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Directed and written by Raman Irman, the short film “Visualization” begins with a stark shot of what appears to be a hotel corridor. The camera zooms out to reveal multiple doors, accompanied by ominously dramatic music reminiscent of a horror movie intro. However, the story is an abstract tale depicting an artist’s struggle to express their individuality while being manipulated by powerful individuals.
Clocking in at around eleven minutes, the first half of the film may leave viewers uncertain about its direction. Nevertheless, the second half escalates the narrative, offering viewers ample food for thought. Raman Irman portrays a tormented artist who initially stares at a blank canvas and eventually begins painting with bare hands. Additionally, Raman takes on the dual role of a patient in a mental health facility, raising the question of whether the artist is a figment of his own imagination or if he envisions himself as a prisoner within a corrupt system. Or he could be both – an artist persecuted for his art. This intriguing conundrum leaves the answer to the viewer’s interpretation of the story.
Mojo Mona plays a psychiatrist, in-charge of the fate of her patients, with a creepy smile that’s quite unsettling. Is she driving her patients to madness, or is she simply a metaphorical representation of a dictator controlling those under them through sinister means? She also portrays a performing artist in black robes, her eyes glistening with grief as close up shots focus on her stricken face. Perhaps she too was humane, before she was beaten by the system into becoming an oppressor?
With minimal dialogue and several quick montage like shots, “Visualization” leaves audiences with a myriad of questions, all of which can be answered depending on one’s chosen perspective on the story. The background score effectively maintains a heightened sense of suspense and drama throughout, leading to a visceral and tragic climax. However, the ending was a little too literal in its imagery, versus the absurd nature of proceedings for most of the runtime.
Watch the trailer below.