Why I Chose the Names “Anaya” and “Arvin”

When creating a story, every detail matters,  from the setting to the costumes, and most importantly, the names of the characters. For my short film, I spent a lot of time thinking about the names of my main characters, and I finally settled on Anaya and Arvin. Each name holds a special meaning and reflects the essence of the story I want to tell.

Anaya: A Name That Carries Emotion

The name Anaya is of South Asian origin and means care or protection. I chose it because my main character embodies sensitivity, depth, and vulnerability. Anaya’s journey in the film is emotional, with many silent moments that rely purely on her expressions and reactions. I wanted her name to resonate with her personality.

Additionally, I wanted a name that felt modern yet timeless, relatable but unique.


 

Arvin: A Name That Feels Futuristic and Supportive

The name Arvin was chosen for the AI companion in the story. Arvin is meant to be helpful, guiding, and emotionally intelligent, so the name had to convey trustworthiness and intelligence. I wanted a name that sounded friendly and approachable, yet futuristic enough to hint at the sci-fi aspect of the story.

It represents the AI’s supportive role in Anaya’s life and contrasts with her human vulnerability, emphasising the connection between humans and technology.



The Importance of Naming in Storytelling

Names are the first layer of a character. They shape how the audience perceives them, even before any action or dialogue. By choosing Anaya and Arvin, I aimed to create an emotional connection between the characters and the viewers. Every time the audience hears these names, I want them to feel a sense of familiarity, warmth, and curiosity about the story that unfolds.