‘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.
‘Ek Hota Valya’ exposes unfair attitude of Politicians towards Koli community
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Rating: ★★ ½
Genres: Social, Political Censor: U Duration: 130 Min. Studio/presenter: Sharp Minds Moving Images Producer(s): Mukesh Thomare Director: Sharadchandra Jadhav Writer: Sharadchandra Jadhav Music: Ashok Vaingankar, Nitesh Tiwari Cinematographer (DOP): Augustyanag Jadhav Cast: Sharadchandra Jadhav, Nandkumar Patil, Priyanka Sasane, Arvind Dhanu, Manohar Bhagat, Yashwant Joshi, Vijay Koli, Abhay Kulkarni Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
65 years have passed since India’s independence, but, none of the politicians have looked into the grievances of Koli community and similar other communities, for giving them due recognition as Adivasi Koli in scheduled tribes category . Some influential people from this community managed to acquire the certificates; but others could not prove their credentials , during caste verification. Even before the independence, during British rule and even after the Indian constitution was passed, there seems to be a provision to recognize people from Koli community, as Adivasi Koli. But, all the Governments formed, have ignored their demands. That’s what some people from this community feel.
Latest released Marathi film ‘Ek Hota Valya‘ has raised these issues of Koli community , exposing the unfair attitude of Politicians towards this community. The film begins with the statement on the Preamble of the Constitution of India, thus making the intention of the film maker very clear. The lead hero of the film Valya ( Sharadchandra Jadhav), becomes a victim of caste verification , ordered by the Maharashtra Government. The film goes on to show, how the caste verification is only ,made applicable to local people from Maharashtra, whereas, the Governments from other states do not carry out such operation strictly . As a result of this, those from outside the state get away with such caste verification procedure, as for them, it is not necessary to acquire the records prior to 1950.
So, Valya after losing his job, turns a protagonist and fights against injustice on his community. He faces all the challenges from Politicians; but succeeds in uniting his community and similar other communities like Govari, Dhangar, Gavit and so on.. to fight for their rights. The film therefore takes the form of a documentary, though the director has managed cleverly, to prove the recognition to his community with due privileges from the Government. Though the intention of the film maker has been good, to invite the attention of the people to the grievances of this community, the film fails to create the desired punch. This is only because, the actor himself has written story, screenplay and dialogues , besides directing this film. The screenplay of the film, presents only the story of lead character. It would have been better, if there were similar other victims of caste politics, like him.
In the past, we have seen the films on the exploitation of Dhangar and Adivasi communities, through few Marathi films like ‘Khwada‘, ‘Dhangarwada‘, ‘Khairlanjichya Mathyavar‘ and others. They were able to present the issues of these communities very effectively, through the film’s screenplay. However, ‘Ek Hota Valya‘ fails to take the strong grip on the screenplay. There is no doubt about the sincerity of the lead actor Sharadchandra Jadhav, while presenting his character truthfully. But, still there were many things, missing from this film, to make it more realistic. Few scenes from the film have stretched too long. There was no need to show an item number, as it looks odd , with Politician himself watching his own video clip with the dancer, in the screenplay.
There is little scope for music of Ashok Vaigankar & Nitesh Tiwari, but cinematography by young Augustyanag Jadhav is good. Performances of supporting artistes Priyanka Sasane, Arwind Dhanu, Manohar Bhagat, Yashwant Joshi and Nandkumar Patil are just fine. Technically speaking, ‘Ek Hota valya’ is just an average social-political film, with a message.
‘Vrundavan’ is influenced by Bollywood & South romantic action films
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Rating: ★★★
Genres: Drama, Romantic Censor: UA Duration: 130 Min. Studio/presenter: Realistic Film Company Producer(s): Rajpremi, Sunil Khandpurkar, Sandip Sharma, Jigar Kadakia Director: T.L.V. Prasad Writer: Abhiram Bhadkamkar Music: Amitraaj Cinematographer (DOP): Vasudeva Rao Cast: Raqesh Bapat, Pooja Sawant , Vaidehi Parshurami, Ashok Saraf, Mohan Joshi, Mahesh Manjrekar, Bharat Ganeshpure, Aarti Solanki Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Over the years, we have been watching formula type of Commercial films in Bollywood and especially in South Indian film industry, which are combination of action, romance, comedy and emotion all packed together. Now, with the passage of time, we notice more stunts of the film’s hero, backed by special effects. Also, with the advancement of technology, we find better sound design, excellent art work and stimulating music, to offer a complete entertainment package to the audience. Latest released film ‘Vrundavan’ falls in this category.
So, if you are willing to keep the logical thinking aside, ‘Vrundavan’ is just an ideal film for you. The film which begins with a love story of Krish( Raqesh Bapat) and Pooja( Pooja Sawant) , later turns into an action packed film, with Krish taking up the difficult task of playing the dummy boyfriend of Pooja’s close friend Bhoomi ( Vaidehi Parshurami), only at the request of his beloved Pooja. This plot itself is not convincing, as no young girl, who is intensely in love with her boyfriend, would let him go with another beautiful girl. But, Pooja trusts Krish and that’s how, we see the predictable drama taking place, in the story of this film, which follows.
But, the new Superman of Marathi films, Krish handles this most difficult situation confidently. He becomes friendly with Bhoomi’s family members, comprising of almost a cricket team, on the style of Shahrukh Khan doing it in films like ‘Pardes’ or ‘Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge .’ He also wins the heart of tough looking father of Bhoomi( Mahesh Manjrekar) and her uncle (Sharad Ponkshe). All seems to be going well,; but Bhoomi’s father decides to get his daughter married to Krish, when we see the predictable drama, with villain opposing the marriage, except for a twist in the screenplay. Needless to say, that all goes well in the end; but the solution sounds funny, almost going on the lines of a typical south Indian action based love story.
The film has some best action scenes, which would even leave behind the action or fight scenes performed by Sahrukh Khan, Ajay Deogan , Salman Khan & Akshay Kumar in their previous Bollywood films. So, Raqesh Bapat turns the new angry young man and Super hero of Marathi films. The entire film belongs to him, as he has scenes with almost all artistes in the film and he has done well, displaying his quick reflexes, perfect body language and good dialogue delivery. Good support comes from Pooja Sawant, though she doesn’t find much importance in this film. But, Vaidehi Parshurami steals the show, as she not only looks good, but has also performed well, displaying her dance skills too.
There is a big list supporting artistes in this film, but Ashok Saraf, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sharad Ponskse, Mohan Joshi, Bharat Ganeshpure , Aarti Solanki, Uday Tikekar find suitable roles. The villain played by Kumar Hegde is just namesake and doesn’t find much scope. Music by AmitRaj is the USP of this film. All the songs have been picturised well, with good choreography. Good cinematography by V.Vasudeva Rao is also the plus point of this film, besides special effects used in action scenes.
Regular Marathi film lovers, who love to watch realistic films, may not like this film; but there are film lovers, who enjoy watching films like ‘Chennai Express’, ‘Lai Bhari’ and similar south films, may enjoy watching this film. By the way, this film is a remake of 2010 telugu film ‘Brindavanam’and therefore, we very much miss the Marathi touch in this film, except for the Govinda song.
‘Rangaa Patangaa’ offers serious issue in a humorous way
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Rating: ★★★ ½
Genres: Social Drama Censor: U Duration: 130 Min. Studio/presenter: Bipin Shah Motion Pictures, Flying God Films, Vishwas Media And Entertainment Producer(s): Amol Vasant Gole, Rajesh Dempo, Madhavi Sameer Shetty Director: Prasad Namjoshi Writer: Chinmay Patankar Music: Kaushal Inamdar Cinematographer (DOP): Amol Vasant Gole Cast: Makarand Anaspure, Sandeep Pathak, Nandita Dhuri, Suhas Palshikar, Bharat Ganeshpure, Gauri Konge, Abhay Mahajan. Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
As a writer, Prasad Namjoshi had already earned a name. His book ‘Short Cut‘ has already won the State Government’s Literary award and as a Film writer, he has two films to his credit, ‘Kapus Kondyachi Goshta‘ and ‘Highway Touch Guntha Mantri‘. Now, through cinematographer turned Producer Amol Gole’s Marathi film ‘Rangaa Patangaa‘ , he got an opportunity to make his debut as a director. And, he has succeeded in offering a serious issue in a humorous way, very tactfully.
Set on the backdrop of rural Maharashtra, the film presents the story of a poor Muslim farmer, who lives with his wife Noor and his two bullocks, whom he treats like his own children. One day, his bulls go missing and worried Jumman goes to local Police station to record the missing complaint. But, he is driven out by the Policeman.
Helpless Jumman with the help of his dear friend Popat, then goes in search of the bulls Rangaa and Patangaa. During their search, they come across reporters of a News channel, who have arrived in their village, to cover the drought situation. When the reporters seek help from Popat, they come to know about the incidence of missing bulls of Jumman. And, they find this story more interesting. With the breaking of this news all over the state, it causes concern to the local administration at District level and a Police Officer is deputed to investigate the case of missing bulls. In the meanwhile, we find other TV channel people also following the same story, trying to compete with their rival channels.
Fed up of this nuisance, finally, we find Jumman going all alone in search of his bulls and succeeds in tracing them, with the efforts also put in by investigating Police officer and the reporters of TV channel, who first disclose this story. It is a simple story, but very effectively presented through interesting screenplay and humor filled dialogues, penned by the director himself. Makarand Anaspure in the role of Jumman has proved that he is not only a good comedian; but can also perform serious type of roles with full commitment. In the film, he has found excellent support from Sandeep Pathak, who has played the role of his friend Popat, with total conviction. Good support also comes from Nandita Dhuri, who looks so natural in the role of Noor, wife of Jumman. Comedian Bharat Ganeshpure suits well, in the character of a Minister, though he has limited role.
Among others, who have made this film more realistic are Gauri Konge as Popat’s wife, Suhas Palshikar as Head of the village, Umesh Jagtap as Police Constable, Hardik Joshi as investigating ACP and Abhay Mahajan as News channel reporter. Kaushal Inamdar has done a wonderful job of composing a Ghazal and a Qauwwali , based on the same lyrics. Anmol Bhave’s sound design is perfect, from beginning scene till the end of the film. Amol Gole has captured the progress of events in Jumman’s life, very creatively, through his Len’s eye. After all this was his own film. All in all, ‘Rangaa Patangaa’ is an emotion filled entertaining film.
‘Bhalya’ bats on a sticky wicket
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Rating: ★★ ½
Genres: Drama Censor: U Duration: 132 Min. Studio/presenter: Achintya Films, Siddhi Aaradhya Films Producer(s): Chaitali K, Amol Kale Director: Nitin Kamble Writer: Nitin Supekar Music: Trupti Chavan Cinematographer (DOP): I. Giridharan, Shanu Singh Rajput Cast: Nandkumar Solkar, Ramesh Dev, Sanjay Narvekar, Alka Kubal, Ganesh Jadhav, Mitali Jagtap, Sanjay Khapare, Anshuman Vichare, Sharad Ponkshe, Namrata Jadhav, Rajesh Kamble, Sourabh Karvande, Nitin Kamble, Mahesh Kute, Gary, Jeevan Karalkar, Prathamesh Kawle, Sahil Joshi Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Cricket has always played a big role in the field of entertainment. The subject of cricket has also been used by our Bollywood film makers, through some of the past films. Among them, ‘Iqbal‘ was one of the most impressive films, which generated the desired impact on the audience. In Marathi, we have seen few films based on cricket and among them, ‘Shikshanachya Aaicha Gho‘ tried to show, how cricket and studies cannot go together. Now, film maker Nitin Kamble has presented his subject on discrimination against Aadivasi community, when it comes to including them in the mainstream, be it in education or sports.
So, very thoughtfully he has chosen his subject, but has failed to create the required impact, through the film’s screenplay. In this film, he presents the character of little Bhalya( Nandkumar Solkar) , a boy from Aadivasi community, living in the outskirts of a village, along with his father Shukrya ( Sanjay Narvekar), mother Heera ( Mitali Jagtap) and grandfather( Ramesh Deo). Bhalya is a school drop out, as he cannot afford the fees of the village school . His family earns just enough income for their food. Bhalya spends his time with his friend Ziprya( Saurabh Karvande), roaming around, taking a dip into river and watching the local village school cricket team practicing on the ground. Actually, he is just passionate about this game of cricket and practices with his friend, emulating all the strokes, with his hand made bat. Watching his perfection, he is spotted by school captain, who is the son of a Government officer (Sharad Ponkshe). Like a good Samaritan , he offers him a chance to play, after convincing his school coach ( Sanjay Khapre). With few tips from the coach, Bhalya excels in his batting. But, this overshadows the performance of local politician’s( Ganesh Yadav) obese son, who is the member of school team.
Knowing about the disturbed state of mind of his son, the politician plays all his dirty games. But, that doesn’t stop the progress of Bhalya, who is selected to play for the school’s team, as a dummy for another player. Needless to say that Bhalya does well, hitting that six on the last ball, in the finals. But, the process through which he is given a chance to play for the school team and the decision taken by the committee to pardon the coach, for cheating; is not at all convincing. And, this is where the film fails to appeal. There were many other ways, to include Bhalya in school team, by someone like Desai Couple, or the foreigner Photographer( Gary Tatney) and well wisher of Bhalya, sponsoring his education. But, the director has thought the other way, to help an Aadivasi boy. There is one scene, where the politician comes to threaten the coach on the ground. He asks the coach to bowl him with half a dozen tennis balls brought by him and he hits all the balls with body line attack on the coach, who fails to protect himself. And, this looks funny, rather than a serious scene. The foreigner trying to defend Bhalya’s case before School Cricket Committee, also fails to convince.
However, the performances of the artistes have been exemplary. Nandkumar Solkar, who has played the role of Bhalya, has performed exceptionally well. Sanjay Narvekar impresses with his body language and fluent dialogues in Aadivasi language with that particular accent. Veteran Ramesh Deo, Alka Kubal Athalye, Sharad Ponkshe, Sanjay Khapre, Ganesh Yadav and Anshuman Vichare in negative role and others have offered good support. Music by Trupti Chavan goes well with the village backdrop, with good music offered for Holi song. Chaitrali Dongre has done a good job, designing suitable costumes of all characters. Last but not the least, I. Giridharan and Shanu Singh Rajput have captured good cinematography through their lenses. To sum up, ‘Bhalya’ batted on a sticky wicket.
‘Phuntroo’ offers science fiction with a difference
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Rating: ★★★ ½
Genres: Science Fiction, Romantic Comedy Censor: U/A Duration: 132 Min. Studio/presenter: Eros International, Spice Studios & Entertainment pvt. ltd., V.Patke films Producer(s): Krishika Lulla Director, Writer: Sujay S. Dahake Music: Rishikesh Datar, Jasraj Joshi, Saurabh Bhalerao Cinematographer (DOP): Archana Borhade Cast: Ketaki Mategaonkar, Madan Deodhar, Shivani Rangole, Ruturaj Shinde, Shivraj Waichal, Anshuman Joshi, Rohit Nikam Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Known for offering unique subjects, Marathi films have already made progress at the national and international level. Now, they have gone one step ahead, offering a science fiction, using the latest technology. Film maker Sujay Dahake, who gave us films like ‘Shala‘ and ‘Ajoba‘ has tried this experiment through his latest released film ‘Phuntroo‘. Actually, ‘Phuntroo‘ is the name of the unusual science project handled by a young Engineering student Veera( Madan Deodhar) who prepares the hologram of a girl Ananya ( Ketaki Mategaonkar) from his college, whom he loves from his heart.
Ananya is not the kind of girl, who would easily fall in love with a boy like Veera, as she treats him like her other friends from college comprising of Shruti ( Shivani Rangole), Nano ( Shivraj Waichal), Online (Ruturaj Shinde) & Galla ( Rohit Nikam). When Veera fails in all his attempts to please Ananya, he tries to put life into his ‘Phuntroo‘, to make her emotional, instead of behaving like a Robot. In the process, there are many such happenings, where a boy from their opposition camp Prakashan( Anshuman) tries to spoil the project of Nano, Ananya and their group. But, using his intelligence, Veera solves it. Soon, Nano comes to know about Veera’s experiment and he feels jealous, as he is very possessive about Ananya. He tries to expose him in front of the group. But, all goes well in the concluding part of the film, to show Veera and Ananya coming closer.
Director Sujay Dahake has handled this interesting subject very well. But, his film actually picks up only little before the interval and then manages to generate curiosity, till the end. Both Ketaki and Madan have given wonderful performances in this film. For ketaki, this is the best and well suited role, while Madan has really worked hard to display his frustration and emotions. Both have found good support from Shivani Rangole, Shivraj Waichal , Rutturaj, Rohit, Anshuman and others. Shivraj & Shivani in particular show promise.
However, some of the scenes in the film, especially in the first session, have been overstretched. Moreover, Veera in particular, has been shown smoking excessively, with the warning ‘Smoking Kills’, displayed on the screen every time. In one of the scenes, when Veera meets Ananya for the first time, he offers her a cigarette, which looks very odd. There is also one scene, when Veera asks for a cigarette from his friend. In this scene, a cigarette brand has been openly advertised. Therefore, simply issuing statutory warning on the screen, serves no purpose.
Some of the film’s dialogues are well written, to create humor, which is well suited to the language of engineering students. Two songs have been used well, with suitable music. But, the background music is more appealing. Even the photography by Archana Borhade is good. All in all ‘Phuntroo‘ is a good entertainer.
‘Sarpanch Bhagirath’ exposes the existing caste & village politics
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Rating: ★★★
Genres: Drama Censor: U Duration: 100 min Studio/presenter: Shivkumar Lad Productions Producer(s): Shivkumar Lad Director: Ramdas Phutane Writer: Asaram Lomte Music: Sambhaji Bhagat Cinematographer (DOP): Charudatta Dukhande Cast: Upendra Limaye, Veena Jamkar, Dr.Mohan Agashe, Kishor Kadam, Savita Malpekar, Swarangi Marathe, Jaymala Inamdar, Vijay Joshi, Meera Umap, Vasant Avsarikar, Uday Lagoo, Anand Panse, Jayvant Wadkar Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
In Maharashtra, we see the network of Panchayati raj spread across villages in different districts, with regular elections. Even with introduction of reservation for women and caste, we still notice the dominance of powerful politicians, who get elected their own trusted people to this most powerful post of Sarpanch, holding the strings in their hands.
Latest released film ‘Sarpanch Bhagirath‘ is set on the backdrop of one such village, in rural Maharashtra, where we find, Kakasaheb Deshmukh ( Dr.Mohan Agashe ) endorsing the name of Bhagirath Girve( Upendra Limaye), a farmer from his village, belonging to OBC category.
Bhagirath, after taking over this coveted post, tries to be impartial, with his straight forward nature. He refuses to bow down to the pressure tactics adopted by Deputy Sarpanch ( Savita Malpekar) and close associates of Kakasaheb. However, kakasaheb being as shrewd veteran politician, tries to play his dirty game, with his divide and rule politics. When, he comes to know that Bhagirath’s wife Rahi( Veena Jamkar) is pregnant, he suggests Bhagirath to abort the foetus , as giving birth to a third child, would disqualify Bhagirath from his post.
Otherwise, a happy family man with progressive thinking , Bhagirath suddenly becomes desperate and insists his wife to go for abortion. His wife refuses to do so. His old parents also go against his wish. On the advice of his close friend ( Kishore Kadam) from the same village, Bhagirath takes his wife to another village hospital and plays his game, by cheating his wife. Later, he repents on his decision and swears to work for the good cause.
With this limited substance, director Ramdas Phutane, has tried to cleverly induct the caste and religious politics in the screenplay. Another story of Salma( Swarangi Marathe) living in the neighbourhood of Bhagirath, has been used for the purpose of erupting religion based riots. Some of the dialogues are hard hitting on the existing caste and village level politics. The clever use of views expressed by famous political leaders like Sharad Pawar and Sushilkumar Shinde on caste politics in the state, does help to pass on a social message.
Through the characters like Bhagirath, his close friend, his wife and Salma, the film has made a strong statement against caste politics. Therefore, it is a timely film. But, certain situations in the screenplay of this film, fail to convince. How could straight forward Bhagirath become so desperate to take a drastic step, when he is otherwise a balanced person? When he is himself against taking bribe, where from he raises huge money, to bribe the doctor? Does that mean that Power corrupts all. ? And, last but not the least, how his educated poet friend suggests him to do something illegal?
Barring the few above non convincing happenings, this one hour 40 minute long film, is a sincere attempt to deliver a timely message to the society. Music of this film gives a rural feel and lyrics penned for the songs are just apt to the subject. Good performances are given by the lead pair of Upendra Limaye and Veena Jamkar. They look so realistic! Good support also comes from Dr.Mohan Agashe, Kishore kadam, Savita Malpekar & others.
‘Babanchi Shala’ artistically deals with a distinct social issue
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Rating: ★★★ ½
Genres: Drama Censor: U/A Duration: 130 min Studio/presenter: Idea Entertainment Producer(s): Vilas Mane, Umesh Nathani Director: R. Viraj Writer: Neela Satyanarayan Music: Soham Pathak, Kamlesh Bhadkamkar, Neela Satyanarayan Cinematographer (DOP): Ankush Birajdar Cast: Sayaji Shinde, Aishwarya Narkar, Shashank Shende, Kamlesh Sawant, Chhaya Kadam, Arti More, Umesh Bolake, Milind Adhikari, Kartik Chavan, Manjula Khetri, Kavita Chavan, Shreyas Raje Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Known for their strong levelheaded subjects, Marathi films have gone worldwide, through screening at various international film festivals. Our progressing country is in urgent need of thoughtful democratic reforms. And, our feature films can play this important role, of passing a social message. New Marathi film ‘Babanchi Shala‘, presents the story written by Neela Satyanarayan, a former IAS officer from Maharashtra. Directed by R.Viraj, who gave us variety of films like ‘Shyamche Vadil ‘, ‘Sangharsh‘ and ‘Vajlach Pahije Game …’ the film is inspired by V.Shantaram’s memorable film ‘Do Ankhen Barah Haath‘ made in 1957. The only difference is that in the old film, the Jail warden tries to rehabilitate the dangerous prisoners released on parole, while in the latest film, the Jailer goes out of his way, to rehabilitate those prisoners, who are not hardened criminals, but have committed a crime for the first time.
The story of this film revolves around Mahipat Ghorpade (Shashank Shende) who murders his nagging wife, who keeps on abusing him, for spending money on educating their only little daughter Sonali( Gauri Deshpande). One day, when his wife with the support of his mother in law, enter into an argument over the same issue, Mahipat locks his wife inside a room and murders her. He later repents his mistake, as he is taken to custody. After going to Jail, Mahipat has to leave his little daughter behind, at the mercy of others, who ill treat her. Sonali, later undergoes a trauma. But, she timely receives helping hand from a social worker Neeta Satam ( Chhaya Kadam), who persuades Jailer Shrikant Jamkhede(Sayaji Shinde), to arrange a meeting between father and daughter, after almost six years.
Initially, reluctant to accede to such a request, the Jailer and his wife ( Aishwarya Narkar) face a strange happening in their own life too. And, this changes the outlook of the Jailer. He not only tries to understand the trauma that Mahipat undergoes, but also the situation faced by few other prisoners in his jail and their family members. He submits a plan to Home Minister, through social worker Neeta Satam; about his scheme( Babanchi Shala) to rehabilitate such prisoners. But, it gets rejected. Going out of his way, he plans to implement his plan, in his own way. He partly succeeds in it. But, one of the prisoners, foils his plan, resulting into inquiry against Jailer and Neeta Satam .When the jailer is suspended, he continues with his good work with the help of the social worker, in extension of her services.
The film sends across a good message to the society, which in general, is not ready to accept the children and relatives of such prisoners, with any favors. Through different characters and emotion filled sequences in this film, the writer and the director have shown, how the life of family members also gets affected. Good presentation of screenplay, well suited dialogues to all the characters and above all wonderful performances by Sayaji Shinde, Shashank Shende, Chhaya kadam, Kamlesh Sawant and others, make this film a worth watch.
To nullify the effect of seriousness of the film’s subject , the director has cleverly offered some humor filled dialogues to Kamlesh Sawant, who plays one of the jail inmates, Babu Sakpal. Music by Soham Pathak & Neela Satyanarayan is apt, to meet the requirement of the subject. Don’t compare this film with V.Shantaram’s ‘Do Ankhen Barah Haath’, as it has offered something more, to make the audience think, in terms of reforms in the jail. All the prisoners are not terrorists. Majority of them are guilty of crime committed by them, for the first time. And therefore, the rehabilitation of their relatives, during their jail sentence, would help in contributing something to the society.