Unmarried Couples Not Allowed

Unmarried Couples Not Allowed (written, directed and produced by Samman Roy) follows a young couple full of excitement and apprehension as they meet and plan to share their first night in a hotel together. Amongst travel, lies to family and an overbearing fear of exposure, their unmarried status and differing religious beliefs make their quest for privacy and intimacy a hard task.

When the two arrive at their luxury hotel, organised and booked by Ashish (played by Soumya Majumdar), their ID’s, which state Ashish’s Hindu name and Surekha’s (Keye Chakraborty) Muslim name, are declined. This results in disagreement and disappointment for both parties as they desperately try to find somewhere to stay whilst they come to terms with their highly anticipated, romantic plans falling through.

The tension grows for both the characters and the short film’s audience as the couple, who were previously smiley and eager, now bicker as they wander the streets in hopes of finding a room. When they are met with constant decline and judgement, the film’s message becomes strong and clear. The film comments on the issue of an Indian societal rule affecting the plans of two adults in a consenting and loving partnership seeking privacy.

When the couple realise their lack of luck, they change their approach. They lie to a local brothel landlord about their relationship status by telling her they are indeed married. With some convincing, they are soon put into a dark, empty room with just a mat on the floor to sleep on. Despite their reluctance, the two make do, relieved to at least be together under a roof.

After their arrival, wholesome amendments and apologies follow, but their smiles do not last long. During the joyful connection of the protagonists in a kiss, the couple are met with supernatural disturbances. They shelter during an explosion of loud noises; objects are thrown around the room and red-eyed spirits who are prepared to harm them arrive.

The film’s production is tactical. The use of comedy and horror aspects increases audience engagement and ensures viewers stay immersed in the narrative, which aims to spotlight uncomfortable truths that are apparent in real-life experiences. Instead of overwhelming audiences with a preaching attitude about this resonant issue, the humour and thrill carve an entertaining film with key takeaways present and understandable throughout.

The performance of Soumya Majumdar is loud, chaotic and witty, offering comedy relief to an upsetting reality. His performance also reinforces the dissatisfaction of others facing harsh judgement, forced to love in the dark. The music and sound effects are powerful, adding additional satirical and eerie elements throughout the running time of just under thirty minutes.

Overall, the film has significant production value and a unique narrative that is compelling and impactful, initiating wider thought from viewers about the film’s message through the use of strong characters and an easily comprehensible storyline that viewers can grasp immediately.