Thoughts on Aditya Kriplani's Not Today (2021)

Director: Aditya Kriplani

Cast: Rucha Inamdar, Harsh Chhaya, Vibhawari Deshpande

"Even in that state of mind, one should make a call."

Have you ever felt like you're a burden to your loved ones? Have you questioned your existence, feeling as though your presence means nothing to the world? Has it ever occurred to you that you might be responsible for someone's death — someone who meant more than life to you? And does that heaviness in your heart weigh you down, leaving you feeling trapped in a black hole, fighting for every breath? You may find yourself seeking someone's hand to pull you out from that deep darkness, though you hesitate to ask for help, still clinging to a hidden ray of hope.

"Not Today" follows the journey of Aliyah as she grapples with past trauma while assisting an old man. In her early twenties, Aliyah joins a suicide prevention centre, and on her first day, she receives a call that throws her into a quest to search for her sense of purpose. Through a series of conversations, we become familiar with the main characters, as they share their experiences and reflect on their childhood traumas, life struggles, and grief.

This film proves that with a solid script, even minimal resources can do wonders. The camera work is impressive. It conveys the protagonist's state of mind effectively through metaphors. For instance, a scene where Aliyah sits between two roads, with cars passing back and forth, mirrors the train of thoughts racing through her mind.

The casting is apt, and the meaningful silences are skillfully placed. Aliyah's vulnerability and the old man's ‘fakiri’ enhance the story profoundly. The editor deserves praise separately. Plus, an impactful sound design, esp. in the last soundless scene. Some moments can trigger intense emotions. As a viewer, I could feel the characters' turmoil.

Despite not directly depicting any suicide, the film explores the human psyche in such situations. It talks about mental health without being preachy. Filmed primarily during late evening hours, the camera captures the shadows on the actors' faces, amplifying the emotional intensity of their performances only.

"Not Today" is an important film that deserves a broad audience. I was deeply moved during the second half of the movie. This film reminds us to find light amid the darkness. A poem by Charles Bukowski resonates closely with the film –

your life is your life

don’t let it be clubbed into dank submission.

be on the watch.

there are ways out.

there is a light somewhere.

it may not be much light but

it beats the darkness.be on the watch.

the gods will offer you chances.

know them.

take them.

you can’t beat death but

you can beat death in life, sometimes.

and the more often you learn to do it,

the more light there will be.

your life is your life.

know it while you have it.

you are marvelous

the gods wait to delight

in you.