Watch The Bestowal

The Bestowal, a 2018 independent drama film directed by Gary Mairs, tells the heart-wrenching story of a young woman named Naina (Sharmita Bhattacharya) who is struggling to reclaim her sense of purpose after suffering a great loss. Naina is a talented Indian classical dancer living in Los Angeles, who is haunted by the death of her father and is unable to find solace in her art.

The film opens with a mesmerizing dance performance by Naina that showcases her grace and skill, but as soon as the music stops, we see the anguish and sorrow that she carries deep within her. Her grief feels almost palpable, and we can't help but feel sympathy for her as we watch her struggle to cope with her loss.

As she tries to navigate life without her father, Naina also faces another challenge – the pressure to conform to the expectations of her family and community. Her mother wants her to give up dancing and marry a wealthy man, while her mentor and father figure (Sam Brittan) urges her to keep pursuing her dream, even if it means going against tradition and defying societal norms.

The Bestowal succeeds in capturing the complex interplay between tradition and individuality that is so common in immigrant families. Naina's struggle to balance her identity as an artist with her cultural identity feels especially relevant given the current political climate.

The cinematography of the film is striking, with vivid, saturated colors that pop on screen. The use of light and shadow is also impressive, creating a moody and almost dreamlike aesthetic that draws the viewer into Naina's world. The film's soundtrack, composed by Raj Rishi, is another highlight, with haunting melodies that perfectly capture the film's emotional resonance.

All in all, The Bestowal is a beautifully-crafted film that explores themes of grief, tradition, and identity in a poignant and thought-provoking way. While it may not be a feel-good movie, it is one that sticks with you long after the credits have rolled. It's a testament to the power of cinema to explore the human condition with nuance and sensitivity, and is well worth watching for anyone who appreciates good filmmaking.