Society has a certain effect on all of us, and we perceive almost all our surroundings from a pre-defined objective lens. A popular example of this is, “Pink is for girls, and blue is for boys.” This objectivity is easy to follow, adapt to, and pass on to upcoming generations. However, it can have a lasting impact, a negative one for anyone who thinks differently. There is a countless history of subjugation, loneliness, and the need for understanding. In light of the 78th Independence Day, let us take an oath to accept, appreciate, and celebrate all forms of freedom. We bring you a 30-minute short film embracing the nuances of family, personal freedom and its acceptance in society.
Plot Summary
Written and directed by Ria Dinesh & Arjun Krish, F for Freedom opens with the scene of Shyama Gauri (Laya Simmpson), a homemaker, cooking her favourite prawn curry for the family dinner. To her disappointment, she learns that all the family members have other dinner plans, leaving her to eat alone. The film features an ordinary family which is dysfunctional in some ways and highly appreciative of each other in others.
The film follows the story of this family of four. Ravi Menon (Johnny B) is the CEO of an IT company. Sachin (Sanju Sanichen), the elder son, is an electrical engineer who works in IT. He is a bit shy but loves to cook and sing, and he is the one closest to his mother, though he does not express it much. Pooja (Aiswarya Menon), the younger daughter, is a college senior, who is mostly focused on herself and social media. The couple has been married for 30 years, but Shyama often feels taken for granted by the family.
The family has a deep love for each other, but they do not often express it. Everyone is caught up in their own lives, except for Shyama, who spends her free time from family duties exploring new hobbies and interests and even trying to develop them professionally. As the story unfolds, we follow the relationships between these four people. One day, the mother suggests the family take a vacation together. It is this vacation where the family members learn new things about each other.
F for Freedom: Take Away
The film F for Freedom beautifully depicts the complexities of personal freedom and its delicate balance within the family structure. As Shyama navigates her evolving identity amid traditional expectations, she embodies the struggle faced by many women. She struggles to assert autonomy while navigating societal norms that prioritize family duty over personal desires. Alongside, Sachin’s life takes a big turn, and her acceptance in society and family gets delicate, further highlighting his quest for personal freedom.