Exploring 'Abracadabra': A Unique Short Film from the 76th Berlin International Film Festival

Overview of the Film Festival

The 76th Berlin International Film Festival kicked off on February 12 and wrapped up on February 22, showcasing a variety of films. Among the notable premieres was 'Abracadabra,' a short film directed by Amay Mehrishi, a recent graduate of the London Film School. This film was featured in the Generation Kplus 2026 competition at the Berlinale. Let's delve into the details of 'Abracadabra'!

Film Synopsis

Plot Summary

'Abracadabra' tells the story of a 12-year-old boy named Agastya during his bus ride home from school. When his best friend opts to sit elsewhere, Agastya finds himself alone, leading to a whirlwind of emotions including guilt, longing, and a touch of magic. The narrative is crafted through the perspective of children, highlighting how they perceive the world and manage feelings of guilt, love, and desire.

Filming Location

Entirely Shot Inside a Bus

One of the film's unique features is that it was filmed entirely within a bus. The director aimed to create an intimate and observational experience, showcasing how a simple daily routine can unfold numerous stories.

Personal Inspiration

Based on Real-Life Experiences

The inspiration for 'Abracadabra' stems from Amay's own childhood memories. While brainstorming ideas for his graduation project, he recalled a time when he traveled alone on a school bus. This memory of a young boy accompanied by a driver and an attendant became the foundation for the film's narrative.

Casting Non-Actors

Featuring 30 Non-Professional Actors

The film features 30 children who are not professional actors. Prior to filming, the director organized engaging workshops with the kids and his heads of departments to prepare them for their roles. A bus was specially designed with chairs for the shooting of this film.