Obur (2024) – A Tale of Loss, Digital Dependency, and Unspoken Resilience

Obur (Short Film) Review | A Heartfelt Story of Loss & Digital Chaos, directed by Faraz Ali

Short films often have the challenging task of telling a complete and meaningful story within a limited runtime. Obur, directed by Faraz Ali, not only meets this challenge but also surpasses expectations with its emotional depth, stunning cinematography, and poignant storytelling. Shot entirely on an iPhone, the film has earned multiple Critics’ Choice Awards, including Best Director, Best Writing, and Best Short Movie, making it a remarkable achievement in the world of independent cinema.

In a scene from the film "Obur," suppu rests under a tree beside a warm campfire, accompanied by his horse, amidst a snowy and tranquil landscape of kashmir.

A Story That Transcends the Usual Kashmir Narrative

Unlike many films set in Kashmir that focus on the conflict, Obur shifts its gaze to something more intimate—an exploration of loss, digital dependency, and survival in a modernizing yet deeply traditional society. The film follows Suppu, a young boy who struggles to care for his bedridden mother, who suffers from painful bedsores. Financially constrained, he sells a smartphone gifted to him by a tourist to cover medical expenses. However, since the phone holds precious memories, he chooses to back up his data on cloud storage—an unfamiliar concept in his village.

What follows is a quietly chaotic pursuit of lost digital memories, bringing to light the stark digital divide between urban and rural communities. The film delicately handles how technology, while being a bridge to the world, can also become a source of pain when its complexities are not fully understood.

Suppu braves the snowy landscape on horseback, captured in a cinematic moment from the movie "Obur".

Minimalism, Realism, and the Beauty of Storytelling

Obur is a visually stunning piece despite being shot on an iPhone. The natural lighting, earthy tones, and subtle camera movements enhance the film’s immersive quality. Cinematographer Arun Varma makes remarkable use of close-ups, allowing viewers to witness the restrained yet palpable emotions on Suppu’s face.

The background score deserves special mention, as it subtly complements the film’s tone without overpowering the raw emotions portrayed on screen. Every scene feels organic, creating an atmosphere of quiet melancholy and resilience.

The Emotional Core – A Character Study of Suppu

In a snowy landscape, Suppu meticulously brushes a horse's coat, highlighting a serene moment from the movie "Obur."

Suppu’s character is fascinating in its simplicity. He is resourceful yet innocent, burdened yet hopeful. Even after his mother’s passing, he remains composed, carrying an air of unspoken contentment that is rare in films dealing with grief. His journey is not just about retrieving lost data but also about navigating a world where personal connections are slowly being replaced by digital footprints.

His relationship with technology is particularly compelling. While he understands the basics, the larger implications of cloud storage and digital permanence remain elusive. This creates a striking contrast with today’s hyper-digital world, where losing data is often seen as a minor inconvenience rather than a deeply personal loss.

A Thought-Provoking Experience

Suppu sits outside the closed "Hollywood Home Centre" in a quiet street, with a horse standing nearby, capturing a moment of stillness in the film "Obur."

At its core, Obur leaves viewers with a powerful message on gratitude and acceptance. It subtly asks—Are we too reliant on technology to preserve our memories? Are our digital footprints more valuable than our lived experiences? The film’s minimalist approach allows these questions to linger long after the credits roll.

Conclusion – A Must-Watch Short Film

Faraz Ali’s Obur is a masterpiece of subtle storytelling, proving that an impactful film does not need extravagant sets or elaborate production—just a deeply human story told with sincerity. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate films that challenge conventional narratives, evoke emotion, and leave a lasting impression.

The film is available for free on YouTube. Watch it and experience the quiet brilliance of Obur for yourself.