Heavy Load

Money motivates people—it drives us to thrive, make ends meet, and even prove our success by acquiring the material things we desire. Yet, it’s often the root of evil, corrupting minds and leading people to steal, cheat, and harm others. This sad reality blinds us to life’s true beauty and the intangible treasures that matter most. Alisher Mishelyov, a student filmmaker from Kazakhstan, challenges this perspective with his short film Heavy Load. In just under seven minutes, Mishelyov offers a thought-provoking take on what we undervalue in life, crafting a story that lingers long after the credits roll.

Heavy Load, written and directed by first-time filmmaker Mishelyov, explores the misguided pursuit of money through a lens of greed, disappointment, and unexpected redemption. The story follows a group of thieves who steal a brown bag, convinced it contains a fortune. When they discover it only holds books, their disappointment turns to violence as they blame and beat one of their own, suspecting betrayal. Convinced the bag is worthless, they discard it in a trash bin.

But the story doesn’t end there. A bystander retrieves the bag, hoping the thieves overlooked hidden riches. He enlists a friend to search the books for cash, only to share in the same disappointment. They pass the bag to a young woman at a nearby school, who finally sees its true worth. She cherishes the books as treasures and shares a profound quote from René Descartes: “The reading of all good books is like a conversation with the finest minds of past centuries.” In this simple yet powerful moment, the cycle of greed is broken, replaced by the realization of the priceless value of knowledge.

Mishelyov captures this narrative with remarkable creativity, especially considering his zero-budget constraints. The film masterfully conveys chaos and helplessness, immersing viewers in the cycle of disregard and disappointment. Yet, by the end, it offers hope and perspective, leaving us with the lasting message that some of life’s greatest treasures are intangible and eternal.

For a first-time filmmaker, Alisher Mishelyov has created an impressive and thought-provoking piece. His storytelling is imaginative, his perspective unique, and his ability to evoke emotion commendable. Heavy Load is not just a film—it’s an experience that reminds us of the overlooked treasures that hold far greater value than money. Mishelyov’s debut marks the beginning of what promises to be a bright and impactful journey in filmmaking.