Prabhu, the protagonist in the Kannada short film “Overbridge” finds himself in a never-ending time loop. He contemplates his future from an overbridge, overlooking a busy road. Burdened by his inability to find employment despite numerous qualifications, his mind is shrouded in fear and uncertainty, and he’s on the verge of a mental breakdown. It is imperative for Prabhu to find a job. However, a strange incident on the road might cause him to lose sight of himself; it further blurs the lines between his reality and his paranoia.
Screenwriter Anshu Chukki weaves a story that is equal parts puzzling and insightful. The repetitive dialogue too is indicative of the protagonist’s underlying worries, helplessness, and frenzied state of mind. Prabhu’s journey in fact may resonate highly with viewers who have undergone similar inescapable circumstances, such as a hopeless attempt at seeking unemployment or even a failing relationship that has proved to be nothing but disastrous.
The short film also benefits from masterful editing by Arani Sen that further intensifies the sense of paranoia; Prabhu finds himself scuttling between the busy road and the overbridge, unsure of whether he’s hallucinating certain events or not. Meanwhile, uncaring masses continue to rush past him on their own errands. Umesh Madanahali also turns in a striking performance as the conflicted protagonist, Prabhu.
“Overbridge” is a brief, painful, and commendable film that provides much-needed insight into the pitfalls of how society—as well as a competitive employment sector—can fail an individual, and is thus worth a watch.
This review of “Overbridge” is part of our continuing coverage of the New York Indian Film Festival.
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