In life, opposites often find themselves drawn to one another, forming bonds that challenge convention yet make perfect sense in their own unique way. DENIAL, the latest short film written and produced by Simmer Bhatia and directed by Arshad Siddiqui, explores this very dynamic between two unlikely lovers. The film follows the journey of Aditi, a career-driven corporate professional, and Siddharth, a free-spirited creative artist. Although their worlds are poles apart, their hearts find a way to beat in sync—until reality takes a shocking turn.

Set against the backdrop of a cozy Airbnb, chosen for its nostalgic connection to Siddharth’s uncle, the film begins as a lighthearted romantic gesture. Siddharth has carefully planned a heartfelt surprise for Aditi, expecting the evening to be a tender celebration of their relationship. However, as the night progresses, the couple’s differing perspectives on life, love, and ambition begin to surface, leading to an emotional unraveling that neither of them saw coming. What begins as an idyllic evening soon transforms into a moment of truth, exposing the fragility of their relationship. DENIAL beautifully captures the tension between love and denial—forcing its characters to confront the realities they have long ignored.

The unexpected twist that concludes the story not only leaves a lasting impression on the viewer but also offers a deep and meaningful commentary on relationships. It challenges audiences to think about the ways in which we sometimes deny our truths until life forces us to confront them.

A Stellar Cast & Crew Bringing DENIAL to Life:

The magic of DENIAL wouldn’t be possible without its talented cast and crew. Leading the cast is Sharad Malhotra, delivering a heartfelt performance as Siddharth, the creative lover whose romantic gesture becomes the catalyst for the story’s emotional turn. He is joined by an ensemble cast that includes:

• Rahul Choudhary
• Bob Brahmbhatt
• Priyanka Khera
• Shreya Malhotra

With Simmer Bhatia at the helm as both the writer and producer, and Arshad Siddiqui providing masterful direction, the film comes together as a powerful and moving piece of storytelling. The creative synergy between the cast and crew brings authenticity to the film’s characters, making the audience feel every emotional beat.

A Message from the Maker of DENIAL:

In the words of Simmer Bhatia, the creator behind this heartfelt story:
“Sometimes you are caught between the real and the superficial… till REALITY STRIKES AT YOU!”
This quote encapsulates the essence of DENIAL—the struggle between what we want to believe and the truths we avoid until we’re forced to face them head-on. It is a story that mirrors the lives of many, especially in a fast-paced world where we often ignore our inner voices to fit into the expectations around us.

DPIFF: A Platform for Excellence in Filmmaking

DENIAL was proudly released by the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF) on their official YouTube channel, further amplifying the film’s reach. DPIFF, recognized as one of India’s most prestigious platforms for celebrating cinematic brilliance, offers filmmakers and artists an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their work on a global stage.

DPIFF is more than just an award ceremony; it is a testament to India’s rich history in film, honoring the vision of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema. Through DPIFF, filmmakers like Simmer Bhatia gain access to an extensive network of industry professionals, fans, and media, ensuring their artistic creations are celebrated far and wide.

Why Watch DENIAL?

• A Relatable Story: DENIAL resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the tension between following their dreams and maintaining their relationships. It highlights the complexities of modern love, where ambition, emotions, and reality collide.
• A Twisting Tale: The film’s narrative takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, with a surprising yet relatable twist that will leave a lasting impact.
• Outstanding Performances: The stellar cast, led by Sharad Malhotra, brings depth and nuance to their characters, making every moment on screen feel authentic and heartfelt.

Join the Conversation on YouTube!

By premiering DENIAL on the DPIFF YouTube channel, the film is now accessible to a wide audience, allowing movie enthusiasts from all over the world to experience its powerful message. Be part of this journey and watch the film now. Join the conversation in the comments section and let us know how the film impacted you!

Watch DENIAL Here: DENIAL | Short Film | DPIFF Official YouTube Channel

DPIFF continues to serve as a beacon of excellence in the world of filmmaking, offering creators the chance to have their work celebrated on a platform that values artistic expression. With each new release, DPIFF cements its place as a prestigious institution that not only honors the legacy of Dadasaheb Phalke but also fosters the growth of the Indian film industry.

Stay tuned for more amazing short films and cinematic experiences by subscribing to DPIFF’s YouTube channel!