‘Scenes from a Pandemic,’ a poignant 20-minute English-Hindi short film, takes viewers back to the time when the world grappled with a new normal during pandemic-induced lockdowns. Crafted by the talented Tanmaya Shekhar, who not only wrote but also directed the film, it offers a vivid snapshot of life turned upside-down. This evocative film, which is currently streaming on HumaraMovie’s YouTube Channel, was skillfully produced by Tanmaya and Molshri, who also plays the lead role, navigating the turbulent waters of relationships amid global chaos.
Having garnered a nomination for the esteemed Critics Choice Awards (2024) by the Film Critics Guild of India in categories such as Best Short Film, Best Writer, Best Director, and Best Actress, ‘Scenes From a Pandemic’ uses a mix of visual storytelling methods including Instagram stories, WhatsApp conversations, and Zoom call visuals to narrate its story.
As the plot thickens, it delves into the lives of Molshri, the practical and level-headed protagonist, and her friend Shruti, played by Bhavya Grover, who is more inclined to embrace the moment. Both fresh out of college, they relocate from Jaipur to Mumbai, starting their first jobs in the bustling metropolis. The contrast between the two is evident from the get-go; Molshri is initially apprehensive about the exorbitant rent for their new apartment in Bandra, while Shruti encourages her to be less concerned and more adaptive, embracing their newfound independence.
The early segments of the film beautifully capture their journey in Mumbai through the lens of social media, particularly Instagram. It is through their stories and posts that viewers get acquainted with their experiences—their excitement, their small triumphs, and initial struggles—reflecting a generation that lives and breathes social media.
The narrative then shifts gears, portraying the sudden and drastic changes brought by the lockdowns. Communication with parents evolves from sporadic WhatsApp messages to frequent video calls, and eventually, Zoom meetings become the new normal. The nostalgia of simpler times, marked by grocery shopping frenzies for instant noodles, is intersected with the harsh reality of the pandemic’s second wave. The struggle to find hospital resources—beds, oxygen concentrators, plasma donors—adds a layer of grim authenticity to the story.
Tanmaya Shekhar’s film excels in showcasing how Molshri and Shruti, much like countless others around the world, are compelled to introspect and adapt.
. Through their lens, we see the resilience and determination of the human spirit. Molshri’s pragmatic nature and Shruti’s free-spirited approach both play pivotal roles in how they navigate the uncharted territory of life during a pandemic.
The casting of Molshri and Bhavya Grover is commendable. Their performances are not just apt but deeply resonant, reflecting the enthusiasm, impulsiveness, and tenacity of young adults on the precipice of new beginnings. Their chemistry on-screen feels natural and relatable, drawing the audience into their world.
The storyline spans over two years, a period marked by intense transformation. It is during this time that the characters must confront their fears, settle misunderstandings, heal from their losses, and find their way to new beginnings. Tanmaya’s narrative deftly interweaves these elements, making the viewer invest emotionally in the characters’ journeys.
As the end credits roll, the film poignantly dedicates itself “to all those who lost and found new love,” a fitting tribute to the myriad ways in which lives were reshaped during the pandemic. This dedication encapsulates the essence of the film, a reminder of the enduring power of human connections despite unprecedented challenges.
‘Scenes From a Pandemic’ serves as a moving time capsule, offering a heartfelt tribute to the era of lockdowns. For those who lived through it, the film evokes a nostalgic yet complex array of emotions, and for future generations, it stands as a historical narrative of resilience. Currently available for streaming on HumaraMovie’s YouTube channel, the short film is a must-watch for anyone seeking to revisit or understand the transformative period of the global pandemic.
