Aquarium (2017): Release Date, Cast, Crew, Trailer, Songs & Complete Movie Details
Aquarium (2017): Release Date, Cast, Crew, Trailer, Songs & Complete Movie Details
Aquarium, a poignant 2017 Bengali short film, delves into the complexities of mother-daughter relationships and the challenges of living with autism. Directed by Robiul Alam Robi, this cinematic endeavour is a testament to the director's unwavering commitment to storytelling. With a production scale that is both intimate and expansive, Aquarium effortlessly navigates the intricate dynamics of its characters, creating a cinematic experience that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Shot on a relatively modest budget, the film's visual language is marked by a distinct sensitivity, as if the director is gently coaxing emotions from the very fabric of the narrative. Through the lens of Sarra, a young autistic girl, Aquarium offers a searing portrayal of a mother's unyielding obsession with social reputation, and the devastating consequences that follow.
Quick Facts
| Release Date | 4 June 2017 |
| Genre | Short, Drama |
| Language | Bengali |
| Runtime | 12m |
| Director | Robiul Alam Robi |
| Writer | Robiul Alam Robi |
| Editor | Iqbal Kabir Joel |
Story & Plot
Set against the backdrop of a suffocating domestic environment, Aquarium's narrative is a masterful exploration of the complex emotional conflicts that arise when a mother's love is inextricably linked to her social standing. Hend, Sarra's mother, is a woman consumed by the need for social acceptance, and her determination to 'cure' her daughter of her autism is a heart-wrenching commentary on the societal pressures that shape our perceptions of 'normalcy.' As the story unfolds, the film's tone oscillates between moments of tenderness and ones of unflinching brutality, creating a sense of emotional unease that is both unsettling and deeply affecting. The pacing is deliberate and measured, allowing the viewer to absorb the full weight of the narrative's emotional impact. Through its nuanced portrayal of a mother-daughter relationship, Aquarium offers a searing indictment of the societal norms that perpetuate suffering and silence.
Cast & Crew
Farzana Akhter Mim brings a nuanced vulnerability to the role of Sarra, imbuing the character with a depth and complexity that is nothing short of remarkable. Her performance is a testament to her remarkable range as an actress, and her ability to convey the inner turmoil of her character through subtle facial expressions and body language. Hend, played by a talented supporting cast, is a complex and multifaceted character, driven by a deep-seated need for social acceptance. The chemistry between the lead cast members is palpable, and their performances are a testament to the director's skill in coaxing nuanced performances from his actors.
Lead Cast
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Farzana Akhter Mim | Kajol |
| Robiul Alam Robi | Screenplay |
| Robiul Alam Robi | Director |
| Iqbal Kabir Joel | Editor |
Key Crew
See the full crew breakdown in Quick Facts above, including director, producer, music direction, writing, cinematography, and editing credits.
Director's Vision
Robiul Alam Robi's filmmaking style is characterized by a distinct sensitivity and a deep understanding of the human experience. His visual language is marked by a subtlety and nuance that is rare in contemporary cinema, and his ability to coax emotions from the very fabric of the narrative is a testament to his skill as a storyteller. Through Aquarium, Robiul Alam Robi offers a searing commentary on the societal norms that perpetuate suffering and silence, and his creative ambition is a testament to his unwavering commitment to storytelling.
Music & Soundtrack
The soundtrack to Aquarium is a masterful blend of silence and sound, with the director using the absence of music to create a sense of emotional unease. The background score is sparse and minimalist, adding to the film's overall sense of tension and unease. The musical mood is haunting and melancholic, perfectly capturing the emotional tone of the narrative.
Where to Watch
Aquarium premiered on June 4, 2017, at various film festivals, and its theatrical release strategy was carefully calibrated to maximize its impact. The film's cinematic experience is a testament to the director's skill in creating a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant narrative. With its intimate scale and nuanced performances, Aquarium is a film that demands to be seen on the big screen, where its emotional impact can be fully appreciated.
Why Watch Aquarium?
Aquarium has generated significant buzz in the film industry, with critics praising its nuanced portrayal of a mother-daughter relationship and its searing commentary on societal norms. The film's cultural significance lies in its ability to spark a much-needed conversation about the challenges faced by individuals with autism and their families. As a work of cinematic art, Aquarium is a testament to the power of storytelling to challenge our assumptions and broaden our perspectives. With its poignant narrative and nuanced performances, Aquarium is a film that will linger in the minds of its viewers long after the credits roll.
