Magan's Fare

Magan’s Fare (2025) is a drama short film with the majority of it being set in the protagonist Magan’s car. The narrative, as you may expect, follows taxi driver Magan (played by Barkhad Adbi) and a journey he has with a lonely elderly woman named Jorani (played by Alexis Rhee). Jorani has lost her place at her nursing home; she mourns the house she nurtured and the people she used to live there with who have passed.

After refusing to leave Magan’s car, he takes her under his wing and together they continue his day of work and learn more about each other. She supports him when he has a health issue and he gives an open ear to her trauma. Towards the end, after suggesting a hospital visit, Magan takes her to his home, the ultimate heartwarming and satisfying ending.

This film was a beautiful embodiment of human connection and the gratitude we should all feel for our loved ones. The popular cast helped to bring the characters to life and their interactions throughout were exceptionally delightful to watch.

I originally thought the constant phone calls protagonist Magan received from his Mum and wife were unnecessary and I failed to see their significance. This was until it dawned on me that here is someone frustrated by their nagging family, versus a woman who has no one to annoy them because she has no one at all. I hope audiences can have the same revelation and ponder what they may take for granted in their own lives.

Despite this film being of a high production value, following a well-rounded story with strong performances, some more character background would have heightened the emotional elements. We do not truly see the pain of Jorani, nor do we see her family through photographs or memories. When she enters her old home and discusses the garden she grew, we do not see this garden. I think some flashbacks or even sound effects may help viewers reminisce about the character’s past alongside her. Then we will empathise more after we understand what she is missing.

Magan’s character contains small details that do not come to fruition. He mentions studying for an exam and we also learn he is diabetic, but these traits do not seem to have any relevance. When his blood sugar is low, Jorani helps him and this illustrates their increased connection. This could have been represented in other ways, however.

As a protagonist, Magan is a kind character who can hopefully inspire audiences to be as giving. He is constantly pondering how far he should go to help someone before deciding that Jorani deserves a warm place to sleep tonight. He also represents a valuable lesson that he (and hopefully the audience) learns: the treatment of older people is sometimes flawed and needs to be reviewed.