"Kalapati" Review: Uncaged and Enraged

What goes on inside the mind of an abuse victim when she's finally uncaged? This was the question that was artistically answered by the short film "Kalapati", starring Sunshine Joy Magno and Jehza Mae Huelar, and directed by EJ Fernandez. The short film takes place during a taxi ride where the Battered Wife (Magno) expresses her jealousy and rage to the Prostitute (Huelar).

I watched this short film with no idea what to expect, no logline or any synopsis as to what would happen. I'm glad that I didn't, because figuring out the story for myself was one of the experiences I appreciated. That can only mean that the storytelling was clear and effective. But before we get to the technical criticism, I would have to talk about this film's artistic value first.

The lesson you can pick up from this film is about embracing the free, uncaged bird you have become. Trauma and abuse shape us, but does not define us.

This short screams "independent film", which can be tricky if not done right. However, this short benefits from it because it creates that raw atmosphere which I enjoyed. Indie shorts enthusiasts would have to agree with this one when I say that this short was entertaining, in a sense that it keeps your mind busy putting story pieces together; the same entertainment you would get from completing a jigsaw puzzle.

I would have to lie if I say that there's something educational in this film, but there's none. The only thing that's close to being a lesson is the bit about conquering your inner demons (or stopping your enraged monologue about revenge by killing your abuser) and embracing the free, uncaged bird you have become. Trauma and abuse shape us, but does not define us.

The storytelling stands out from all the aspects of this short film, and that's all that matters.

The story and storytelling was, no doubt, the best feature of this film. The approach was grounded, gritty, realistic, and it fits the tone. There were some parts of the film which I find the cropping of the frame a little bit distracting, but that's just me nitpicking. These kinds of "flaws" are understandable though, (sometimes even necessary) in these types of film. If there's one thing in this film that I'd love to improve on, it's the delivery/performance of the actresses. They got the job done, but I wish their delivery would've been more compelling. But overall, I think that the storytelling stands out from all the aspects of this short film, and that's all that matters.