It was a Friday evening brimming with anticipation in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, as cinephiles gathered for the much-awaited premiere of Mr Cupid is Cruel—the fourth installment in the acclaimed Video Haiku short film series.
The 19-minute film, directed by the ever-innovative Anirban Ray, was officially launched by octogenarian and multi-faceted personality Maggie Jeans. Her presence added a touch of grace and wisdom to an already vibrant evening, attended by an enthusiastic crowd of movie lovers.
A Quirky Take on Love
Mr Cupid is Cruel breathes fresh life into the age-old character of Cupid—the Greek god of love, known more recently as a mischievous “Love Guru.” In this modern reimagination, Mr Cupid roams through the city, observing couples: a pair locked in the routine grind of domestic life, two old friends reconnecting over coffee, and even a doting father and daughter sharing sweets. But none of these scenes stir him to action.
It’s only when he spots Jack, a brooding singer pining for the attention of a quiet café regular named Lilly, that Cupid decides to intervene. Jack, though enamored, lacks the confidence to express his love. His attempts at serenading Lilly with modern “lovsie” numbers are met with indifference.
Enter Mr Cupid—draped in a flowing red gown, crowned Roman-style, and armed with his signature bow and arrow. The character’s striking look was styled by renowned make-up artist Azra Aleem. Cupid nudges Jack toward singing timeless classics from the golden era, subtly suggesting that true romance lies in sincerity and timeless charm.
A Valentine’s Day Twist
On Valentine’s Day, Jack gathers the courage to perform a golden classic—only to lose his voice on stage. Just as he’s about to be humiliated, Lilly steps in, takes the mic, and sings the song herself. The two then finish the duet together, much to the delight of the audience—and Mr Cupid, whose mission is complete.
The film’s message is clear: love, when rooted in authenticity and heartfelt expression, will always find its way.
Film Director Anirban Ray in brown shirt flanked with Shandar, Nabeel of First Exchange, Vishal from Lulu, Michelle, GM, The Royal Tulip, Dr Subhashis Sircar (Mr Cupid) Mahesh Mistry & Vinod Raghavan.
Maggie Jeans and Michelle with Guests in the hall
A Night to Remember
After the screening, the atmosphere was electric. A film quiz hosted by Piya Pawani tested the audience’s attention to detail and rewarded winners with attractive prizes. Michelle, General Manager of The Royal Tulip, Ghobra, offered dinner-for-two vouchers, while beauty and grooming coupons were handed out by Jagruti Modha of Monity Beauty Parlour and Maoosam Mistry of Glam by Maoosam.
Mr Cupid is Cruel marks another creative milestone for Anirban Ray, whose earlier Video Haiku shorts—Move On, The Lift, and Not A Friend—also struck a chord with viewers.
In a world rushing toward the next big thing, Mr Cupid is Cruel gently reminds us to pause, reflect, and reconnect—with music, with memory, and most importantly, with love.
Centuries have passed and Cupid has grown to a matured man but with the same old tricks. He urges Jack, a soulful guitarist to express his love to Lily through an old song Will Lily hear his heart+guitar beats? Will fate rewrite his voice? (Part of VIDEO HAIKU Series) : https://youtu.be/15Cw2Z5U_O0?si=CKKMLhH6Evom1i6G
– Report By Vinod Raghavan