The concept of the mannequin has been used repeatedly in cinema, from horror films to romantic comedies, with the “doll that comes to life” being the most usual “trick” in that regard. Suryadoy Ghosh implements both the concept and the trick, in a way, though, this is quite original.
“Inanimate” review is part of the Submit Your Film Initiative
Ani is a young man who works in a dead-end corporate job, has no friends, and in general, seems detached from his whole environment. The only solace he finds in his life comes from fixing broken old toys and vintage electronics, frequently given to him by a neighbor boy, who seems to be his only social acquaintance. One day, he finds a disassembled mannequin near his house, and although reluctant at first, eventually he carries the broken pieces to his workshop and assembles the whole thing from the beginning, even dressing the doll with pretty clothes. After a few days, Ani notices some minimal movements, and eventually the mannequin turns into a beautiful woman. Ani is finally filled with joy, as the time he spends with his newfound love seems to be the happiest in his life. It does not last for long though.
Suryadoy Ghosh creates a very interesting world in this 24-minute short, particularly in the way he induces it with a certain dreaminess, which does not allow the viewers to be certain if what they are watching is the reality or the dream of a troubled mind. This ambiguity works quite well for the narrative, adding a sense of mystery, that is intensified by both Prachie Bedi's excellent cinematography and the way sound and music are implemented in the movie. Sneha Ghosh's acting in the role of the mannequin also adds to this sense, as her silent performance, impressive beauty and awkward movement work excellently for the concept of the “doll that comes to life”.
In terms of context, the film is equally interesting. The alienation and sense of loneliness many people feel in the contemporary way of life are highlighted intently in the face of Ani, with Ghosh essentially stating that the current trend regarding all kinds of retro could have something to do with this exact sense. At the same time, and through the rather dramatic story, he also comments on joy, grief, loss and the infuriation the latter can cause, along with the extremes people can reach in order to find love. Rohan Khurana's acting as Ani is quite convincing, highlighting the aforementioned comments eloquently, in a rather difficult role that has him exhibiting different types of feelings and psychological statuses with equal artistry.
Add to all the above an intriguing twist in the story and a surprising ending, and you have one of the best shorts we have seen recentlly, both contextually and technically
