TV & Film | Entertainment News
Sheer Qorma is a popular South Asian decadent dessert made with milk and dates. Directed and written by Faraz Ari Ansari, the film displays a tender portrayal of the intersection between beliefs and identity, becoming the ultimate symbol of acceptance.
The film is a gentle narrative that explores the dichotomy between family and religion and gender and sexuality. We journey with Saira (played by Divya Dutta), who identifies as non-binary, as they attempt to navigate a family gathering with their estranged mother.
Saira sees their mother makes an effort to accommodate their brother’s significant other all while barely speaking to Saira themself and their partner of 10 years, Sitara. The scenes with mother and child are laced with thick tension as the two attempt to stand firmly in their own beliefs.
Tension reaches a tipping point at the dinner table until Saira and their partner leaves abruptly, leaving the air emotionally charged. In the wake of their departure, Saira’s brother confronts their mother.
It isn’t until Ammi, (Saira’s mother) has a heartfelt conversation with the family’s steward surrounding the happiness of their children that Ammi realizes that she must attempt to bridge the gap between herself and her child.
“Love is not a sin,” is the phrase echoed between lovers and as an olive branch between parent and child.
Sheer Qorma is a beautifully sensitive tale of gentle languishment and the yearning for acceptance that may be felt by queer children. It tells us that regardless of time and distance, for some queer individuals, the acceptance of their identity from family is still of importance; and that the lack thereof is as equally shrouded in heart ache.
Sheer Qorma is as stirring as it is clement in its depiction of a very sensitive topic within the queer community. This short film is one that will certainly tug on the heart strings of the audience in a way that will be relatable to all.