An Introduction.

Hi, my name's Rono Bijoy Pal and I am a senior at New York University, Tisch School of the Arts. As I reach the last leg of my academic journey, I am thrilled to share with you, my Thesis short film, "The Longest Memory."

What is 'The Longest Memory'?

The Longest memory is the story of Som, an old man who's suffering from Alzheimer's, and the relationship that he has with his ten-year-old  grandson, Neel.

The film follows the pair as they journey through the crowded and winding market streets of New York in search of Som's childhood flame. There is just one massive hurdle however; Som suffers from Alzheimer's and his memory cannot be relied upon.

Why the Story?

The story of Som is one that resonates with me deeply. My maternal grandfather suffered from Alzheimer's and would struggle to remember his close ones. On the other hand, my paternal grandfather who recently passed away due to COVID was a poet and intellectual who loved art and literature. As a result, the film happens to be, in a way, a personification of the two people I looked up to in my life. Having spent time with them during the latter stages of their lives, I was inspired to pen this story which explores and addresses matters such as loss, guilt, sorrow, filial obligations and love between two souls. 

Meet our characters...

Som is a 72 year old scrawny man who suffers from Alzheimer’s. Physically, he is just skin on bones. Time has not been kind to Som and it shows clearly on his face. He is a grumpy old man who is extremely adamant and crass. He is that old relative of yours who sits in front of the TV all day, screaming at anything that dares to move. Underneath the hard shell however, Som has a soft heart. All he wants is to not die alone and he is willing to go to extreme lengths in hopes of achieving it.

Som’s young and playful grandson Neel is a 10 year old kid who’s bursting with energy. In complete contrast to Som, he is a cheerful, happy, and optimistic lad. All he wants apart from hot dogs is to spend time with his old man and grow closer to him.

Investment Breakdown.

Who's on board?

Our Production Timeline!