DOS BROS FORCE | Omeleto

Two siblings plan a birthday. In late-90s Los Angeles, the Suras are an immigrant family of four, struggling with money. Jay is a workaholic father who is never home, while the mother, Rekha, holds down the fort with love and devotion, raising the two children: introverted tween Vicky and spirited 8-year-old Isha. For her ninth birthday, Isha has only one wish -- she wants to play video games. But her parents won't pony up the $12 for the arcade, seeing games as frivolous and a waste of time and money. She and Vicky come up with a plan to raise money, but when that plan fails, Vicky does something out of character to make his sister happy -- and changes their lives forever with his act of love. Directed and written by Kalyan Sura, this warmly nostalgic, heartfelt short family dramedy takes a slightly different slant on the immigrant family story, capturing how future-focused parents intent on securing more stable lives for the family can be at odds with children who only want to enjoy and cherish the moment. From the opening scenes of children raptly playing games at an arcade, the narrative is keenly attuned to kids and their desire for fun, adventure and joy, which drives the efforts of Isha and her brother. But they also long for the presence and attention of their parents, who are often away working or busy caring for the home. The film's style is visually naturalistic, sun-soaked and weathered like a postcard from California, but there's a lightness in pacing, tone and musical flourishes that reflects the children's innately buoyant perspective and attitude towards life. The portrayal of the sibling relationship has a palpable joy and affection, with a more serious big brother looking out for his persistent but resourceful little sister, perhaps to make up for the absence of their father. The perceptive writing also captures moments of plaintive longing, as well as the parents' vastly different attitudes towards life. They want their children to succeed, and that looks a particular way in their minds -- but not in the minds of the kids. The charm of the narrative rests on the sibling bond, played by young performers Viravara Shetty as Vicky and Anisha Arlagadda as Isha. They have a believable rapport and sweetness between them, with Vicky often pretending to be put-upon by his sister. He also deeply loves her, often protecting her and trying to make her happy, and it is out of that love that he does something out of character to give her the birthday she wants, an action that has ripple effects on the family as a whole and makes them confront what truly matters. Based on personal experiences and memories, DOS BROS FORCE is a nostalgic, even sweet film, one that celebrates togetherness and family. While it's perceptive on how the pressures of immigrant life can affect the family, it also offers a broader perspective that anyone can relate to. It's not just enough to prepare children for life: giving them memories of happiness, fun and emotional connection are also valuable foundations for the future. But the small but important wishes and experiences are worthy in and of themselves, bringing joy and sunniness to the present moment -- and something they will cherish for years. The film is in itself an act of cherishing, and it should linger in viewers for its tenderness and warmth, much like the family memories they evoke. DOS BROS FORCE. Courtesy of Kalyan Sura at https://kalyansura.com.