Films that focus on didactism are not so common in cinema, since their basis makes them more appropriate for TV programs rather than the big screen. Sauvik Pandit tries to change this, by coming up with a short that is both educational and cinematic.
“The Inception of Pursuit” review is part of the Submit Your Film Initiative
The narrative consists of a single father and his son, who is of school age, discussing about various topics, with the kid asking and the father replying as eloquently and concise as he can. Their discussions include religion and the reasons for the differences between Muslims and Hindus, chasing one's own dreams, kindness and compassion, art, history, the past and the present, and many other topics. In order to keep his son interested, the father uses various mediums in order to teach him, including poetry, allegoric stories and his own past.
This approach emerges as somewhat repetitive, moralistic and on the nose, with the acting not helping particularly in that regard, but on the other hand, the approach of the father in his teaching and the messases he communicates to his son are ideal, as the lessons against racism, about compassion and respect to the people around you are among those all parents should teach their children. At the same time, in combination with the patience, understanding and encouragement he shows, deem his ways another lesson, this time on proper parenthood.
Furthermore, the shitar music that is heard throughout, and most of all the impressive cinematography by Subir Roy, who highlights the rural beauties of the area in the most artful way, add the necessary cinematic values to the film, essentially elevating it above the educational program. In combination with Pandit's own editing, the 20 minute short is also induced with a tour-guide element, through the succession of many different locations, that also works quite well for the movie.
“The Inception of Pursuit” is essentially an educational film, but, at the same time, through the audiovisual artistry, so much more.
Thank you so much for this wonderful review.