CROSSING BORDERS FILM REVIEW

 Crossing Borders is a 27 minute short film Directed by Saurav Rai in Nepali/Hindi, Shot on iPhone. 

Saurav Rai’s Crossing Borders ders is a quiet but powerful short film set near the harsh and beautiful Indo-Nepal border. The story follows three main characters—siblings Karma and Tashi, and a strong-willed woman named Vidya. All of them cross the border into India to smuggle basic goods like food and medicine for their families, who are struggling to survive.

The film shows stunning snowy landscapes and cloudy skies that add to its emotional tone. Each scene is filmed in perfect locations, which makes the story feel very real. The bond between the siblings is natural and touching. They share sweet, playful moments but also face serious risks together.

Through the eyes of these characters, the film shows how some people don’t even have access to basic needs. The siblings must risk crossing the border just to buy medicine and groceries. Vidya, on the other hand, tries to make a living by selling herbs and smuggling items like makeup and sarees. In one scene, when asked what will happen if she gets caught, she boldly says, “I am the wife of a martyr. What can happen?”

In an early scene, the sister steals some sweets, and her brother sees her but doesn’t stop her he also wanted them. However, when she tries to steal shoes, he stops her, worried that they could get caught and banned from returning to the market.

In the end, while returning to Nepal, Vidya forgets her purse, which has her ID card, at a bus stand. The siblings also get stuck there because they don’t have any ID. They help Vidya by bringing her purse back. When the army officer questions Vidya, the siblings pretend to be her children. The officer sees through the lie but smiles slightly and lets them go. She says, “So you found out today that you have children,” showing both kindness and understanding.

While the film has a few familiar or predictable moments, its honesty, emotion, and beautiful cinematography make it stand out. The final wide shot of the quiet mountains leaves a lasting impact. In just 27 minutes, Crossing Borders tells a touching story of struggle, courage, and human connection all shown through moving images and strong .