Riha

Riha is a cinematic experience that masterfully employs the art of showing rather than telling.

Every frame speaks volumes.

From the first scene in the kitchen, the lighting sets the tone - quiet yet full of meaning. The film's brilliance shines through its nuanced commentary on patriarchy and power dynamics, captured in the simplest yet most profound gestures, like a woman (Zoya, the lead female actor) offering water before the glass even empties.

The film's attention to detail is impeccable. The choice of a Saare Jahan Se Achha ringtone on a mechanic's phone is a stroke of genius. It speaks a lot about the Identity crisis a particular community suffers in the country.

The silence between the two women (Zoya and her neighbour) speaks louder than words, creating a powerful emotional undercurrent. I also loved how symbolism plays a crucial role in Riha, primarily through the recurring motif of locks - both during the film and at the end. The young boy's (Zoya's son) performance is another highlight; he brings authenticity and depth

And then there's the ending-a deliberate, thought-provoking conclusion that leaves us with a thought: "What happens next"? Did Zoya also break the locks of her life? Did she leave the home?

There is a beautiful silence in the film in every frame that only a few can listen, and I loved the silence that screamed in every scene.

A must watch!

I watched this film early in the morning. I really appreciate how there are so many scenes enough for the viewer to know what's been going on for decades in the household. The actors have done a wonderful, WONDERFUL job so much so that the viewer can immediately feel the ease when the husband (Ashwath Bhatt) leaves the space. I even felt the comfort Ayesha (Vara Raturi) felt with Zoya (Indu Sharma). Fantastic acting and direction.

The neighbor, played by the lovely Zakia Soman - such a warm, comforting and reassuring smile. It's a gentle reminder of how MUCH we rely on other humans in our personal battles.

Great work on the lighting too. The whole bright afternoon light outside the building vs. The rather dark light at home reflects how the world was going on just fine outside while it has been so so tense at home.

I am especially amazed by the acting of the young actor Ahad Khan. Especially that scene at 19:07 (amazing!).

This film is a must watch.

A great film is a delicate balance of distinct and nuanced excellence in multiple areas such as cinematography, music, actors, pacing, set, costumes, and so much more. But what truly binds them all together, what really resonates and makes a film have a life of it's own is the story! After all we humans crave and thrive on stories and that fundamental is what all art forms are about.

Riha truly unlocks this for me. How a strong storyline resonates and truly leaves you shaken, how it makes you empathetic towards your fellow humans and more importantly even to your own lived experiences, and how it just nurtures you with warmth while leaving you wanting for more!

Disclaimer - I know the director and writer of the movie personally.

Disclaimer to the disclaimer - Knowing him personally has only further enriched this experience for me because of how his painful childhood has been captured so authentically and portrayed in a heart warming and beautiful manner!

Strongly recommend watching this!

Riha left me with a sense of deep belief in self worth and the ability to rise above the odds if you grit your mind and stiffen / straighten your shoulders focussing only on the purpose of rising above injustice ...like the young Ayesha(actress Vara Raturi) does in the bench when waiting to speak to the lawyer. Generations of being subdued by male power and specially when it comes to a husband is habitual and having the strength to fight against it or simply "Not Obey" when he wants you to lock your son so he can study ..needs superhuman strength as is portrayed subtly by the main protagonist Zoya (Indu Sharma)..and the catalyst Ayesha(Vara). I loved acting of both father and son too ...there was no physical beating by social worker and father (Ashwatt Bhat) but the loud silence and blaring male authority in the house is enough to mentally traumatize the boy Ryan ( Ahad Khan) and mother and nieghbor and even the audience! The director (Arastu Zakia)has woven a beautiful sensitive subtle brave and empowering short film. All the actors have given their best and added to the plot. The camera has been directed to focus on the unseen and it does it so well. Special mention to the lawyer Naved Aslam and father and young daughter of Ayesha too . I recommend it most highly ,it is a must see .

Gripping and emotionally charged film that really opened my eyes about the reality and the complexity of domestic abuse, also the resilience of women trapped in oppressive circumstances. Superb acting and a compelling narrative, it left a lasting impact on me. Watched it again with two of my friends and they were also speechless in the end. Heart of the film I feel is the story, brilliant writing - Also loved the cinematography some scenes have stuck with me and made me questions like what's really going on, the bedroom & the highway drive scene. Great first attempt at making a film - looking forward to more that can make me think & feel.