Maniac

Irshhad Sheikh

India / 2024 / Fiction / 16’53”I2501914

Maniac
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SYNOPSIS

Maniac is a gripping and thought-provoking short film that explores the complexities of survival, morality, and the consequences of one's actions in a world marred by poverty, corruption, and injustice. Set against the backdrop of a festive Diwali night, the story follows the interconnected lives of various characters, each grappling with their own struggles and demons. At the heart of the narrative is Ishu, a young girl who falls victim to a horrific act of violence involving a sutli bomb hidden in a laddu(Indian sweet). As her story unfolds, we are introduced to a cast of characters whose lives are irrevocably changed by this incident, including Sandes, a determined activist fighting against corruption; Shrikant, a conflicted police officer; and Disha, a woman struggling with her own mental health and the weight of her past. Through a non-linear narrative and powerful visual storytelling, Maniac delves into the depths of the human experience, raising important questions about poverty, corruption, mental health, and the human capacity for both cruelty and resilience. With its raw and unflinching approach, the film offers a searing commentary on the social issues that plague our society and the challenges of maintaining one's humanity in the face of adversity.

GÉNÉRIQUE