BISFF 2021: Asking the tough questions

Some of the featured shorts like ‘Kanya,’ ‘Public Toilet’ and ‘Dear Bhargava’ dealt with sensitive issues that mainstream films, more often than not, conveniently avoid

Cooking labelled as a woman’s job, travelling while on periods, and an LGBTQIA+ individual’s attempt at trying to get a ‘normal’ job in the eyes of society, were some of the themes in films featured at the Bengaluru International Short Film Festival (BISFF) that recently concluded on September 5, 2021. Amidst a plethora of choices for movie fans, in terms of genres, languages and sections, there were also panel discussions and workshops with filmmakers and industry professionals. . Film festivals in the age of the pandemic have resorted indefinitely to the virtual model. Even though OTT platforms have made the virtual viewing of films more comfortable and accessible, the traditional movie-going experience is something that cannot be replaced. Film festivals, over time, have become a wonderful platform for filmmakers and movie-goers to engage, discuss and debate over issues that are in currency.