Nov. 01, 2017|India|52 Min.|n/A
Genre: Adventure;Bangla;Documentary;Drama;Reality
Description: “If You Dare Desire,” directed by Debalina Majumder, offers an alternate narrative to the tragic story of Swapna and Sucheta, two women from Nandigram who took their own lives in February 2011 due to societal rejection of their relationship. Instead of their heartbreaking end, the film imagines a hopeful path where they escape their village to live together.
The story follows young Swapna (Farha Khatun) and Sucheta (Manisha Bilkish) as they flee their village in Bengal, seeking refuge with strangers. Using aliases and creating new identities, they navigate multiple lives to preserve their bond. Along the way, they encounter a journalist who shelters them and introduces them to her progressive circle. However, when they sense danger, they flee again.
They eventually find solace with an elderly couple, adopting new names and roles. Swapna supports the couple by selling masks, while Sucheta secures a job with the help of Bikash, a trusted friend of the couple. Amidst their newfound stability, moments of intimacy emerge between the two women. However, when Bikash proposes marriage to Sucheta, their relationship is misunderstood as sisterly, highlighting the societal blind spot to their love.
The film poignantly explores the struggles of Swapna and Sucheta to live authentically in a world that refuses to accept them. It offers a touching reimagining of their story, emphasizing resilience and the pursuit of love against all odds.
Cast director: Debalina Majumder
Original name: If You Dare Desire…