It has been a bit of a unique experience trying to maintain a small indie film site as I embarked on a hospice journey and through the subsequent loss of my father. So, it was appreciated, first of all, when producer and lead actor Anand Mahalingam acknowledged my father's death in his submission of the just under 17-minute short film Ronnie California: The King of Artesia, a comedy short about an Indian immigrant who operates an illegal gambling ring out of the back of his failing saree shop. When his surrounding community exposes his shady dealings, California (Mahalingam) must face the music and face the choices he's made. 

I must admit I found Ronnie California to be a bit more poignant than likely intended given the current climate toward immigrants in the United States. However, this is a film that dives less into that and more into the comic potential of this entertaining short film. 

Mahalingam makes for an engaging, fun lead as Ronnie and is supported quite nicely by Nirvan Patnaik as Sidd. Shalini Bathina is also quite winning as Shivani. It should be noted that this film, written and directed by Adi Kalidindi, features a fun ensemble along with effective lensing by Samuel Ott and a complementary score by Nikhil Koparkar. 

While I'm visiting this film later than intended, Mahalingam's more low-key and understanding approach to soliciting an review was a winner for me in a season when more than a few filmmakers have opted for repeated e-mail submissions bordering on rudeness (not an effective approach). With a plan to release Ronnie California: The King of Artesia via streaming platforms, this is a fun, entertaining short film worth checking out if and when you get a chance. 

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic