Bebaak

A powerful short film on a critical social issue that has been made with precise economy - of characters, events, dialogues and acting.

The film was such a welcome surprise for me. I'd seen it during the year the film was taken out of MAMI, and I was so angry at MAMI for having taken the film out, because it represented everything that they were saying they stood for. So I was very happy to have seen it and felt so strongly for it. Shazia doesn't seem like a first time filmmaker at all. Assured debut with a firm resolve in the way its told. It helps to have an actor like Nawaz around and also the lead actor was fabulous. Beautiful performances, beautifully shot, art directed, written. Looking forward to SHazia's first feature eagerly. The indie scene needs more such voices.

Bebaak based on a true story deals competently with all the three subjects concisely. A muslim man who it seems finds it difficult to raise a family of four bikering kids takes his eldest daughter to a muslim charitable trust which provides finance for education. The girl played convincingly by Sarah Hashmi, wants to pursue architecture. Her meeting with the officer of the trust played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui does not go well because the girl is not wearing hijab. The orthodox officer asks her to come again with proper Muslim attire covering her body and head if she wants to have finance. The applicant girl faces a dilemma as all modern girls must be facing in a gender biased religious society. Will she succumb?

Top class performance by Sarah Hashmi and Nawazuddin makes this short film achieve it's objective; how long will this bigotry persist in modern India?

Shazia Iqbal's Bebaak is a proper masterclass in short filmmaking... the sort that leaves you rather stunned long after the credits roll.

This true story follows Fatin, an architecture student facing blatant discrimination during a scholarship interview with a religious trust committee.

Sarah Hashmi delivers an absolutely cracking performance as the determined student challenged by Nawazuddin Siddiqui's stern religious authority for not wearing a hijab. Her defiant expressions and steely resolve make every moment count - it's genuinely gripping stuff.

The screenplay crafts a compelling tale of quiet oppression that feels utterly relevant. The film explores patriarchal control over women's choices, built on systematic theological interpretations demanding female modesty and compliance.

What makes Bebaak brilliant is its restraint: no theatrical melodrama, just quiet resistance simmering beneath the surface. The tension builds through Fatin's internal conflict between financial necessity and personal dignity, creating an atmosphere thick enough to cut with a knife.

It challenges established norms whilst leaving viewers with proper food for thought about societal pressures women face daily.

Rating: 8.5/10 (Essential viewing that proves short films can deliver more impact than most feature-length efforts)

Bebaak is a powerful and thought-provoking film that leaves a lasting impact on its viewers. Directed by Shazia Iqbal, this socially relevant drama tackles issues of gender discrimination and societal oppression in a nuanced and compelling manner.

The film's strength lies in its authentic portrayal of the protagonist, played brilliantly by Kritika Sachdeva, who embodies the struggles faced by countless women in a patriarchal society. Her performance is raw, emotional, and utterly convincing, drawing the audience into her character's world.

The screenplay, written by Shazia Iqbal and Shivali Tukdeo, is a well-crafted narrative that effectively sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by women in their pursuit of independence and self-expression. The dialogues are sharp and poignant, resonating with the audience long after the credits roll.

The cinematography by Aditya Varma captures the essence of the story beautifully, using a mix of intimate close-ups and wide shots that effectively convey the emotions of the characters and the stark realities they confront.

The film's soundtrack, composed by Benedict Taylor and Naren Chandavarkar, complements the narrative perfectly, adding depth and emotion to the scenes.

While "Bebaak" is a powerful social commentary, it does not shy away from moments of vulnerability and tenderness, providing a well-rounded portrayal of its characters. The film is unapologetic in its approach, and its boldness is a testament to the filmmakers' commitment to shedding light on important issues.

Overall, "Bebaak" is a must-watch for its exceptional performances, engaging storytelling, and its unflinching examination of the societal pressures faced by women. It is a film that challenges norms and leaves the viewer with a sense of introspection and a renewed perspective on the struggles of women in contemporary society.