‘Half Ticket’ – An Emotion filled realistic film
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Rating: ★★★ ½
Genres: Drama Censor: U Duration: 130 min. Studio/presenter: Video Palace Producer(s): Nanu Jaisinghani, Suresh Jaisinghani, Mohit Jaisinghani Director: Samit Kakkad Writer: Dnyanesh Zoting Music: G.V Prakashkumar Cinematographer (DOP): Sanjay Memane Cast: Shubham More, Vinayak Potdar, Priyanka Bose, Usha Naik, Bhau Kadam, Jaywant Wadkar, Kailash Waghmare, Shashank Shinde, Shrikant Yadav Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Known for their realistic subjects, Marathi films have been appreciated world over. Now, the latest addition in this list is new Marathi film ‘Half Ticket‘, which is an emotion filled film, presenting the effect on the family of a person, who is arrested and kept in police custody, waiting for the court decision. His wife (Priyanka Bose Kamat) is working hard in a sewing unit, to raise money, to pay to the lawyer to get bail for her husband. At the same time, her two little children are looked after by their old grandmother( Usha Naik) at home.
The elder child in the family identifies himself as Mothya Kavalyache Anda( Big Crow’s egg) and younger one Chhotya Kavalyache Anda ( Egg of small crow); only because they are fond of picking up 2 eggs from the crow’s nest and sipping the content. They also support their mother by collecting the coal lying around the railway tracks, with the support of a track mechanic Tuti Fruti( Bhau Kadam) and selling it to a scrap vedor( Shashank Shende) . Initially, the elder son has a dream to possess a mobile phone. But, when a new Pizza shop is opened in their area, his new wish turns into sharing a Pizza worth Rs.299/- with his younger brother. To make it possible, they do extra work and earn the money in a short time.
When the two brothers are prevented from entering the shop by the security person, they on the advise of their friend Tutifruiti , start earning more doing odd jobs, to purchase new clothes for themselves, so that they could find entry into Pizza shop. But, this time, they are slapped by the manager. A video of this happening taken by a child in the neighbourhood, is acquired by the local goons in their slum and they blackmail the owner. But, the owner plays a smarter game , which fulfills the wish of the two children. But, after tasting the Pizza, they realize that the Home made Pizza attempted by the grandmother was much better.
With this simple emotion filled story, director Sameet Kakkad has presented a very sensible screenplay, showing the feelings of the slum children at that age.
Through the characters like Nana( Shrikant Yadav), Pokya( Kailash Waghmare), Chillar( Nitin Bhodare) & Shilwant( Jaywant Wadkar) , he has shown the selfish attitude of Politicians and their associates, while exploiting their own community people. The film also shows the dilemma of the woman, managing the house, after her husband is arrested by the police. Very cleverly, the director has tried to show, how the entry into big malls and Pizza shops become a dream for the children living in slums. If the dream of a little schoolboy boy from a well to do family , is owning a costliest wrist watch, that of a child of his age, living in slums, may be of eating a Pizza one day, costing Rs.300/-.
There are very few errors committed in the screenplay. How could this poor family, after winning a TV set in lucky draw, manage to have a satellite connection, with additional expenditure of at least Rs.500/- a month; when the woman is struggling to earn money to pay to the lawyer for her husband’s bail ? But, the intention of the story writer Dnyanesh Zoting is good, while dealing with this subject. The cinematic version of this story has become more effective, with the wonderful sound design by Anmol Bhave. Sanjay Memane’s cinematography, GV Prakash’s music and Faisal Imran’s editing makes this film more presentable. Excellent performances come from the two child artistes Shubham More & Vinayak Potdar, their mother played by Priyanka Bose kamat, Grand mother Usha Naik and others.
‘Half Ticket‘ is a much better film than ‘Slumdog Millionaire‘, because this film doesn’t exploit the poverty in city , but deals with a subject, with a social message. Moreover, it is made in Marathi, by our own Indian film maker. Certainly, a worth watch film, to understand how 54% of Mumbai’s population is living in slums and how they are struggling to survive in this tinsel town.
‘Astu’ presents an appealing tale of daughter’s concern for her ailing father
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Rating: ★★★★
Genres: Family drama Censor: U Duration: 120 min. Studio/presenter: Gauurikaa Films, A Vichitra Nirmiti Creation Producer(s): Sheelaa Rao, Dr.Mohan Agashe Director: Sumitra Bhave, Sunil Sukhtankar Writer: Sumitra Bhave Music: Dhananjay Kharwandikar, Saket Kanetkar Cinematographer (DOP): Milind Jog Cast: Dr.Mohan Agashe, Iravati Harshe , Milind Soman , Amruta Subhash, Nachiket Purnapatre , Devika Daftardar, Ila Bhate Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
‘Where there is a will, there is a way‘. About 30 months ago, producer Dr.Mohan Agashe and the director duo of Sumitra Bhave and Sunil Sukhtankar offered a sensible film ‘Astu‘, highlighting the concern of a daughter for her retired Father, who is suffering from Alzheimer. Unfortunately, the makers of this film could not distribute this film, for financial reasons. But, for the past two years, they received good support from the audience and lovers of such quality films. Now, with their financial support, ‘Astu‘ has been released in theatres all over Maharashtra. The film has already won several awards, including two national awards.
The story of ‘Astu‘ revolves around Dr. Chakrapani Shastri( Dr. Mohan Agashe) , a retired Sanskrit Scholar, who is suffering from Alzheimer. Though he lives separately in his own house in Pune, in the company of a student, who has come from village and a cook to prepare food for him; his daughter Ira Phatak (Irawati Harshe) and her Doctor husband ( Milind Soman) are in constantly touch with him. One day morning, when Ira picks up her father from his house, to take him to her house, she takes a halt in a market , to purchase something for her daughter. She warns her father to be seated in the car. But, after seeing an elephant , he is tempted to take a ride and goes missing, as he doesn’t remember anything, after returning back from a ride. When Ira returns to her car, she is shocked to find her father missing.
Ira calls her husband and both of them desperately go in search of her father everywhere, besides lodging a missing complaint with Police. In the meanwhile, Dr. Shastri follows the elephant, as the Mahout (Keeper of the elephant – Nachiket Purnapatre), after his day’s earnings, returns to his temporary residence, at the bank of river. Finding the old man as an unexpected guest ,the Mahout’s wife Channama( Amruta Subhash) treats him well, with food and water and showers upon him all the love, treating him like a child, after knowing about his ailment. All is well at the end, as the day comes to an end.
Director duo Sumitra Bhave and Sunil Sukhtankar have paid more attention on making the screenplay interesting. With the help of flashbacks and using other important characters at appropriate places, such as Rahi (Devika Daftardar) second daughter of Dr.Shastri , the two children of Ira, Mrs. Gupte( Ila Bhate) who is Dr.Shastri’s colleague from his research institute& Vasumati( Shubhangi Damle)as Dr.Shastri’s wife, they have tried to generate curiosity in every scene. The director duo has also succeeded in exploiting the acting potential of every important character in the film.
Though, wonderful performances come from Dr.Agashe and Irawati Harshe,it is Amruta Subhash, in the role of Chanamma, steals the show, in those few scenes to her share. Actually, her entry in the film is very late, almost in the post interval session. But, she looks so natural through her expressive face and body language. Good support also comes from Milind Soman, Devika Daftardar, Ila Bhate & Nachiket Purnapatre, through their respective important characters.
Dialogues by Sumitra Bhave are very well written with good support also coming from background music by Sanket Kanetkar. Milind Jog has captured indoor as well as outdoor scenes very creatively through his Lens eye.
‘Astu‘ is a masterpiece from Agashe, Bhave , Sukhtankar & Co. and should not be missed by Marathi film lovers. In short, ‘Astu‘, which means ‘So, be it‘, is a must watch film for all.
‘Ekk Albela’ is a tribute to Bhagwan Dada
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Rating: ★★★
Genres: Biopic Censor: U Duration: 120 min. Studio/presenter: Kimaya Motion Pictures, Manglmurti Films Producer(s): Dr.Monish Babre Director: Shekhar Sartandel Writer: Shekhar Sartandel Music: C. Ramchandra, Santosh Mulekar Cinematographer (DOP): Uday Devare Cast: Mangesh Desai, Vidya Balan, Vidhyadhar Joshi, Prasad Pandit, Swapnil Rajshekhar, Vighnesh Joshi, Shahnawaz Pradhan, Jyoti Joshi, Shriram Kolhatkar, Arun Bhadsavle, Riyaaz Mulani Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
After ‘Harischandrachi Factory‘ which was a biopic on legendary Dadasaheb Phalke, now it is the turn of Bhagwan Dada, the popular actor of stunt films turned film maker, who earned a name for himself, after achieving success through his super hit film ‘Albela‘. But, this latest released Marathi film ‘Ekk Albela‘ , which is based on the acting journey of Bhagwan Dada Palav is more like a tribute to this actor-director. 65 years have passed, since he made this hit musical Hindi film and released it, taking up a challenge to make a social film, on the advice of his friend and well wisher Raj Kapoor.
‘Ekk Albela‘ produced by Manglmurti Films and Kimaya Motion Pictures and directed by Shekhar Sartandel features Mangesh Desai in the role of Bhagwan Dada and Vidya Balan as Geeta Bali. His wife’s role is played by talented actress Tejaswi Patil, while another important role of his friend C.Ramachandra, the music director is played by Vighnesh Joshi. The magic of original music of C.Ramachandra has been retained in this Marathi film, with two full songs namely, ‘Shyam Dhale…‘ and ‘Shola Jo Bhadke..‘ in Hindi. Even we notice glimpse of other two original songs.
The hero of this film Mangesh Desai has found a lifetime role in this film and he has not only looked like Bhagwan Dada, with perfect make up, but has also cleverly portrayed the body language of the legendary actor. He has two best scenes in this film, the first one with Vidya Balan, when he persuades her to work in his film and the other when he goes to check the crowd response on the 13th day of the film, in the second week . Vidya Balan who takes entry into this film little before interval , has made her presence felt, in all those scenes in the film, in the post interval session. Her entry into Marathi film industry is certainly appreciated. Good support comes from Tejaswi Patil, who has played Mangesh Desai’s wife in the film. One wonders, as to why she is not being considered for better roles in Marathi films. Vighnesh Joshi as C.Ramachandra is impressive, while good support also come from Swapnil Rajshekhar, Vidyadhar Joshi, Vaibhavi Shandilya and others.
The only drawback of this film is that the makers of this film have only focused on the happy days and progress of Bhagwan dada as an actor and director in this film industry, taking some risks. But, they have avoided his downfall period, post ‘Albela‘ success, when he had to actually sell his bungalow and fleet of cars.
Nevertheless, director Shekhar Sartandel has sincerely presented some memorable moments in the life of Bhagwan dada, supported by good dialogues in Marathi and Hindi. The director has also picked up a perfect artiste to play Raj kapoor during his young days. Many other characters in different roles, look very natural. Thanks to the perfect make up. Some of the references made in the film’s screenplay, shows the hard work put in by the research team. The second part of this film is more appealing. The film’s cinematography is by Uday Deore, who has done a good job with music composed by Santosh Mulekar. All in all, ‘Ekk Albela‘ is certainly a worth watch film, for its well presented screenplay and its timeless music , which reminds us of the great work of C.Ramachandra. Indeed, this film is a perfect tribute to late Bhagwan dada.
‘Pindadaan’ presents mystical but predictable love story
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Rating: ★★½
Genres: Love Story, Drama Censor: U/A Duration: 120 min. Studio/presenter: Saarrthi Entertainment, Blue Fox Entertainment Producer(s): Nalini Patil, Uday Pictures Director: Prashant Patil Writer: Avinash Ghodke Music: Sagar Dhote Cinematographer (DOP):Bunty Deshpande Cast: Siddharth Chandekar, Manava Naik, Paula McGlynn, Prasad Pandit, Sanjay Kulkarni, Madhav Abhyankar, Farida Daadi Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Foreign actresses performing prominent roles in Marathi films, is not new to us. In the past, we have seen Billiana Rodonich, Stacy Bee and Suzanne Bernert playing suitable roles in Marathi films. Now, Canada born Paula McGlynn also makes her debut in Marathi, through latest released film ‘Pindadaan‘. But, the story of this film seems to be the only reason to offer her this role of Ana.
The film revolves around Ashutosh Devkar( Siddharth Chandekar) , director of documentary films, attached to Chanel 6 in London. On a special assignment given by his chief, Ashutosh arrives in India to make a film on the post death rituals i.e ‘Pindadaan‘, along with his camera person cum editor friend Ruhi ( Manava Naik) , from his London office . When they arrive in India, they proceed to a place in Maharashtra, on the banks of a river , where such rituals are performed.
The private vehicle driver Tukaram( Sanjay Kulkarni ) engaged by them not only acts as guide, but acts as a waiter in a hotel, which is converted from a old palace into a hotel. In short, Tukaram is all in one, to help them. But, Ashutosh forgetting his work, falls in love with a young foreigner lady Ana (Paula McGlynn) , whom he meets on the banks of the river, during early morning hours and nights. Ruhi, who is in deeply love with Ashutosh , is ignored by him, in spite having sexual relationship with her.
Not happy with the behaviour of Ashutosh, Ruhi decides to return back to London, when she notices some strange happenings. Rudra Baba, the local priest ( Madhav Abhyankar) who silently observes Ashutosh and the change in him, finally speaks, revealing the truth .
Director Prashant Patil has tried to develop Avinash Ghodke’s story into cinematic form. But, he has failed to generate that desired impact, required from such subjects. Even the story is not very appealing, as we have seen such themes in many films of the past. The screenplay of ‘Pindadaan‘, also gives clues about the happenings to follow, right from the beginning of the film. However, good performances by Siddharth, Manava, Paula, Sanjay Kulkarni & Madhav Abhaynkar are worth appreciating. Siddharth has a different look, but, Manva has cleverly used the right accent, to suit her NRI status; while Paula does her best to speak Marathi . Though the film is limited to around 2 hours length, you still feel that something went missing in the screenplay.
There was not need to have so many songs in the film, as they take away the interest of the audience from the happenings to follow. Music is just average. But , the background music and sound designing is impressive, with good support from art design. Bunty Deshpande has done his best to capture the day and night scenes, especially on the banks of the river. All in all, ‘Pindadaan‘ presents mystical but predictable love story. And hence, this film has turned out to be just an average film, with nothing extra ordinary to deserve better rating.
‘Cheater’ plays ‘Bhool Bhulaiya’ to present a horror comedy
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Rating: ★★½
Genres: Comedy Censor: U Duration: 130 min. Studio/presenter: Swiss Entertainment Pvt Ltd Producer(s): Pravinkumar Uadaylal Jain Director: Ajay Phansekar Writer: Ajay Phansekar Music: Abhijeet Narvekar Cinematographer (DOP): B. Laxman Cast: Vaibbhav Tatwawdi, Hrishikesh Joshi, Pooja Sawant, Aasavari Joshi, Suhas Joshi Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Over the years we have been watching horror films of Bollywood and Hollywood. Even some Marathi film makers did attempt horror films in the past. But, during the past 10 years, we saw the trend of horror films changing slowly, with introduction of horror-comedy theme in Bollywood. 2007 Bollywood film ‘Bhool Bhulaiya‘ was the best example. Now, director Ajay Phansekar has tried similar type of experiment in Marathi, offering something new to Marathi film lovers through his latest Marathi film ‘Cheater‘.
The film revolves around Abhay ( Vaibhav Tatwawdi) who is the son of a Agnihotri Brahmin father from Pune, who is regarded the highest priest of the community. Abhay’s brother and sister are well qualified. But, this happy go lucky youngster, cheats people for fun. He is in love with Mridula, who arrives in Pune, from Mauritius to study her post graduation in Psychology. One day, Mridula has to leave for Mauritius, as her father Mr. Satam ( Hrishikesh Joshi) has a surprise for their entire family, comprising of Mridula, her TV addict mother ( Aasavari Joshi) her grand mother ( Suhas Joshi) and younger brother ( Jeevan Kalarkar). But, on entering the new house, Mridula’s grand mother has unusual experience. So, she suggests her son to perform Vastu Pooja of the new Villa, to be done only by a Brahmin from Agnihotri family from Pune. When Mridula seeks help from Abhay, he himself arrives, posing as a Swami.
With his very first interaction with Abhay, Mridula’s father doubts his credentials; but Mridula’s mother and Grandmother approve Abhay and believe in his work. Abhay promises to release all negative energy from the house within 5 days. But, the spirit of a young woman appears in front of him, during night hour and challenges him. She seeks help from Abhay to liberate her soul after searching what she wants. But, for that, her soul has to enter the body of a living person. So, one by one she picks up each member of Mridula’s family members, to create comedy scenes in this horror based screenplay. Needless to mention that in the climax of the film, she achieves what she desires.
Good thing about this film is that all the artistes in this film have combined well, to create a perfect timing for comedy, making the audience forget that they are watching a horror film. Hrishikesh Joshi is the best among them. Vaibhav Tatwawdi has proved that he can fit into any type of role. His chemistry with Pooja Sawant has worked very well. Good support comes from Aasavari Joshi and Suhas Joshi. Director Ajay Phansekar has succeeded in entertaining the audience, especially in the second half of the film. But, to enjoy this film, the audience have to keep their logical thinking aside. The film maker already makes it clear, before the start of the film, through a declaration that the film does not promote blind faith. Music in this film is not very impressive, in spite of the voices of reputed singers like Avadhoot Gupte and Sonu Nigam. But, the background music is impressive. B.Laxman’s cinematography has skillfully captured some of the beautiful locations in Mauritius. Santosh Gawde has designed the costumes of the artistes very well.
‘Cheater‘ may appeal to those, who enjoy such type of horror comedy films. For others, it is just an average entertaining film.
‘Lalbaugchi Rani’ pours humour into emotions
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Rating: ★★★
Genres: Drama Censor: U Duration: 130 min. Studio/presenter: Boney Kapoor Producer(s): Sunil Manchanda Director: Laxman Utekar Writer: Rohan Ghuge Music: Rohit Nagbhide Cinematographer (DOP): Lawrence D’Cunha Cast: Veena Jamkar, Parth Bhalerao, Prathamesh Parab, Ashok Shinde, Neha Joshi, Nandita Dhuri, Pratima Joshi, Reshma Shinde, Subrat Dutta, Jaywant Wadkar Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Emotions have always played an important role in the scripts of Marathi films. But, some film makers believe in presenting such subjects, by pouring humour into emotions. Cinematographer turned Director Laxman Utekar is one of them. Through his latest released Marathi film ‘Lalbaugchi Rani‘ , he has presented an emotion filled story of a mentally challenged 24 year old girl Sandhya Parulekar. Instead of presenting the a routine ‘lost n found ‘ drama, he has offered entertainment through some interesting happenings in the screenplay with some humour filled dialogues.
To celebrate the 24th birthday of their daughter Sandhya ( Veena Jamkar), her parents take her out for the first time to Gateway of India. Being very fond of balloons, when Sandhya sees gas filled balloons flying in the air, follows them on the road and is lost in the crowded city of Mumbai. Being mentally challenged, she only keeps on telling all those people, whoever she comes across, that she is searching for the balloons. Her father ( Ashok Shinde ) with the help of his neighbours from his chawl in Lalbaug, desperately goes in search of his daughter all over Mumbai, besides lodging a missing complaint with police.
Having experienced the freedom for the first time, Sandhya first meets Andy ( Prathamesh Parab) a struggling actor, who is in search of roles. Encouraging him to be a big star one day, Sandhya asks for his autograph and later finds herself lonely . She is spotted by a little boy Govinda( Parth Bhalerao), who earns for his living by begging on roadside. Sandhya spends some happy time in his company, till she is spotted by a Policeman on duty late in the night. Somehow, she rescues herself, only to meet a young girl ( Reshma Chougule) from a rich family, who is about to commit suicide, due to her break up with her boyfriend. In Sandhya’s company, the young girl changes her plan and decides to return home. She even drops Sandhya to her address, in her car.
But, the writer and director seemed to be influenced by bollywood style plot in the post interval session, to take the film into climax , to show happy end, with Sandhya reuniting with her parents. Perhaps, Director Laxman Utekar had limited content and hence could not expand the story effectively, in the second half of the film. Instead of such a routine type of climax, he could have added some more interesting interactions of Sandhya with other people from the city. He has however, shown Veena Jamkar’s interaction with Parth Bhalerao and Reshma Chougule effectively. The exchange of sandals and Sandhya indicating that it was the sixth time she was celebrating her birthday, were enough hints for the audience to understand the circumstances.
More than the happenings in the screenplay, it is Veena Jamkar’s outstanding performance steals the show. It’s a lifetime role and she has given her best. Good support comes from Prathamesh Parab, with a different look, Parth Bhalerao , Reshma Chougule, Ashok Shinde, Neha Joshi, Nandita Dhuri, Jagannath Nivangune and Subrat Datta through a small role. Music of Rohit Nagbhide is noticed in one song and one title song at the end of the film; but Lawrence D’cunha’s beautiful cinematography, capturing the glimpses of Mumbai during day and night, is worth mentioning.
All in all, ‘Lalbaugchi Rani‘ has tried to pour humour into emotions, to offer some entertainment .
‘Laal Ishq’- offers a stereotype suspense filled drama
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Rating: ★★★
Genres: Romantic, Thriller Censor: U Duration: 120 min. Studio/presenter: Bhansali Productions Producer(s): Sanjay Leela Bhansali Director: Swapna Waghmare Joshi Writer: Amit Khan Music: Amitraj Sawant, Nilesh Moharir Cinematographer (DOP): Prasad Bhende Cast: Swwapnil Joshi, Anjana Sukhani, Jaywant Wadkar, Priya Berde, Kamlesh Sawant, Samidha Guru, Piyush Ranade, Sneha Chavan, Milind Gavali, Yshashri Masurkar, Uday Nene, Farzil Perdiwala Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Finally, the much awaited first Marathi film of Sanjay Leela Bhansali is releasing on this Friday. But, frankly speaking though the film has all those ingredients to offer a suspense filled plot supported by good music and best performances, it lacks the touch of a Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film.
Set on the backdrop of a holiday resort close to a popular hill station near Mumbai, we notice a troupe of Marathi drama arriving there, for their rehearsal. While lead pair of the drama Yash Patwardhan( Swwapnil Joshi) his co-star Shreya ( Sneha Chavan) and director Potdar( Jaywant Wadkar) arrive in a car, the rest of the artistes along with production manager arrive in a tourist bus.
On their arrival itself, the hero of this film Yash falls in love with the young beautiful Resort Manager Janhavi ( Anjana Sukhani) and then begins a real life drama in their life. Director Potdar, known for his arrogance and who is in a habit of insulting all the artistes, fires Shreya, during the rehearsal on the very first day and that annoys Yash, who decides to walk out from the drama group. In the meanwhile, Potdar catches Yash and Janhavi together red handed and he threatens them that he would inform about the same, to the owner of the resort Guru Patil( Milind Gavali) , who is engaged to Janhavi.
Soon, we find Potdar being murdered and the Police team led by Sr. Inspector Randive ( Kamalesh Sawant ) and his deputy Nandini ( Samidha Guru ) arriving at the resort, to interrogate two main suspects, Yash and Janhavi separately . But, as their detection progresses, we find two more murders taking place . During the process of interrogation, we also find Nandini falling in love with her Boss, appreciating his efforts. Finally, both succeed in solving the multiple murder case.
Though the film ‘Laal Ishq‘ belongs to Swwapnil Joshi and Anjana Sukhani, for their good performances, director Swapna Waghmare Joshi has given enough scope to the two police officers, played by Kamlesh & Samidha. In fact, all the other important artistes in this film, namely Jaywant Wadkar, Sneha Chavan, Milind Gavali, Piyush Ranade have found prominent roles. Good support also comes from Uday Nene & Yashasvi Masurkar. However, senior artiste like Priya Berde has been wasted in this film.
One can understand the skills of the director to unfold the mystery, by showing all the important happenings through flashback, during the police interrogation; but still you find something missing. The reason is simple. All the happenings take place at one place, i.e. at the resort in the indoors. But, still Prasad Bhende’s cinematography is worth appreciating and so is the music by Amitraj and Nilesh Moharir, through those two good songs. The other two areas of appreciation are costumes and art direction.
All in all, though ‘Laal Ishq‘ offers a stereotype suspense filled drama with good music and fine performances, this two hour long film, fails to create the desired impact, as expected from a celebrity Bollywood film maker like Sanjay Leela Bhansali known for his majesty and Swapna Waghmare Joshi , who offered us a hit Marathi film like ‘Mitwa‘.
‘Paisa Paisa’ deals with an unconvincing plot
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Rating: ★★
Genres: Thriller Censor: U Duration: 130 Min. Studio/presenter: The Nine Films Producer(s): Shivvilash Chaurasiya Director: Joji Raechal Job Music: Soham Ajay Pathak Cinematographer (DOP): S. Prasad, Anik Verma Cast: Sachit Patil, Spruha Joshi, Milind Shinde, Aashish Newalkar, Pankaj Vishnu, Vikas Patil Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Marathi films have made progress at the international level, for their new subjects and ability to handle ‘out of the box’ topics. But, still there are some film makers in Marathi, who believe in borrowed subjects from Hindi or remakes of south Indian films. Latest released film ‘Paisa Paisa‘ falls in this category. Produced by Shivvilash Chaurasia and directed by Joji Raechal Job, the story of this film revolves around an ad film maker Ajay ( Sachit Patil) who is already struggling in his life, with financial problems. His wife Janhavi( Spruha Joshi) , who is a Model, has separated from him for the past six months and they are in the process of patching up.
Janhavi calls Ajay to their old meeting point- a coffee shop to forget the past and start a new life. But, on his way, Ajay receives a call from his friend Rajiv ( Ashish Newalkar) that he has been kidnapped in Nagpur , where he had gone to give an interview; and the captor( Milind Shinde) had demanded Rs. 10 thousand for his release. So, he goes out of his way, to raise the money for his friend’s release, which could be deposited in his bank account. By the way, his friend Ajay is already broke like him and does not have any balance in his savings account. Before contacting Ajay, when Rajiv requests his girlfriend Neha ( Vinita Joshi) in Mumbai to remit the amount, without telling her the real story, she misunderstands him and refuses to oblige.
So, with this limited plot, we find the film’s hero begging money from all his sources, except his wife; who keeps waiting for him at the coffee shop for two long hours. Now, looking at the methods adopted by Ajay to raise money in parts from different sources, including an illegal trade, fails to convince the Marathi film audience. In today’s smart phone age , they really wondered, why the helpless hero, at a particular point, didn’t think about taking police help, especially when he receives a call from the captor’s number. Perhaps, he was not watching Marathi serials like ‘Lakshya‘ and ‘Asmita‘. Even Rajiv, who appears to be street smart, fails to stop or resist the auto-rickshaw driver, when he knows that he is being taken to an unknown destination.
With all those unconvincing happenings in the screenplay, the film reaches the climax, where again the audience is taken for granted. The only good thing about this film, is its good cinematography and background music. Lead actor Sachit Patil is impressive in his performance. Spruha Joshi is a waste in this film. Except for one title song in the beginning of the film, she doesn’t face the hero face to face, in any of the scenes. It is only conversation over phone. Milind Shinde, who plays the auto rickshaw driver, kidnapping Ajay’s friend, has delivered the same type of dialogues repeatedly, except for last scene. Artistes like Madhav Abhyankar, Pankaj Vishnu, Pushkar Shrotri, Deepali Sayed & Vinita Joshi are just namesake in this film. All in all, the film fails to appeal, for its unconvincing borrowed plot.
‘Sairat’ offers a bitter dose in a sugar coated pill
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Rating: ★★★ ½
Genres: Drama Censor: U Duration: 165 Min. Studio/presenter: Essel Vision, Aatpat Production Producer(s): Nitin Keni, Nikhil Sane, Nagraj Manjule Director: Nagraj Manjule Writer: Nagraj Manjule Music: Ajay Atul Cinematographer (DOP): Sudhakar Yakkanti Reddy Cast: Rinku Rajguru, Akash Thosar,Tanaji Galgunde, Arbaj Shaikh, Dhananjay Nanavare, Anuja Mulay, Nagraj Manjule, Chhaya Kadam Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Some films are made for masses, which are called commercial films; while those with hard hitting subjects with a social message, are categorized as festival kind of films, watched by selected film lovers. But, what if one has to offer a hard hitting social subject for the masses ? In that case, the bitter subject of the film has to be sugar coated, with all those ingredients, required, to pull the crowd to the theatres. This is what the makers of the film ‘Sairat‘ have done, to present this story, wrapped up with good music and supported by college days love story, made interesting with well developed screenplay and humor filled dialogues.
Set on the backdrop of a village in Solapur district, the love story of collegians Parshya and Aarchie blossoms, with both getting intensely involved with each other. In the later stage of their love, it is Aarchie who is shown more bolder than Parshya, in taking certain decisions. After facing stiff opposition from her father, towards their love, Aarchie takes up the bold decision to flee with Parshya. Both manage to dodge the deadly chase by men sent by Aarchie’s father for their hunt, wherever they move. Finally, they reach Hyderabad. But, things are not easy there too. Luckily, a local lady migrated from Solapur, helps them, after understanding their story. She not only offers them shelter in a room in slums of Hyderabad, but also helps them to earn for their living.
It is at this stage, we notice the direction of Nagraj Manjule, to show the realities in the lives of this young couples. Very cleverly, he has shown their journey, filled with challenges. He does take his own time, to show their struggle for survival, including their marriage and happy moments in their life. However, towards the end, he makes the audience ponder on reality. And, this is where Nagraj Manjule makes his point, as a director.
The film is no doubt entertaining, in the first half, with all the songs covered in the first session, which stretches almost to one hour thirty minutes. Even in the post interval stage, after the youngsters arrive in Hyderabad, till the time of their marriage, a lot of time has been wasted, making this total 2 hours 45 minutes long film.
The film certainly scores on account of its wonderful music by Ajay Atul. All the four songs have been picturised well. Thanks to the superb camera work of Sudhakar Reddy. The two youngsters Rinku Rajguru and Akash Thosar have given full justice to their characters. Especially, Rinku stands out, with flying colours on her grand debut. Good support also comes from Aakash’s two friends Tanaji & Arbaaz & Sumantai played by Chhaya Kadam and others. There are few scenes in the film, like Parshya’s two friends eating Ghutka openly and Aarchie’s arrogant brother slapping the professor in the class; which are not convincing and send a wrong message. Barring these flaws, ‘Sairat‘ is like offering a bitter dose in a sugar coated pill.
‘Bho Bho’ offers an action packed detective thriller with an emotional touch
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Rating: ★★★★
Genres: Thriller, Drama Censor: U Duration: 110 Min. Studio/presenter: Sumukhesh Films Producer(s): Bharat Gaikwad Director: Bharat Gaikwad Writer: Bharat Gaikwad Music: Parth Bharat Thakkar Cinematographer (DOP): Anil Chandel Cast: Prashant Damle, Subodh Bhave, Sharad Ponkshe, Ashwini Ekbote, Saurabh Gokhale, Sanjay Mone, Kishore Chougule, Anuja Sathe Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
“Dogs do speak, but only those who love them, can understand their language.” Latest released Marathi film ‘Bho Bho‘, produced and directed by Bharat Gaikwad, is the best example to show, how a dog lover private detective, investigates an unusual complicated murder case, where a pet dog is alleged to have murdered his lady owner.
An ex Police Officer Vyankatesh Bhonde ( Prashant Damle) expert in detecting cyber crimes, had to quit his job, because he is traumatized, due to shocking accidental death of his little daughter. To forget his grief, he feeds the street dogs and earns some income, by working as private detective, for an agent PD ( Sanjay Mone). While working on one unusual case connected with an insurance claim made by Prof. Vinayak Bhadarkar ( Subodh Bhave) , he smells something fishy.
When Vyankatesh Bhonde detects this case, in his own style, he first visits Sandy, the pet dog of the family kept under observation in a veterinary hospital. But, he finds him normal. Knowing the behaviour of the dogs well, he can’t believe that Sandy has attacked and killed Ms. Sandhya Bhandarkar ( Anuja Sathe) without any provocation. Bhonde gets totally involved into this case, as he also wants to save the life of Sandy and at the same time keep a close watch on Vinayak Khanolkar, his short tempered younger brother Vikram( Saurabh Gokhale), the Veterinary doctor at animal hospital Dr.Dalvi ( Sharad Ponkshe) & the hospital attendant Tanavade ( Kishore Chougule). And, he gets timely help from Jr. Doctor Neha ( Ketaki Chitale). Initially Bhonde’s disturbed wife( Ashwini Ekbote) is unhappy with his working style, but, later she too supports his mission. Finally, Vyankatesh Bhonde succeeds in solving the case and in the climax, we notice the Police reopening the case for court trial.
Director Bharat Gaikwad has very efficiently handled this entire drama, making it an interesting detective thriller. The choice of Prashant Damle to play the lead role, is perfect. Prashant has given full justice to his role, as this is also his comeback film in lead role after 17 years. In three important close up scenes, he has displayed his emotions very aptly. Through his peculiar dialogue delivery, he generates spontaneous humour on many occasions, be it while dealing with Vinayak, Vikram, Dr.Desai, agent PD, insurance company officials or their lawyers. In short, he has given his best, so as to be reckoned for the best actor’s award. Natural performances also come from Subodh Bhave, Sanjay Mone, Sharad Ponkshe, Ashwini Ekbote, Anuja Sathe, Ketaki Chitale and Saurabh Gokhale. Among them, Saurabh Gokhale makes his presence felt, with his angry young man image. Good support also comes from many other character artistes, through their small but effective roles.
For any detective film, cinematography and background music play a very important role. In ‘Bho Bho‘ we find good work done by Anil Chandel through his excellent camera work and appropriate background music provided by Parth Bharat Thakkar. There are no songs in this 1 hour 50 minute long film, except for one well presented title song towards the end. Good editing work by Mukesh Timori is also another plus point of this film. All in all, ‘Bho Bho‘ is an entertaining suspense filled detective thriller, with an emotional touch. Don’t miss it. It’s a worth watch.