Powerful exploration of the lasting impact of childhood abuse (IANS Rating: ***)

In a recent development in the world of cinema, a truly terrifying and tragic drama titled ‘Yes Papa’ has been released theatrically, shedding light on the taboo subject of incest and child abuse. Directed by Saif Hyder Hasan, the 85-minute feature film delves into the horrifying story of a young woman on trial for the murder of her father, who had been sexually abusing her. The film provides a chilling portrayal of the emotional trauma and psychological impact experienced by victims of such heinous crimes.

Saif Hyder Hasan, known for his work in theatre productions, makes his directorial debut with ‘Yes Papa’, bringing to the forefront the sensitive issue of incest and child abuse. The film follows the story of Vinita, played by Geetika Tyagi, who is confronted with the unimaginable reality of her father’s heinous acts. As the narrative unfolds, the audience is taken on a journey through the disturbing details of a girl’s traumatic childhood, marked by silence, complicity, and societal respectability.

The film not only highlights the harrowing experiences of the victim but also explores the ripple effects of such abuse on relationships, mental health, and family dynamics. Through powerful performances by the cast, including Ananth Mahadevan, Divya Seth, Nandita Puri, and Tejaswini Kolhapure, ‘Yes Papa’ presents a raw and unflinching portrayal of a middle-class family torn apart by the cycle of abuse and silence.

With a runtime of 85 minutes, ‘Yes Papa’ challenges audiences to confront the uncomfortable truths of incest and abuse, while urging reflection on the complexities of human behavior and societal norms. The film’s nuanced storytelling, aided by cinematography by Vineet Dubey, Chetan Chand, and Tanha Fermin Rezi, captures the emotional depth and turmoil of the characters with sensitivity and compassion.

In a cinematic landscape that often shies away from addressing such challenging subjects, ‘Yes Papa’ stands out as a bold and thought-provoking exploration of a dark and pervasive reality. Director Saif Hyder Hasan’s commitment to portraying the harsh realities of incest and abuse with authenticity and empathy sets this film apart as a compelling and essential work of art in cinema.