Gender inequality is one of the gravest issues that our society faces these days. Mostly, women become its prey. Blue Pencil, a 19-minute short film directed by Aarathy and written by her husband Mahesh Chandran, deals with this gap. Media persons, they have set the story in a newspaper office where a person comes for a news correction. “The person presents a subject, which further leads to a discussion and then an issue in the office,” says Mahesh. “The film narrates the emotional connect between two persons. At the same time, it deals with gender issues.”
A major chunk of Blue Pencil was filmed inside an office, which Mahesh recalls was a challenge as scope for experimentation was limited. However, he adds that they have treated the subject in a way to avoid the monotony of space. “One could find elements of magical realism in it,” he says. Ask him about choosing fiction, he says, “Then only audience will notice. We are trying to project a real issue through fiction.”
The cast include Rajesh Sharma, Meera Nair, Amal Rajdeve and Krishnan Balakrishnan. Cinematography is handled by Vipin Chandran, while music is scored by Rohith L.T. and Aswin Johnson, composers of Nayanthara-starrer Kolaiyuthir Kaalam. Editing is by Shafeekhan.
Mahesh says the script is written keeping gender equality in mind. “Each character has a space. However, it should not be measured merely in terms of screen space, but should be evaluated considering the depth of portrayal too,” he says. And, the title Blue Pencil symbolises correction. “Back in those days, editors used blue pencils to mark corrections during proof reading. So, it says, there are certain notions to be corrected,” explains Mahesh.
Premiere of Blue Pencil will take place at the International Documentary and Short film Festival (IDSFFK) that is taking place in Thiruvananthapuram on June 24. The screening will start at Sree theatre at 12.15 pm.
