The LGBTQIA+ community is scarcely represented in different entertainment mediums. Their feelings, emotions and thoughts never find any depiction. The only acknowledgement they ever get is to add that 'comical element' in a project. But here’s a short film that doesn’t comedify them.
'Baby Steps' is about Delhi-boy Dev (Akshay Oberoi) who lives in Mumbai for work. His only family is his mother (Soni Razdan), who is trying to keep busy after the death of Dev’s father. During a regular video call, Dev is pestered about when he will get married by his mother. That’s when she meets Ishaan, who is introduced as Dev’s colleague.
In reality though, Dev and Ishaan (Paras Tomar) are lovers. As the conversation evolves, both mother and son surprise each other with the developments in their lives. Even as the film gets emotional, it never slips into sentimentality.
The love between a mother and a child is always special but this film also talks about acceptance and respect. Acceptance of who you are and respect for the other’s life choices, especially if they are family.
The face of cinema is changing and it is a delight to watch such accepting films. “I love you, no matter who you love” are words to live by! The portrayal of the gay couple is a far cry from the typical humor element and that is such a welcome change.
The only disappointment is Tomar's character. He falls in the typical ‘gay’ persona and which may not be true for every grey character.
Joyeeta Chatterjee’s sensitively written short film 'Baby Steps' captures the evolution of the relationship between a mother and her son over each other’s sexuality in under 10 minutes.
Watch the short movie here:
