MOVIE REVIEW
Dosh
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Genre: Drama, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 16m
Director(s): Radha Mehta
Writer(s): Radha Mehta, Noorah Al-Eidi
Cast: Renu Razdan, Nikhil Prakash, Tyler Anton, Mona Sishodia, Asit Vyas, Neel Agrawal, Nadine Naidoo, Shristi Birla, Dev Patel
Language: English, Hindi with English subtitles
Where To Watch: premiering at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival, www.slamdance.com or for more information, visit www.doshfilm.com

RAVING REVIEW: From the opening scene, DOSH captures your attention with its potent blend of drama and exploration into the depths of cultural intricacies. This film, rich in emotional and narrative depth, centers on an immigrant family navigating the hurdles of mental health issues and physical disabilities. Karishma (Renu Razdan), a South Asian mother with a hearing impairment, is the heart of this story, showcasing a spirit that resonates throughout the film.

Radha Mehta, the film's director and a hard-of-hearing mother (in reality,) infuses DOSH with an authenticity that only personal experience can bring. Her diverse skills as a director, painter, and musician contribute to the film's layered and nuanced approach. Her recent artistic achievements, including a showcase at Art Basel in Miami and her academic journey at the American Film Institute, lend more sophistication and cultural insight to this compelling narrative.

The plot reaches a critical juncture during a family pre-wedding ceremony, where her husband Ram's (Nikhil Prakash) unstable behavior threatens Karishma's son's well-being. This juncture marks more than just a crisis; it is a pivotal moment for Karishma, challenging entrenched mental health stigmas within her community. DOSH transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, venturing deep into the heart of personal battles, especially resonating with women and marginalized groups. Breaking away from conventional cinematic portrayals of disability, this bold and necessary move in film challenges and changes audience perspectives, igniting meaningful dialogues on these critical topics.

Mehta’s introspective and empathetic direction mirrors her journey toward self-acceptance and her more profound understanding of mental health challenges. The film serves as a reflection of her life experiences, influenced by her encounters with late-onset bipolar disorder. This emotional depth elevates DOSH beyond just another narrative; it symbolizes hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Earning widespread acclaim, including its inclusion in the prestigious Slamdance's Unstoppable series and securing a prime spot in the weekend feature presentation, Mehta’s debut raises the bar in storytelling. The film masterfully tackles themes of love, family, disability, and mental health into a seamless and engaging narrative.

DOSH is a must-watch for its profound storytelling, genuine cultural representation, and impactful approach to addressing significant societal challenges. The film serves as a reflective mirror to society, underscoring the critical importance of dialogues. Radha Mehta's directorial debut is a powerful and inspiring call to action for communities globally to foster a culture of empathy, understanding, and inclusive love.

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[photo courtesy of AMERICAN FILM INSTITUTE (AFI)]

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