The short film “7 Star Dinosor Entertainment,” written and directed by debutante Vaishali Naik, is filmed in the style of a documentary. It focuses on the plight of two brothers, Sudhir and Vinod, and offers viewers a firsthand experience of what the lockdown has wrought upon them.
We learn that both of them are hard-core “Jurassic Park” fans; before the pandemic hit, they shared this enthusiasm with the public by entertaining at parties in full dinosaur gear. However with the arrival of Covid-19, they face an uncertain future. They’ve only a cake gifted by a rich client acting as the final essential resource that’s ensured their survival, and are just a step away from certain extinction.
Combining Comedy and Dark Subject Matter Deftly
Director Naik approaches the subject matter at hand in a darkly comedic fashion; however, she never lets the subtle and humourous undertones overshadow the severity of the deteriorating mental condition of the protagonists. As their physical conditions worsen, this eventually culminates in a climax that has the same impact as a raging battle between two dinosaurs fighting tooth and nail for survival. The movie also serves as a biting commentary on the migrant experience. It’s an homage to those who persevere against earth-shaking events, despite simultaneously losing their identity and their rights.
While this short may be difficult to digest, it serves as essential viewing…”
The long-suffering nature of the protagonists is vividly noticeable during several of the movie’s scenes. For example, one shows Vinod laughing at the memory of Sudhir trying and failing at procuring free food from a hospital under the guise of a Covid-positive patient; another involves him recalling traditional methods followed in their native village to combat starvation. A shot of the brothers stacking up a plethora of religious paraphernalia reveals even faith isn’t enough to stave off starvation or the fear of extinction.
Essential Commentary on Working Class Conditions During the Pandemic
The background score is fitting; it inserts dinosaur screeches during a low point in the duo’s lives, lending an intense and morose tone to proceedings. Among the performances, Rahul Sahu lends a wise-cracking and childlike innocence to the younger brother Vinod; he leaves an impression with his captivating expressions and body language. Kapil Dev, as the older Sudhir, lends him ample support.
While this short may be difficult to digest, it serves as essential viewing; it helps us understand the depth of the catastrophe the pandemic left in its wake. This is particularly true for the working class who never received their due, even prior to the pandemic.
“7 Star Dinosor Entertainment” was reviewed as part of our continuing coverage of the New York Indian Film Festival.
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