I just thought I'd comment on this seeing as no one else has. I came across it unwittingly after noticing it among the extra features on the 'In Custody' DVD. It's a short film about an unnamed outcaste boy who lives on Mumbai's Juhu beach and spends his days scavenging for food for himself and his pet monkey, relating his experiences to the beach's resident Gandhi statue. He observes Mumbai's middle-class citizens as they play sports, sunbathe and hold community gatherings at the Gandhi statue. There's some wry and tender humour, such as when the boy gets his monkey to steal a sunbathing woman's sunscreen and applies it to the monkey in the hope that it will make it as attractive as the well-fed woman. Then there are shots of the Gandhi statue, which seems to convey different impressions depending on the circumstances under which it is viewed. One time it might be expressing bewilderment at the worshipping crowds; another time it might be avuncular compassion towards the boy.
All in all it's a minor film, not exactly worth seeking out for the casual viewer, but pleasant enough to watch if you happen to come across it.
All in all it's a minor film, not exactly worth seeking out for the casual viewer, but pleasant enough to watch if you happen to come across it.
