This film is part of Free
Khwaaish
Khwaaish or 'Desire' is an Indian short film that glimpses into the life of one man’s longing to find a same-sex companion, in a city that refuses to accept LGBTQIA+ people.
Overview
Set in the busy streets of Mumbai, our young protagonist ventures out in pursuit of love where he meets an interesting guy he feels attracted to. After they exchange conversation their affection for one another is clear and soon develops into a deeper connection as they exchange feelings of intimacy. But in the end a realisation that this was just a dream comes shattering down like a glass windowpane before our protagonist decides to move on with his life.
Khwaaish is presented as part of Too Desi Too Queer, a selection of LGBTIQ+ short films curated by Bagri Foundation London Indian Film Festival.
Related
Little Elephant Little Elephant
Animation & Artists Moving Image 2015 5 mins
A British Indian woman and her father discuss their opposing views on family and sexuality in this beautifully moving, visually striking 2D animated short film.
Wajood Wajood
Romance 2017 12 mins
A young trans woman embarks on a poignant quest for love after falling for a rickshaw driver.
Chariot Riders Chariot Riders
Animation & Artists Moving Image 2015 5 mins
Beautifully animated short film about a boy's feelings of love for another boy – his best friend.
Wig Wig
Drama 2019 26 mins
Arkita believes herself to be be modern, liberal and independent. An unprecedented encounter with a transgender sex worker questions her beliefs.
Vaidya Vaidya
Drama 2021 23 mins
Kabir meets the mysterious Vaidya on the beach while on holiday in Goa, in this short film which premiered at the London Indian Film Festival 2021.
The Protector [Muhafiz] The Protector [Muhafiz]
Drama 2021 18 mins
Against a backdrop of sectarian violence, can a gay Hindu man find the courage to help a Muslim?
Halfway Halfway
Drama 2023 9 mins
Two lovers searching for each other on a beach try to work out some uncomfortable truths over the phone.
I'll Tell You When I'm Ready I'll Tell You When I'm Ready
2024 13 mins
I'll Tell You When I'm Ready follows the personal story of jaye simpson
Cab Ride Cab Ride
2023 12 mins
Two queer lovers bolt out of a house party, into a waiting cab where they have one eventful journey to figure out whether they are truly a match.
Little One Little One
Animation & Artists Moving Image 2023 9 mins
Unsure of how to raise a child, a pregnant woman seeks guidance from her gay dads. Her dad reflects on their family’s history, captured on an old camcorder.
The First Kiss The First Kiss
Drama 2023 15 mins
Today is a special day for Andi – he’s going to Madrid for a date with a boy he met online.
Compton's '22 Compton's '22
Drama 2023 17 mins
An intergenerational discussion about the legendary riot that predates Stonewall.