Directed by Pranav Bhure, “Suffer: A Journey Through Life” is a 17-minute short film. It centres around the relationship between a hardworking father and his free-spirited son from a middle-class family. The film portrays a new and unconventional outlook on life, exploring how this perspective, while positive in some ways, can also have negative consequences for the characters. Through the father and son, the film explores the complexities that arise when different values collide within a family unit.
Plot (Spoiler Free)
The film opens with Karan (Ritesh Tiwari) getting ready for something formal and important. However, the specific nature of this event is not revealed at the start of the film. The plot then shifts to three months ago, when Karan, who has recently graduated from a university in Mumbai, is discussing job placements with his friend and recalling their college days. Karan also mentions visiting his parents back in their hometown, whom he has not seen in a long time.
As Karan journeys to his hometown, he is observed making some questionable purchases, such as buying earphones for a single train journey because he forgot to bring his old pair, and throwing away a bottle of water simply because he no longer needed it, even though he had bought it to wash his face instead of using the train’s tap water.
Upon his arrival home, Karan is confronted by his mother (Sujata Deshpande) about his reckless and mindless spending habits. Karan’s mother is shown facing financial difficulties due to his father’s (Abhijit Deshpande) recent job loss. However, the family is hesitant about how to break this news to Karan, who remains unaware of the recent developments, as they do not want to burden their child.
Suffer: Take Away
The relationship between Karan and his father is the central focus of the film. The father is portrayed as a hardworking and disciplined man who places a strong emphasis on financial responsibility and stability. In contrast, Karan is depicted as a free-spirited and carefree man who prioritizes his own happiness and fulfilment.
As the narrative unfolds, and the big realisation hits Karan, the plot turns. The contrasting worldviews between the father and son ultimately lead to a thought-provoking exploration of the nuances of life.
This film by Pranav Bhure delves deeper into the psychological impact experienced by the characters as they navigate the unexpected financial instabilities. The title “Suffer: A Journey Through Life” aptly captures the central theme. It explores the hardships faced by the family and encourages the audience to reflect on the importance of being more mindful and responsible about essentials like family bonding and financial management. This prompts the viewer to balance individual pursuits and familial obligations, highlighting the universal challenges inherent in the human experience.
