The reason why I was driven to write this film is because of how bizarre the actual incident really was. There’s a dialogue in the film which says ‘Reality is stranger than fiction’ and I truly believe that.Arkish Aftab
A film by Arkish Aftab, 'Rat in the Kitchen' serves as a stark commentary on the consequences of negligence, both personal and societal, and the resulting erosion of safety and security blends elements of neo-noir, horror, and thriller genres to make a narrative that cuts to the bone of human experience. At its core, the integration of these elements resonates deeply with the viewer, drawing them into a world where the boundaries between the ordinary and the horrifying blur.
The film revolves around the everyday life of Vikram, who is a middle-aged man who recently experienced a bitter separation from his wife. This event has left him grappling with a sense of loneliness and emotional turmoil. Once a content family man, Vikram now finds himself living alone, navigating the complexities of a newfound solitude.
The film's visual tone, characterised by gritty and dark undertones, serves as a visual metaphor for Vikram's internal turmoil. Through careful cinematography and art direction, the audience is immediately immersed in Vikram's world of desolation and neglect, a world that mirrors his own psychological state. The use of darkness and shadows further amplifies the sense of foreboding, effectively setting the stage for the eerie revelations that follow.
Most of us in the team (be it Afroz, Mantra Sir or Yash Kamat, the DOP), are ardent fans of the Neo-noir genre. I love Korean Thrillers - the likes of Oldboy, Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, I saw the Devil, among others. The genre came naturally to me because of the tone of the story. The push from my co-creators and producers, Purvi Khan and Afroz Khan of Orange Elephant Studios, was why Rat in the Kitchen happened in the first place.Arkish Aftab
It has a protagonist who is world-weary and morally ambiguous in Vikram, a femme fatale who you can not trust in Riya (portrayed superbly by Aishwarya Desai) and a world where there is a foreboding sense of dread.Arkish Aftab
Vikram's descent into loneliness, negligence, and alcoholism is portrayed with raw authenticity, thanks to the stellar performances by Mantra Mugdh and Aishwarya Desai. The portrayal of Vikram and his struggles evokes genuine empathy, making his journey all the more harrowing. As the audience witnesses Vikram's daily life unravel, they are forced to confront the very real consequences of personal neglect and isolation, a theme that strikes a chord with viewers on a universal level.
The introduction of the rat infestation serves as a catalyst for Vikram's awakening, a stark reminder that even the most mundane problems can fester and grow when left unaddressed. This metaphor extends beyond the literal rats, encapsulating the broader issue of societal negligence and the resulting erosion of safety nets. Vikram's decision to install CCTV cameras symbolises a desperate attempt to regain control and security in his own life, an action born out of both fear and a growing realization of the gravity of his situation.
The film delves into urban isolation, warped relationships, and, most importantly, negligence. Negligence is the central theme we focused on. It permeates every aspect, from Vikram neglecting his well-being to the watchman shirking his duty or Riya who is neglectful of Vikram’s plight and suffering. The consequence of negligence ultimately leads Vikram to become the 'architect of his own destruction'.Arkish Aftab
The pivotal moment in the film, when Vikram views the CCTV footage, is filled with suspenseful storytelling. The viewer is held in breathless anticipation, their own paranoia mirroring Vikram's. What we witness on screen is a revelation that goes beyond the typical boundaries of horror. It's not a supernatural entity that haunts Vikram's safe space, but something far more sinister — a violation of privacy that strikes at every viewer's deepest fears.
This can be compared to Frankenstein’s Monster. Mantra Mugdh, who has essayed the role of Vikram with such subtlety, and has rightfully won an award for his performance, has perfectly embodied this bitter man who is angry at the world for his grief, yet we see glimpses of his vulnerable side as well.Arkish Aftab
The film's roots in a real-life event — the street rat problem — add a layer of authenticity and urgency to the narrative. By weaving this societal issue into the fabric of the story, the film confronts viewers with the uncomfortable reality that neglect, whether of personal relationships or broader societal problems, carries tangible and often devastating consequences.
In urban cities, we lead fast-paced, detached lives, often self-absorbed. We seldom consider how our actions impact others. It's only when the ramifications come back to haunt us directly, do we face them. We tend to avoid addressing uncomfortable emotions, thoughts, or problems. 'Rat in the Kitchen' serves as a metaphor. Just like the "Elephant in the Room’ where you do not address this big issue which is obviously present and everyone can clearly see, 'Rat in the Kitchen' is an issue which is supposedly small and trivial, until you come face to face with itArkish Aftab
‘Rat in the Kitchen’ is a tour de force in the realm of short films, which is releasing super soon on Jio Cinema. Its deft handling of genre, coupled with its unflinching exploration of neglected lives and the horrors they may harbour, elevates it to a level of storytelling that is as relevant as it is chilling.
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