Anjali Menon, a formidable presence in Malayalam cinema, has consistently defied trends and conventions, carving out a unique space for herself in the industry. After a brief hiatus, the director is back with a captivating short film titled Backstage, released as part of the anthology Yuva Sapno Ka Safar. In an interview with V. Praveena for Mathrubhumi, the director reflects on the importance of female friendships and the inspiration behind her new work.

Anjali, known for her insightful and poignant storytelling, speaks about the unique bond between women, calling it a "deeper" and more "intense" form of friendship. The filmmaker describes friendships as a powerful source of strength and energy. In the context of her new film, she explains that while the story is set against the backdrop of dance, it primarily revolves around the theme of friendship. Backstage explores the subtle complexities of relationships, touching on themes of competition, jealousy, and the unspoken understanding that ultimately strengthen bonds between people.

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Backstage, starring Padmapriya and Rima Kallingal in lead roles, is an exploration of such friendship within the world of dance. The director describes the film as a "mirror" to relationships, showcasing their delicate layers and the emotional turbulence that accompanies them.

The film is crafted in a way that resonates with diverse audiences. It is currently streaming on Waves OTT.

In the interview, Anjali mentioned that, having studied dance for over fourteen years, she was able to bring personal experiences and emotional struggles to the forefront of the narrative. The connection between dance and friendship becomes clear as the characters’ personal growth mirrors their artistic expression, showcasing how the art form can serve as a vessel for deeper emotional exploration.

Despite being a short film, Backstage is said to contain numerous visual moments that speak volumes, solidifying Anjali Menon’s place as a master storyteller who continues to explore complex human emotions with empathy and precision.