Category Archives: Review

Vikram Phadnis returns with another emotion filled subject ‘Smile Please’

 

'Smile Please' Movie posters
‘Smile Please’ Movie posters
  • Genres:  Romantic, Drama
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 130 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Everest Entertainment
  • Producers: Nisha Shah, Sanika Gandhi
  • Director:  Vikram Phadnis
  • Writer:  Vikram Phadnis
  • Cast:  Mukta Barve, Prasad Oak, Lalit Prabhakar, Vedshree Mahajan, Satish Alekar , Trupti Khamkar, Aditi Govitrikar
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

Having made his debut as a director in Marathi film industry through an emotion filled drama ‘Hridayantar’ two years ago, renowned Bollywood Costume designer Vikram Phadnis has now returned with another Marathi film ‘Smile Please’. While in his previous film Vikram presented the marital crisis of a couple married over 12 years, yet glued to their brittle married life, in the present film he presents the trauma faced by the wife after divorce, while facing her teenage daughter, who hates her and lives with her husband.

Prasad Oak, Mukta Barve
Prasad Oak, Mukta Barve

Nandini (Mukta Barve) a divorcee, who is an award winning fashion photographer, lives with her father (Satish Alekar) and housekeeper Jyoti (Trupti Khamkar). On few occasions, she keeps meeting her ex husband Shishir (Prasad Oak) and her around 12 year old daughter Nupur ( Vedashree Mahajan) . But, her daughter’s strange behaviour with her mother, disturbs Nandini, who undergoes disturbed state of mind. Life is not easy for her , as she has to keep away from her busy work schedule. At this crucial period of time, a little before the stroke of interval a youngster Viraj ( Lalit Prabhakar) who is known to her father’s friend walks in their house, as a guest for few days. Viraj wins the trust of all members of the family, except Shishir, who hates him.

Mukta Barve in movie 'Smile Please'
Mukta Barve in movie ‘Smile Please’

So, in the post interval stage we notice how the efforts of Viraj help Nandini to face such a situation by regaining her self confidence . He also helps Nupur to understand her mother . In short, Viraj plays a good Samaritan. ‘Smile Please’ is a good effort from director Vikram Phadnis selecting a social problem which exists in families where both husband and wife have busy lifestyle. He has also shown the way but his screenplay really takes off only after the arrival of Viraj, however, the interaction between Trupti Khamkar in the role of Jyoti, the housekeeper and Satish Alekar (as Nandini’s father) , helps bring some humour into the screenplay.

Nevertheless, the performances by Mukta Barve, Prasad Oak, Satish Alekar, Lalit Prabhakar, Aditi Govitrikar and Vedashree helps give a realistic look to the film. Mukta Barve in particular has stole the show with her superb performance. Music has limited scope in this film, with two songs, but Rohan-Rohan have made their presence felt . Costumes designing done by Vikram Phadnis is no doubt worth appreciating, but above all, it is the photography by Milind Jog which impresses the most. Though this film deals with a serious subject, it is certainly a worth watch film for the sake of superb performances by the main artistes.

‘Miss U Mister’ offers emotion filled light entertainer

Miss U Mister Marathi Movie
Marathi movie ‘Miss U Mister’
  • Genres:  Romantic
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 130 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Mantra Vision and Third Eye Kreative Films
  • Producers: Deepa Tracy, Suresh Mhatre
  • Director:  Sameer Hemant Joshi
  • Writer:  Sameer Hemant Joshi
  • Cast:  Siddharth Chandekar , Mrunmayee Deshpande, Rajan Bhise, Savita Prabhune, Avinash Narkar, Radhika Vidyasagar, Hrishikesh Joshi, Deepti Lele
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

After directing  films like ‘Mangalashtaka Once More’,  ‘Mamachya Gavala Jaoo Ya’ and multi starrer ‘Bus stop’ writer- director Sameer  Joshi is back with his latest presentation ‘Miss You Mister’. Starring  Siddharth Chandekar and Mrunmayee Deshpande in the lead characters  of Varun and Kaveri  a newly married couple , who are working hard in their respective jobs, to purchase the office premises of their own to make Varun’s father (Rajan Bhise) happy, as he has lost everything in his business, due to heavy non repayment  of  loans.

Actress Mrunmayee Deshpande in movie- 'Miss U Mister'
Actress Mrunmayee Deshpande in movie- ‘Miss U Mister’

To earn more money, Varun signs  an 18 month contract with a UK company and proceeds to London. Both Varun and Kaveri find it very difficult to stay separately and are constantly involved in skype calls and whats app messages and videos. However, the latest technology is not enough to keep them strongly bonded. Some happenings create  misunderstandings between them. But, their love brings back Varun  on a short vacation mid way of his contract. Even after coming back, Varun has his own commitments to his parents and friends, which makes  kaveri more desperate and she decides to move to her parents place. Her only connect is her cousin Rucha( Deepti Lele) , who has also gone through a break up, as her would be prefers to shift to Delhi. The series of interesting happenings which follow, finally bring them together.

Siddharth Chandekar, Mrunmayee Deshpande 'Miss U Mister
Siddharth Chandekar, Mrunmayee Deshpande ‘Miss U Mister

Script writer and director Sameer Hemant  Joshi  has tried to present a light entertainer  which is filled with emotions. Through this film, he talks about the importance of proper communication and trust between a newly married couple .  But, at the same time he has tried to show that just expressing love for each other and constantly chatting over  phone or  video calls is not enough to  understand each other well. In short, he has focused more on how the long distance relationship takes a toll on the newly weds. The happenings in their respective offices and Kaveri’s interactions with Varun’s parents, with her own parents and also with Rucha are picturised very well in a humorous way At the same Varun & Kaveri’s  encounter with a  family friend cum counsellor ( Hrishikesh Joshi) has something worth  to convey to young couples. .  The director has conveniently avoided melodrama in the screenplay and has paid more attention on humour arising out of many important situations.

Miss U Mister Marathi Movie
Miss U Mister Marathi Movie

Through their respective roles, Siddharth and Mrunmayee have done full justice to their characters . Mrunmayee certainly finds better scope but both of them together have given realistic look to almost all the scenes including those intimate scenes filmed on them. Good support comes from  Rajan Bhise, Savita Prabhune, Avinash Narkar, Radhika Vidyasagar, Hrishikesh Joshi and Deepti Lele through their  respective supporting roles.  Kedar Gaekwad’s cinematography &  Sayali Soman’s costumes  makes this film more presentable. There isn’t any  scope for music, as the director pays more attention on his interesting screenplay. But, the apt back- ground music and effective  sound designing does invite the attention of the audience.

All in all ‘Miss U Mister’ is a worth watch film especially for young couples  and their parents.

‘Bandishala’ – Woman’s fight against the system

bandishala
  • Genres:  Drama
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 130 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Shantaai Motion Pictures
  • Producers: Swati Sanjay Patil
  • Director:  Milind Lele
  • Writer:  Sanjay Patil
  • Cast:  Mukta Barve, Sharad Ponkshe, Umesh Jagtap, Anand Alkunte, Ananda Karekar, Pankaj Chemburkar, Krutika Gaikwad, Pravin Tarade,
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

Films based on true stories have always invited the attention Marathi film lovers. And if such subjects are presented in a realistic manner, by taking the cinematic liberties, they are sure to win awards. Latest released Marathi film ‘Bandishala’ falls in this category. Having won several state awards prior to theatre release, there were big expectations from this film. And the makers of this film have proved that their film certainly deserved all the awards received by them till now.

Written by Sanjay Krishnaji Patil, the film revolves around a young dashing Jail Officer Madhavi Sawant (Mukta Barve) who tries to bring discipline into her jail by personally supervising all the departments and taking tough actions against the dreaded criminals involved in challenging her discipline, because of their political connections. Well aware of the corrupt practices of her superior Sudanrao Jadhav ( Shard Ponkshe) and his connections with politicians and Minister, she gathers all the evidences of their dealings.

Mukta Barve, Hemangi Kavi in Marathi Movie 'Bandishala'
Mukta Barve, Hemangi Kavi in Marathi Movie ‘Bandishala’

One night after returning from a ceremony along her family members, Madhavi’s car is attacked by five dreaded criminals, who kidnap and rape her. Totally shattered by this sudden horrible incidence, Madhavi tries to recover with the morale support from her husband Shekhar ( Vikram Gaikwad), but the kind of trauma she faces, during the court trial of the five accused of her rape, clearly shows how a woman is treated by the defence lawyer ( Ajay Purkar) in an attempt to prove the accused not guilty.

‘Bandishala’ is actually the voice of all such women in our country, who are fighting for respect in this male dominant society. Simply acquiring power in the job on merit is not enough for a woman. She needs motivation from higher authorities and support from sub ordinates to implement her plans. And, this is what the strong character of Madhavi is fighting for, in this film. What she is actually expecting from her colleagues, she finally finds from the efficient S.P. ( Prasanna Ketkar) and his team of honest police officers, who not only nab the criminals but also gather sufficient evidences against them.

Director Milind Lele has created that strong impact of a gripping tale through this film, but at few places, we find more drama in the court, especially the way the Defence lawyer argues and the Judge watching such scenes mutely. The Public prosecutor played by Savita Prabhune has not been given much scope to defend Madhavi. Nevertheless, wonderful performances by the lead artistes, gives more realistic look to this film. Mukta Barve is at her best. Good support comes from Hemangi Kavi in the role of Ruksana, whose all women small workshop is supported by Madhavi. In Madhavi’s sensible and supportive husband’s role Vikram Gaikwad has also impressed. Another best performance comes from Umesh Jagtap , who plays a dreaded criminal Raghu Farkate undergoing jail sentence and having contacts with politicians. There are many other artistes like Sharad Ponkshe, Madhav Abhyankar, Pravin Tarde, Asha Shelar, Ashwini Giri and others, who have offered good support. Superb cinematography by Suresh Deshmane is another highlight of this film. Music by Amitraj is just fine for the three songs in this film.

All in all, ‘Bandishala’ is a well presented realistic film with hard hitting dialogues .

‘Mogara Phulalaa’ emits the pleasant fragrance of mild humour

Mogra Phulaalaa Marathi Film Poster
  • Genres:  Drama
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 130 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Gseams
  • Producers: Arjun Singgh Baran, Kartk D Nishandar
  • Director:  Shrabani Deodhar
  • Writer:  Shrabani Deodhar
  • Cast:  Swapnil Joshi, Sai Shakti Anand, Neena Kulkarni, Chandrakant Kulkarni, Sandeep Pathak, Suhita Thatte, Anand Ingle, Samidha Guru
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

During the 70s film makers like Hrishikesh Mukherkee and Basu Chatterjee offered some quality films generating mild humour, very successfully through their gripping screenplay. Perhaps inspired by the films of these two film makers, national award winning Marathi film maker Shrabani Deodhar has tried this experiment in Marathi through her latest released film ‘Mogara Phulala’. And well suited to the title of her film, she has successfully presented this film to emit the pleasant fragrance of mild humour.

Very effectively director Shrabani Deodhar tells you the emotional bonding between a 30+ typical most obedient ‘mama’s boy’ Sunil Kulkarni ( Swapnil Joshi) and his possessive mother ( Neena Kulkarni) . The dominating mother whose younger brother in law and elder son have married the girls of their choice, after her husband’s death, wants her younger son to marry the girl of her choice. And Sunil who is a software engineer does what his mother feels right for him.

Marathi movie 'Mogra Phulalaa'
Swapnil Joshi and Neena Kulkarni, Marathi movie ‘Mogra Phulalaa’

But, after rejecting about 38 marriage proposals, Sunil finally falls in love with a woman Shivangi Gupte ( Sai Deodhar) who is almost of his age, but is a widow, who has a little daughter Reva. Shivangi works as Asst ,Manager in a co-op Bank , where Sunil along with his friend Mayur ( Sandeep Pathak) have set up a software programme for them. Both come closer, when Sunil’s bachelor uncle who is a and dramatist visits the joint family and happens to stage a play for Shivangi’s bank for competition, on the insistence of bank manager Dhaigude( Anand Ingale). When Sunil’s mother comes to know about the closeness of her son with Shivangi, she plays a game to separate them. Finally, all goes well after sequence of interesting happenings .

Mogara Phulalaa’ is certainly a well made film to keep the audience engaged from start to finish. The appealing story of Shrabani Deodhar supported by crisp screenplay and dialogues by Sachin Mote makes ‘Mogara Phulala’ more presentable . Music is not the base of this film, but Rohit Raut’s music is appealing for two background songs. Equally good is Amol Gole‘s superb photography. But, what appeals the most are the excellent performances of Marathi Superstar Swapnil Joshi ,popular TV star Sai Deodhar , veteran actress Neena Kulkarni , Chandrakant Kulkarni and a big team of artistes in supporting roles. Director Shrabani Deodhar has extracted the best out of all these versatile artistes, in almost all the scenes. All in all ‘Mogara Phulala’ has turned out to be a worth watch film for all.

‘Judgement’ presents daughter’s intense fight against her criminal father

Judgement Marathi Movie Poster
  • Genres:  Drama
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 130 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Jyotsna Film Productions
  • Producers: Dr. P R Khandare
  • Director: Sameer Ramesh Surve
  • Writer: Neela Satyanarayan
  • Cast:  Tejashri Pradhan, Mangesh Desai, Madhav Abhyankar, Satish Salagare, Shweta Pagar, Pratik Deshmukh, Mahendra Teredesai
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

In the past, we have seen many cases of injustice on women fought in the court of law. Through the latest Marathi film ‘Judgement‘ you will see a unique case, where a daughter takes on her own father who brutally murders her beloved mother, only because she is not able to give him a baby boy. Little Rujuta is the only eyewitness to this ghastly murder of her Mother Neha( Shweta Pagar) by her high profile IAS officer father Agnivesh Satam ( Mangesh Desai) from Ratnagiri District.

Marathi film ' Judgement'
Mangesh Desai, Tejashree Pradhan Marathi film ‘ Judgement’

Appa ( Madhav Abhyankar) who is well aware of the motive of his son in law in murdering his daughter, takes away his two little grand daughters to Mumbai where he lives his retired life. He wants his elder grand daughter Rujuta to keep quiet and not to speak about the truth to anyone and therefore the case of Neha’s death is closed, calling it an accidental death.

15 years later we find the two daughters of Neha grown up as well educated professionals. While elder daughter Rujuta ( Tejashree Pradhan) practices law, the younger Anayata( Shalaka Apte) practices in a counseling centre as an assistant to a psychiatrist. Rujuta, who is not able to forget the brutal murder of her mother, is now all set to take the revenge against her father, by reopening the case. It’s not an easy battle as Agnivesh is a very influential person, having remarried and having a son. But, determined and fearless Rujuta takes up the challenge to prove her father a cold-blooded murderer.

Tejashree Pradhan in Judgement
Tejashree Pradhan in Judgement

How she fights the battle in court and how she manages the witnesses against him, is presented very effectively by director Sameer Surve through the gripping screenplay of this film. Every artiste in this film has given the best. And that is the plus point of this film. Versatile actor Madhav Abhyankar does very well through his limited role, while Mangesh Desai with his negative character has been impressive. The best comes from Tejashree Pradhan, who has been able to express her emotions very well through her central character. ‘Shree Partner’’fame Shweta Pagar has played the role of Neha with total conviction, while excellent support also comes from Shalaka Apte and Pratik Deshmukh.

Music doesn’t find much scope in this film, but still two songs in the background are well suited to the screenplay. Cinematography and editing work is handled with perfection. There are few lapses in this film, like showing the Appa played by Madhav Abhyankar almost of the same age even after 15 years, while Mangesh Desai is shown much older with his slow walking style in bent position after the same time period. However, barring these few minor lapses, ‘Judgement‘ is Certainly, a worth watch film. The good thing about this film is that it has respected the original story of Neela Satyanarayan by not deviating from the original subject.

‘Rampaat’ attempts a dream seller mixed with emotions

Rampaat Marathi Film Poster
  • Genres:  Comedy
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 131 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Zee Studios, Athaansh Communications
  • Producers: Mangesh Kulkarni (Zee Studios), Meghana Jadhav
  • Director: Ravi Jadhav
  • Cast:  Abhinay Berde, Kashmira Pardeshi, Anand Ingale, Vaibhav Mangle
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

Ravi Jadhav who directed Marathi films like ‘Natarang’, ‘Balgandharv’, ‘Balak Palak’, ‘Time Pass 1  & 2′‘Bioscope’, ‘Banjo’ and ‘Nude’ is back again with his latest offering in the form of ‘Rampaat’.  Through this film,  Ravi Jadhav attempts something different in the form of a dream seller which is mixed with emotions. We are all aware that Mumbai has become a main attraction for many aspiring youngsters who come to this place to make a career in acting. Some come with the support of their family, while others just run away from their house to try their luck.
Rampaat Marathi Movie Cover Poster New Image

‘Rampaat’ presents the struggle faced by two such youngsters Mithun ( Abhinay Berde) from Solapur and Vijaya alias Munni ( Kashmira Pardeshi) who leave their respective homes with big hopes to try their luck in the tinsel world of Mumbai. Though Mithun comes with the blessings of his mother, Munni flees against her Wrestler father’s wish, who wants his daughter to turn a wrestler. Both meet during audition and face the first worst experience . Dejected, they come across a stranger Fatafat (Kushal Badrike) who turns a good Samaritan for both the youngsters. But, that’s not enough for them, as much is expected from them in this good-bad world of entertainment.
Rampaat Marathi Film Poster

How they face this struggle period and how they find their way towards success, is what director Ravi Jadhav has tried to show through this film. In the process, he has certainly extracted the best from the young lead pair and they too have responded with commitment. For Model turned actress Kashmira this has turned out to be a good debut in Marathi. Even those in the supporting cast, like Priya Berde as Mithun’s mother and Abhijit Chavan as Munni’s father, Kushal Badrike in the role of Fatafat have lent good support. There are many more, who have obliged through their short special appearance. But, is that all enough to present a quality film? And the answer is, ‘to a certain extent, Yes’. The music is just fine but costume designing is good.

But, there was much more expected from director like Ravi Jadhav, who has however limited his idea to show only the reality i.e. ‘All that glitters is not Gold’. But, he delivers a very good message in concluding part, i.e. ’What the Nature has given, we need to reciprocate.’

‘Kaagar’ attempts a conventional love story on the backdrop of Power politics

Kaagar Marathi Film Poster
  • Genres:  Drama, Thriller
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 131 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, Udaharanarth Nirmit
  • Producers: Viacom 18 Studios, Sudhir Kolte, Vikas Hande
  • Director: Makarand Mane
  • Cast:  Rinku Rajguru, Shubhankar Tawde, Shashank Shende, Shantanu Gangane, Umesh Jagtap, Suhas Palshikar
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke.

Politics has always been a favourite subject of Marathi films since the time ‘Saamana‘ was released in the 70s. Directed by Jabbar Patel the film skilfully dramatized the conflict of wills between a small-town political racketeer and a morally upright schoolteacher. It had talked shown the power of sugar co-operatives of Maharashtra. Then in 1998, we saw ‘Sarkarnama‘ directed by Shrabani Deodhar on two political rivals. Both ‘Saamana‘ and ‘Sarkarnama‘ became famous for the powerful performances of Dr. Shreeram Lagoo & Nilu Phule (Saamana) & Dilip Prabhavalkar and Yashwant Dutt (Sarkarnama).

Marathi Movie 'Kaagar' Review
Rinku Rajguru, Shubhankar Tawde, Shashank Shende, Suhas Palshikar Marathi movie ‘Kaagar’

Now, writer-director Viju Mane has presented his latest Marathi film ‘Kaagar‘ on the backdrop of a small town Virainagar in Maharashtra, where we find a middle-aged school teacher, with higher connections trying to gain power through his choice of candidate. How he finally succeeds in getting his own young daughter into this political fight for survival, is what the film is all about. To succeed in his mission, Guruji (Shashank Shende) entrusts the most difficult job to his trusted so-called left hand Yuvraj (Shubhankar Tawde) a software Engineer from his small town. Yuvraj agrees to do anything for Guruji, as he trusts him and is also madly in love with his young college going daughter Rani(Rinku Rajguru).

Rinku Rajguru and Shubhankar Tawde Photo
Rinku Rajguru and Shubhankar Tawde Marathi movie ‘Kaagar’ still

As the sequence of events unfolds, Yuvraj- Rani love story takes a back seat and we find Guruji showing his true colours like a typical filmy villain to fulfill his dream. The film fails to present a strong conflict, due to limited content and lack of well-planned screenplay. As a result, this film has turned out to be neither a well-built love story nor an action-filled political thriller. Though Shashank Shende finds a lead role of a Guruji turned politician, he does not perfectly fit into that kind of canny character. Suhas Palshikar has also been wasted in that limited character of Guruji’s political rival from the same party. His character should have been stronger to show the conflict. Instead, more attention has been paid to Guruji’s changing political games, according to time. Except for one background song, the other song a Qawwali does not go well with the screenplay. Moreover, in the absence of renowned actors, the film fails to capture the attention of the audience.

If the filmmakers thought that using the card of Rinku Rajguru, they would invite all the attention towards the film, their assumption has gone wrong. As an actress, she has been typecast with the same style of dialogue delivery and her typical expressions noticed in ‘Sairat‘. Perhaps, she has her own limitations. In the role of Yuvraj, Shubhankar Tawde is fine but here once again, the protagonist in his character hasn’t been exploited much. In the supporting cast, Vitthal Kale as Bhavdya, Shantanu Gangane as Bhaiyasaaheb and Umesh Jagtap as Police inspector Nikam have offered good support. The work done by location sound recordist and sound engineer has been worth appreciating. All in all, there is something really missing from this love story set with a political backdrop.

‘Wedding Cha Shinema’ offers quality entertainment

Wedding Cha Shinema Marathi Film Poster
  • Genres:  Comedy, Drama
  • Censor: U
  • Duration: 139 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Everest Entertainment
  • Producers: Gerua Productions, PESB
  • Director: Dr.Saleel Kulkarni
  • Cast:  Mukta Barve, Bhau Kadam, Shivaji Satam, Sankarshan Karhade, Rucha Inamdar, Shivraj Waichal, Alka Kubal-Athalye, Praveen Tarde, Ashwini Kalsekar, Aadesh Aware, Yogini Pophale, Pranit Kulkarni, Tyagaraj Khadilkar, Prajakta Hanamghar
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke.

Over the years, we have seen many film makers trying different ideas to entertain the audience with a message. If the film maker is able to keep the audience engaged into his presentation, the film attains success. Latest released Marathi film ‘Wedding Cha Shinema’ presented by Everest Entertainment and directed by debutant writer-director Dr. Saleel Kulkarni has met with all these requirements to offer quality entertainment.

Marathi movie 'Wedding Cha Shinema'  Review
Bhau Kadam, Rucha Inamdar, Mukta Barve, , Shivraj Waichal, Pravin Tarde, Marathi movie ‘Wedding Cha Shinema’

The film‘s subject deals with the new trend of offering a contract to event management company for making a film on the pre-wedding rituals, which also include shooting of romantic scenes of couple and interviews of all those near and dear ones to the couple. Obviously, the Sangeet ceremony is also a part of such a film. We have had the glimpses of it in the past movies like ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun‘ in Hindi and ‘Mumbai Pune Mumbai-2‘ in Marathi. However, ‘Wedding Cha Shinema‘ presents the coming together of two well to do families from two different regions of Maharashtra with diverse lifestyles.

Pravin Tarde,MuktaBarve, BhauKadam in Movie 'Wedding cha Shinema'
Pravin Tarde,MuktaBarve, BhauKadam in Movie ‘Wedding cha Shinema’

While the bride Pari (Rucha Inamdar) and her parents( Sunil Barve & Ashwini Kalsekar) belong to Mumbai and are high profile medical practitioners, bridegroom Prakash ( Shivraj Waichal) and his parents( Shivaji Satam & Alka Kubal) belong to rich farmer’s family owning acres of farmlands and a huge Mobile shop in Saswad in Pune district, known for large fruit plantations. Prakash and Pari first meet at Prakash’s mobile shop when Pari after passing her MBBS is posted as an intern in a hospital in Saswad. With subsequent meetings, love happens between them and it is Pari who takes the lead to propose Prakash after noticing his shyness to express his love.

Marathi movie 'Wedding Cha Shinema'
Pravin Tarde, Mukta Barve & Bhau Kadam in Marathi movie ‘Wedding Cha Shinema’

When the families of both agree for their marriage, incomes Urvi( Mukta Barve) the creative director along with her two assistants a DOP (Bhau Kadam) and a choreographer (Tyagraj Khadilkar) to shoot the wedding film on behalf of the event manager Raja (Sunil Abhyankar). During the course of this shooting schedule at Saswad and Mumbai and during their journey Urvi captures some misunderstandings between the couple and she becomes very close to the bride Pari while capturing her emotions.

The entire film’s screenplay has turned entertaining with humour filled scenes and well-written dialogues. Besides the lead couple and above mentioned characters, there are others like Prakash’s elder brother ( Sankarshan Karhade) and his sister in law ( Yogini Pophale), sister ( Prajakta Hanamghar) brother in law from Baramati ( Pranit Kulkarni) and last but not the least his close friend Mac( Pravin Vitthal Tarde) who have filled in energy with their good performances into this film’s entertaining screenplay. Rucha Inamdar has succeeded in portraying the character of Pari with bubbling enthusiasm. In fact, she has perfectly fitted into that role.

The music director turned writer-director Dr. Saleel Kulkarni makes his presence felt through every important scene in this film, especially while showing the confusion and chaos sprinkled with emotional highs and lows in the minds of the couple, amidst preparations for the wedding. Very cleverly he has shown the contrast between the busy Mumbai lifestyle with less communication and the happy and friendly lifestyle of Saswad people. Technically it is a well-presented film with good music, with two nicely picturised songs. All in all ‘Wedding Cha Shinema‘ is certainly a good entertaining film for all.

‘Sur Sapata’ – Just an average sports based film

Sur Sapata Marathi Movie Poster
  • Genres:  Drama
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 130 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: Lade Bros Films Pvt Ltd
  • Producers: Jayant Lade
  • DOP: Vijay Mishra
  • Director: Mangesh Kanthale
    Cast: Upendra Limaye, Hansraj Jagtap, Yash Kulkarni, Jeevan Karalkar, Chinmay Sant, Chinmay Patwardhan, Rupesh Bane, Suyash Shirke, Sharayu Sonawane, Ninad Tambade
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke.

Sports based films are not new to Marathi cinema. However, more than Marathi film industry, such films have done good business in Bollywood. But, the efforts are on to offer such films with new subjects on sports in Marathi. The latest released Marathi film ‘Sur Sapata’ which is on the background of the game of kabaddi has been released this week. Set on the backdrop of a village in Maharashtra, this film focuses on one such District run School, which won the Inter School state level trophy in the game of kabbadi 25 years ago.

Marathi movie 'Kabaddi'
Upendra Limaye, Hansraj Jagtap & others, Marathi movie ‘Kabaddi’

Now, after 25 years, we find fresh talent in Kabaddi emerging in this school . But, they are all notorious boys and always involved in punishable acts. Time comes when a school teacher ( Anand Ingale) reminds the School Head master ( Govind Namdeo) about the forthcoming State Level Inter School Kabbadi tournament and insists that their school team should take part in it. The head master is not happy with these notorious students and therefore he suggests that the team can be sent for the competition without the names of these seven students.

How these seven Kabbadi passionate group manage to participate in this competition and how they find a former kabbadi player from their own village ( Anna Bhosale) as their coach, is what the story of this film is all about. The actual competition begins only in the post interval session but before that the audience is introduced to each and every important character including the seven students, their interactions with teachers and their parents to highlight the characteristics of each one of them.

Hansraj Jagtap, Chinmay Patwardhan, Chinmay Sant, Yash Kuklkarni, Rupersh Bane
Hansraj Jagtap, Chinmay Patwardhan, Chinmay Sant, Yash Kulkarni, Rupesh Bane

The film does have a good subject and tries to emphasise on importance of Fair play in sports, but the presentation part is not so appealing, as it should have been for a good sports based film. In the first part a lot of time is wasted before arriving at the main theme. And when we see the actual competition in progress and the school team having lost the first two matches in the league stage, you find a former Kabbadi player who has won the same trophy for their school 25 years ago, turning up as their coach; to ensure their entry into finals. Generally, no such competition lasts for more than 10 days. So, the Coach Anna training the winning skills of this game in just a week’s time, fails to convince. The concluding scene of the film has been presented well.

Nevertheless, the performances of the artistes and the hard work put in by all the seven youngsters is to be appreciated . Some of them like Hansraj Jagtap, Chinmay Patwardhan, Chinmay Sant, Yash Kulkarni , Rupesh Bane have already proved their ability individually as child artistes in the past. Now, they combine together in a group, to display good team spirit. The entire film is on them. Though Upendra Limaye is projected as a hero, he finds better scope only in the 2nd half and he has given full justice to his character. Among the supporting artistes Govind Namdeo, Anand Ingale, Siddharth Zadbuke, Neha Shitole, Pravin Tarde and Sanjay Jadhav have done well, but the character of Sanjay Jadhav hasn’t been properly developed in the screenplay. Talented TV actress Abhidnya Bhave has been wasted in this film with an insignificant role. Music is just fine and the dialogues lack the required punch for such type of film. All in all, Sur Sapata has turned out to be an average film, which may be enjoyed by some ardent sports lovers.

‘Chhatrapati Shasan’ – a timely film with a social message

Chhatrapati Shasan Marathi Film
  • Genres:  Drama
  • Censor: UA
  • Duration: 125 min.
  • Studio / Presenter: A Prabodhan Films, Sawai Martand Films
  • Producers: Priyanka Kagle, Khushal Mhetre, Utkarsh Kudale
  • DOP: Sunil Borkar, Nishant Bhagwat
  • Director: Khushal Mhetre
  • Cast:  Santosh Juvekar, Makarand Deshpande, Kishor Kadam, Abhijit Chavan, Prashant Mohite
  • Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is considered as a great source of inspiration by people of Maharashtra. And therefore, today we find some of our politicians taking advantage of this situation, to exploit the sentiments of the people, when it comes to gaining or retaining their power. Best examples are caste politics and statue politics. But, is this what is going to benefit the new generation? This is what the latest released Marathi film ‘Chhatrapati Shasan‘ has tried to show with a timely message.

Marathi film 'Chhatrapati Shasan'
Santosh Juvekar, Makarand Deshpande, Kishor Kadam Marathi film ‘Chhatrapati Shasan’

This film narrates the principles on which the great warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj emphasized during his rule. The film does highlight some of the important issues, such as instead of worshiping symbols and idols or excitedly raising slogans like ‘Jai Shivaji’, it is important to understand the truth about the strategies of Shivaji Maharaj while establishing his empire through his wisdom, bravery and thoughts.

The first half of ‘Chhatrapati Shasan‘ film wastes a lot of time, explaining about the existing situation in villages where the so called leaders using Shivaji Maharaj as their strength, don’t know much about the great warrior and his ideology. But then, in the second half of the film we find the emergence of a protagonist, who wants to educate the people from his village towards progress, by starting their own company with active participation from one and all. There are many such scenes in the film, which hits out at the blind faith some people have in their leaders. But, at the same time, it shows how the mindset of young leaders can change, after realizing their own weaknesses.

Marathi film 'Chhatrapati Shasan' Trailer Image
Santosh Juvekar in Marathi film ‘Chhatrapati Shasan’ still

The film also reveals some of the facts, which made Shivaji Maharaj so popular among the people of all castes and religions. At the same time it also removes the misconception that Shivaji Maharaj was anti-Muslim, citing examples from history, how many of his close associates and loyalists were Muslims, who helped him win many battles. ‘Trust’ was the key in his administration, which helped him to achieve success and become the first Management Guru. This is what the film highlights This is what the film highlights, as the perception differs from person to person.

Director Khushal Mhetre who has also written the screenplay and dialogues of this film, has been able to show his strengths, particularly in the second half. Through all the four important characters, namely Ranjit ( Santosh Juvekar), Amar ( Prashant Mohite), Samar Sir ( Makarand Deshpande) and a wanderer ( Kishore Kadam) he has tried to present his subject and all these artistes have responded well. There is no scope for female artistes in the film, as it is a male dominated film with a serious subject. However, few characters like a so called Don played by Abhijeet Chavan and others try to generate some humour for a change. The inclusion of dance seemed to be unnecessary in the screenplay. Photography is good but the music did not appeal much. Kishore Kadam has impressed through his meaningful poems. All in all, ‘Chhatrapati Shasan‘ is a timely film with a social message.