SYNOPSIS
Divya, an 18-year-old Indian immigrant student, stands at the precipice of a new chapter in her life: leaving for university. Yearning for one final day in the city with her boyfriend, she hopes to savor these precious moments before their inevitable breakup. However, Divya’s experiences as an immigrant have instilled in her a fierce determination and an unyielding spirit that often clash with society’s expectations. The narrative unfolds over a single day as Divya grapples with conflicts that arise from her ultra-conservative father, whose traditional beliefs collide with her aspirations and desires. Simultaneously, she navigates the complexities of her passionate relationship with her boyfriend, coming to terms with the impending end of their time together. Yet, as fate would have it, Divya’s path intersects with that of a bigoted stranger, leading to a catastrophic turn of events. Through the lens of this compelling story, we explore themes of identity, resilience, and the urgent need to challenge societal prejudices. Although our protagonist is brown, this is not just a desi story. Divya’s journey resonates with anyone who has ever felt marginalized or trapped by others’ expectations. It serves as a poignant reminder that the power to break barriers lies within us all.
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
Throughout my journey as an Indian immigrant pursuing a career in filmmaking, I have consistently found myself restricted within the confines of others’ expectations. However, I possess an innate aversion to being boxed in, and this rebellious spirit has been ingrained in me since childhood. Just ask my parents; they can attest to my relentless pursuit of individuality. But beneath the humor lies a deeper truth—my resistance to expectations is inspired by the women in my life. My mother, my aunt, and countless other strong-willed women have continuously defied societal norms and shattered the limitations placed upon them. The very idea of being outspoken amplifies both my admiration for their courage and my concern for their well-being. What happens when an unstoppable force collides with an immovable wall? This central conflict lies at the heart of The Girl Who Could Fly. Drawing from the experiences that have unfolded before my eyes, this extraordinary film captures a single day in the life of its protagonist. Each moment and each emotion represents an adaptation of the struggles and triumphs I have witnessed firsthand. The Girl Who Could Fly is an ode to the women who have shaped my perspective, illuminating their journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Through this film, I aim to challenge the status quo, ignite conversations, and inspire change. It is a powerful exploration of the indomitable spirit that resides within us all, urging us to question the boundaries imposed upon us by society and ourselves. By bringing these stories to life, I seek to uplift voices that have long been silenced and provide a platform for narratives that demand to be heard.