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First, the Recap:
Closeness. It’s something we all long for. To be noticed, much less accepted and/or adored by another can be one of the most fulfilling aspects life can offer. However, when the object of our initial attentions may or may not be residing in the same mindset as we are, what can occur when the desired affections might not be returned? For humble Kamble (Shrikant Yadav), the times he longs for arrive on the day he chooses, Sundays, to visit the local barber shop for a trim. However, his reasoning to actually be there goes beyond this, in the form of barber Jaan (Prakash Joshi), who always makes Kamble feel appreciated and welcome. Does the feeling go farther for both, or is Kamble facing a one-sided affair?
Next, my Mind:
How we see (and judge!) ourselves, the assessment of our self-image and esteem, and the yearning for that which we wish to have in the ongoing search for abiding warmth and fondness are some of the foundational thematic elements being explored through this 10-minute short film effort, enjoying its North American Premier, arriving courtesy of writer/director/producer Arun Fulara plus producers Rangoli Agarwal, Darshana Binakar, and Pooja Chauhan, which screened as part of the LGBTQ Programming at the 2021 NYC South Asian Film Festival sponsored by Toyota and hosted by Festival Director/Jingo Media Founder Jitin Hingorani and Artistic Director Ambica Dev. What this critic more than often states about the ever-present love of indie cinema is how wonderfully effective an abbreviated runtime can be while still being able to witness a full narrative unfold, and that is done here in nicely simple and quietly engaging style.
The tale of a middle-aged man who has more than just a haircut on his mind when visiting his local barber shop is presented in a manner through which we can fully relate to the lead character and the overall sense of eagerness we can encounter when seeing that certain person that, honestly, really “does it” for us while so hoping there would be an inroad to enjoy their company beyond the present circumstance. The film showcases this occurring with Kamble via both conjecture and the tactile moments he has with the object of his affections, and it really elicits that air of loneliness and truly desperate need to be loved that drives the core message intended. Additionally, even as these more direct interactions are happening, it leads to an admittedly touching finale that sees Kamble considering another change based on a suggestion from his sought after, but still only in mind, paramour.
This is the beauty of the film, though, in that it leaves us at a perfect place to allow our own assumptions and possibilities to flow freely when it comes to Kamble, wondering just exactly how things could end up for him, hoping for the best. Visually the film is straightforward, focused on Kamble and Jaan so as to set apart the emotions and sentiments being conveyed. And it’s also another example of how these particular themes involving the LGBTQ-centric paths can illustrate this in so subtle yet purposeful ways, which really is what makes this an effort that can go beyond this subject and allow us to realize the level of relatability here regardless of one’s lifestyle choice. It’s what I have (unexpectedly, I will say for me personally) come to admire greatly about the films of this central theme I have now screened at both NYC SAFF and DFW SAFF over the last several years, a total tribute to the picture of humanity and the need for better understanding and love to the community the efforts represent.
Yadav is so innocently charming through his role here as Kamble, a man of advancing years who finds himself overtly infatuated with a younger man at the barber shop he goes to each and every Sunday. Becoming a time in his week that is highly anticipated because of the feelings he has for Jaan, it makes the instances where he finally gets into the chair even more fulfilling for him in every way he can hope, yet never quite to the place he really wishes to go. Yet, the conversations and “intimate” moments shared are undeniably palpable, and Yadav just brings this to life with uncomplicated wonder and believability. Joshi likewise has a pure, natural delivery in his role as the barber Jaan, who finds joy and connection with his customers and may not at all realize that one customer is more than just interested in his follicle-driven handiwork. And a key comment he makes to Kamble is paramount to the story, and Joshi solidly enacts all his character’s nuances with easy-going manner and poise.
The primary supporting appearance is made by Shreyas Chougule. So, in total, while “Sunday” in itself doesn’t necessarily carry an absolute “WOW!” factor in its tale of unrequited (?) endearment, don’t let that steer you away from what is a pleasant and fun little drama that plays so well into anyone’s notions or experiences with pining for someone we like but may not ever have the opportunity to go further with outside the present conditions we have with them. It’s a reminder of our needs, their validity, and the quest for being genuinely “seen” and loved, all of which are never a bad thing to strive for.
Miss viewing “Sunday” at either physical festival? Worry not! Check out the film online as it currently screens as part of Virtual SAFF 2021!
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
