Filmmakers Imtiaz Ali and Anurag Kashyap have reunited as presenters of the coming-of-age short film Bobby Beauty Parlour. Timed to coincide with Friendship Week, the film will premiere on the Oh Short Flips YouTube channel at midnight on August 6.
Directed by Shashwat Dwivedi, Bobby Beauty Parlour follows childhood friends Eelu and Manu as they spend one final afternoon together before their lives take them in different directions.
Much of the story unfolds inside a neighbourhood beauty parlour. As Eelu and Manu drink, sleep, argue and spend time together, they attempt to hold on to a friendship that is approaching an important turning point. The film explores adolescence, changing relationships and the uncertainty that accompanies growing up.
The project also brings Imtiaz and Anurag together in a creative capacity after years of friendship. Their association dates back to their university days in Delhi. Anurag has been curating content for the Oh Short Flips channel and has also been involved in bringing Bobby Beauty Parlour to audiences.
Imtiaz described the film’s appeal as lying in the small moments that quietly remain with people and shape their character. Watching it reminded him of his hometown, his adolescent decisions and the friendships he continued to carry with him.
Anurag called the film a heartfelt story about friendship, aspirations and growing up. He also praised director Shashwat Dwivedi’s development as a filmmaker, noting that Shashwat had started his career with him.
The short has been produced by Janhavi Asthana, Ranjan Singh and Anurag Kashyap. Janhavi has also co-written the film and worked as its cinematographer. The cast includes Adrija Sinha, Parul Rana, Saksham Raj and Preeti Kochar.
Before its online release, Bobby Beauty Parlour travelled to film festivals in different parts of the world. Producer Ranjan Singh described it as a warm story about friendship, life and its realities, making Friendship Week an appropriate time for its wider release.
Built around nostalgia, friendship and the transition into adulthood, Bobby Beauty Parlour will be available exclusively on the Oh Short Flips YouTube channel from August 6.