Shackles

LOGLINE: Amidst the relentless clasp of indentured servitude in 1905's South Africa, a naive young girl toiling on a sugar plantation discovers an unexpected refuge as she battles to reclaim her humanity in a merciless world devoid of compassion.

SYNOPSIS: Determined to emancipate her sister from the clutches of poverty, Latchmi arrives on the plantation deftly committed to paying for her sister's wedding back home, and grossly naive to the morally-depraved acts taking place under her nose. When a foot injury lands her in debt with her Masters, she is finally faced with the dilapidating world around her in its true form, leading to her defiance and painful unravelling. Just as all seems lost, we experience the blossoming of a truly beautiful and pure sisterhood between Latchmi and Pichammal - a phoenix from the ashes. Shackles takes the audience through Latchmi and Pichammal's journey of growth, empowerment, and self-discovery.

  • Aishwarya Mohan
    Writer
  • Aishwarya Mohan
    Director
  • Project Type:
    Short Script
  • Genres:
    Drama, Historical, Race, Social Justice
  • Number of Pages:
    16
  • Country of Origin:
    United Kingdom
  • Language:
    English, Tamil
  • First-time Screenwriter:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • HollyShorts Screenplay Competition 2023 - Oscar-Qualifying
    Los Angeles
    July 5, 2023
    Quarterfinalist & Official Selection - Best Female Short Screenplay
  • Buddha International Film Festival 2022
    Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
    August 14, 2022
    Award Winner: Best Short/ Script Screenplay
  • Madras International Film Award 2022
    Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
    September 8, 2022
    Award Winner: Best Short Screenplay
Writer Biography - Aishwarya Mohan

Aishwarya Mohan is an award-winning independent writer-director and trainee solicitor based in London, UK. Described as 'high-concept', 'unapologetic' and 'captivating', her powerful stories are known for their subtle cultural commentary, complex symbolism, and emotional character arcs. Her debut script, Shackles, has already won four 'Best Short Screenplay' awards at International festivals.

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Writer Statement

"Shackles" is a poignant exploration of human resilience and moral dilemmas set against the backdrop of colonial oppression. Through the intertwined journeys of Latchmi and Officer Foxton, and the evolving bond between Latchmi and Pichammal, the script delves into the complexities of personal desires and societal expectations. It navigates the intricate dance between power, likability, and the battle for self-identity. As characters grapple with their internal conflicts, the narrative sheds light on the dark corners of human nature, capturing the struggle to maintain integrity within a harsh system. "Shackles" is a captivating tale that unearths the multifaceted nature of human relationships and the unyielding quest for agency.