceptionally well, for filmmaker Tarun Jain. It displays a strong creative voice and style, giving the emerging filmmaker a clear storytelling identity.

‘Mother’ sets the premise succinctly in the first three (single shot) scenes of the film. The shots are wide and long, yet they convey enough to grab the viewer’s attention. Located in seemingly authentic rural north-India, the film manages to touch upon universal themes. The stillness of the ageing mother contrasts well with the near constant movement of her son, Balram. Even in Balram’s stillness, his mind races. The mother’s blurry point of view, shown only twice in the film, creates a claustrophobic frustration. This frustration echoes at every step in the story, assisted by the jarring sound design. Despite the reticent storytelling, there are strong moments of mystery and suspense. The story of a son struggling to secure his family’s future sounds simple enough. But the juxtaposition of the characters’ opposing motivations makes for a gripping drama.