We go about our daily lives heavily drowned in digital clutter. The world is noisier than ever before. With no definite measures to regulate neither social media nor AI, the distraction is destructive and morbidly addictive.
Carl Sagan famously said that we are drifting towards a dumbing down of society where people are not encouraged to think critically, to question or to explore.
Sagan’s worst fears have materialised. The news of a tiktoker who tried her hand at reviewing a book, but discovered it had too many words per page, shook me to the core of my being. This astonishing critique validates Sagan’s concerns about a society abandoning critical thinking and intellectual exploration.
In the stillness of my living room, with nary a sound except the gentle patter of raindrops outside the window, a single tap on my screen threatens to disrupt the peace, plunging me into the cacophony of our tech-saturated world.
In an era where technology, which has transformed our planet into a cacophonous sphere, Satyajit Ray’s ‘Parable of Two’ stands as a poignant reminder of the power of silence. Amidst the relentless barrage of words, images, and noise, this short film dared to speak volumes without uttering a single dialogue.
In an era where technology, which has transformed our planet into a cacophonous sphere, Satyajit Ray’s ‘Parable of Two’ stands as a poignant reminder of the power of silence. Amidst the relentless barrage of words, images, and noise, this short film dared to speak volumes without uttering a single dialogue.
The film quietly observes the stark contrast between their lives, environments, and experiences. Through subtle gestures and expressive visuals, Ray Saheb masterfully conveys the complexities of social disparity and the human condition.
Ray Saheb’s masterful storytelling weaves a narrative that transcends language barriers, conveying profound truths through evocative visuals and deliberate pacing. As the world outside drowns in the din of meaningless words, ‘Parable of Two’ presents a refreshing respite, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in contemplative silence.
Through its thought-provoking imagery, the film poses essential questions about human existence, isolation, and connection. Ray Saheb’s direction coaxes the audience to fill the silence with their own reflections, fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place within the chaos.
Another plausible interpretation of this singularly beautiful short film is its subtle way of highlighting the dichotomy between two disparate worlds, metaphorically representing the class divide. Through a wordless narrative, Ray Saheb masterfully conveys the inherent tensions and conflicts between the affluent and the impoverished.
The film’s simplistic yet powerful imagery serves as a subliminal commentary on the stark contrasts between the haves and have-nots.
Ray’s ‘Two’ is a thought-provoking allegory, inviting viewers to reflect on the profound consequences of social and economic disparities. By eschewing dialogue, Ray Saheb allows the haunting visuals to speak louder than word underscoring the urgent need for empathy and understanding.
‘Parable of Two’ is a testament to Ray Saheb’s innovative storytelling and his willingness to challenge conventions. This film is a whispered lesson in the beauty of restraint, reminding us that sometimes the most profound statements are those left unspoken. Another noteworthy point is that this is a lesser-known work by Ray Saheb. Perhaps it was way ahead of its time and the subliminal message was meant to be for the audience of tomorrow ie, us.
Ray Saheb made this short film for the Iranian magazine ‘Harper’s Bazaar’ and UNESCO, as part of a series of short films promoting global understanding and cultural exchange. The film was intended for an international audience, aiming to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers.
Ray Saheb’s objective was to create a universal language, using visual storytelling to convey a powerful message about human connection and social disparity. By avoiding dialogue, he ensured the film’s themes would resonate with viewers from diverse backgrounds.
‘Two’ was also screened at various international film festivals, furthering its global reach and impact.
Without relying on dialogue, ‘Two’ invites viewers to reflect on the consequences of economic inequality and the boundaries that separate us.
Recommendation: If you’re seeking a cinematic experience that will transport you beyond the distraction sickness of modern life, ‘Parable of Two’ is essential viewing. This 12 minute long black and white masterpiece is easily Google-able and can also be watched on YouTube.
The writer is a filmmaker based in UK.
