Rege (रेगे )
Genres: Thriller, Drama
Rating: ★★★
Censor: U
Duration: 130 min.
Studio/presenter: Ravi Jadhav, ARD Entertainment
Producer(s): Abhijit Panse Reels, The Artbeat Innovations
Executive Producer: Ratnakant Jagtap
Director: Abhijit Panse
Writer: Abhijit Panse
ScreenPlay: Abhijit Panse
Dialogues: Pravin Tarde, Abhijit Panse
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Cast & Crew
Executive Producer: Ratnakant Jagtap
Director: Abhijit Panse
Associate Director: Ravindra Karmarkar, Shivkumar Parthasarathy
Writer: Abhijit Panse
ScreenPlay: Abhijit Panse
Dialogues: Pravin Tarde, Abhijit Panse
Lyrics: na
Music: Avdhoot Gupte
Playback Singer: na
Cinematographer (DOP): Mahesh Limaye
Editor: Dinesh Poojari
Starcast: Aroh Welankar, Santosh Juvekar, Pushkar Shotri, Mahesh Manjrekar, Pravin Tarde, Anant Jog, Uday Sabnis, Ramesh Pardeshi, Viju Mane
Costumes: na
Makeup: Vikram Gaikwad, Santosh Gayke
Sound : na
Background Score: na
Choreographer: Umesh Jadhav
DI, VFX: na
D.I. Colourist: na
Promos: na
Music Label: na
Publicity Designs: na
P.R.O.: na
Distributor : na
Synopsis
‘Rege’ : The Marathi movie ‘Rege’, is about how vulnerable today’s youngsters are, how they get attracted to the glamor of underworld and eventually get trapped in it. High-profile cops trying to reach the top by eliminating the anti social elements, in turn, working against their own colleagues and system.
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Review
Sachin Tendulkar releases Music of ‘Sat Na Gat’
Now, free from IPL T20, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar is finding his time for family members. On Friday evening, the little master was present as a chief guest, to release the Music of Devisha film’s new Marathi film ‘Sat Na Gat’, which is based on the novel written by Rajan Khan. Incidentally, Sachin’s brother Nitin Tendulkar is making his debut as a lyricist through this film; and hence it was a happy occasion for Tendulkar family. Ms. Anjali Tendulkar wife of Sachin, was also present for this function, held at Rangasharada, Bandra.
Sat Na Gat Marathi Movie
[ Photo Caption: Sachin Tendulkar (centre) releasing the Music Album of the film in presence of the team of the film. .To his right is brother Nitin and to his left is Abhijit Gholap ]
‘Sat Na Gat’ is set on the backdrop of a peaceful and beautiful village, during the period of early 90s. The happening of a shocking event in this story, shows how it gets the political and social importance. ‘Sat Na Gat’, which is produced by Sai Shankar Films, is being presented by successful Industrialist Abhijit Gholap’s Devisha Films. ‘Sat Na Gat’ will be the third film to be released under their banner, after award winning film ‘Deool’ and ‘Baharatiya’. The film stars Mahesh Manjrekar in the role of a controversial Police officer, along with Bharat Jadhav playing a committed Journalist. Pakhi Hedge plays the leading lady in this film, with Sayaji Shinde in supporting cast. The film is directed by Raju Parsekar.
The first look of the film was also released during this function. On this occasion, Mr. Abjijit Gholap took this opportunity to felicitate five women namely :Padmashri Leela Poonawala-the first Woman CEO, Ms. Shravani Deodhar from Entertainment Industry, Ms. Veena Patil from Hospitality Services, Dr. Deepti Devbagkar from Medical field and Ms. Sucheta Kadethankar from Sports & Adventure field. All of them received their honours from Sachin Tendulkar. While speaking on the occasion, Sachin said that it was a special occasion for him, as he was attending a function to release a Music Album of a film, of which his brother was part of, as a lyricist. “We are all glad to witness his hidden talent. I am sure, this not the last one and there are many more occasions to come.” he wished.
After the function, Mr. Abhijit Gholap declared that ‘Sat Na Gat’ would be released on 5th July 2013. “We wish to observe this day( i.e 5th July) as ‘Women’s Felicitation day’ to respect all women in the society.” he said.
Mahesh Manjrekar and Avadhoot Gupte to direct Raees Lashkaria’s next two films
Raees Lashkaria, well known builder, promoter of Sports, social worker connected with healthcare and education from Mumbai; entered Marathi film industry as a producer through his debut film ‘ Swarajya -Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe’ with its launch on 10.10.10 and release on 11.11.11, seems to be believing in numerology a lot. ‘Swarajya ’ was a hit film with tall and handsome Rajesh Shrigarpure playing the angry young man, who later grabbed the role in a Hollywood film ‘Seal team Six.
Now on the 12.12.12 evening, he made official announcement of his next two films at Hotel Grand Hyatt, Santacruz, Mumbai in presence of media persons and special invitees.
After anchor of this function Samira Gujar invited him to the dais, she introduced him as a strong supporter of Mr. Raj Thackeray. Incidentally, Sharmila Thackeray, who was supposed to come for the function, was not present during the announcement ceremony.
However, Mr. Suresh Wadkar, who played the role of chief guest, wished Mr. Raees Lashkraia a grand success, for taking keen interest in the production of quality Marathi films. After the producer invited Mr. Mahesh Manjrekar , Mr. Avadhoot Gupte and his elder brother Aslam Lashkaria on the dais; he made two official announcements. The first was about Mahesh Manjrekar directing his next film ‘Samrajya’ based on political theme and the second was about Avadhoot Gupte directing another film ‘Short Cut’.
Both the directors signed for these films, appreciated the keen interest taken by Mr. Raees Laskaria in production of quality Marathi films. Both of them appreciated his debut film as a producer ‘Swarajya- Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe’. Now, all eyes on the selection of artistes for these two films. But, those spotted on the occasion were few popular Marathi artistes like Rajesh Shringarpure, Santosh Juvekar, Nirmiti Sawant, Hemangi kavi Dhumal, Swapnil Bandodkar and Sanjay Khapre. The director duo of Raees Lashkaria’s first film ‘Swarajya’-Vishal Ghag was busy making all arrangements for successful conduct of the function.
‘Mi Shivaji Marathe’ launched with Muhurat
Green Tree Presentation and Murali Lalwani produced new Marathi action comedy film ‘Mi Shivaji Marathe’ was launched recently at Parwani Studios, Charkop, kandivali in presence of special guest Actor film maker Mahesh Manjrekar. Present on the occasion were writer Murali Lalwani, director Charudatt Dukhande, actor Bharat Jadhav along with other artistes of the film – Ramesh Bhatkar, Vinay apte, Yatin Karyekar, actress Aparna, Deepal Dalvi, Shailesh Raje and others.
The story of this film revolves around a dashing, honest and sincere Police officer. Bharat Jadhav plays the title role. The film will have five songs on the music of Om Jha. The film’s editing will be done by Faizal and Imraan Mahadik and cinematography will be by the director himself.
‘Jai Jai Maharashtra Majha’ salutes Marathi culture
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Rating: na
Banner: Amanora, Sanjay Ghodawat Groups Producer: G. J. Creation Director: Gautam Joglekar Story, Screenplay, Dialogues: Gautam Joglekar Cinematographer: Ganesh Sankla, Ajit Raddys. Music: Yashwant Dev, K C Loy, Ajit Parab, Gautam Joglekar Cast: Mahesh Manjrekar, Mrunal Kulkarni, SIddharth Chandekar, Hemant Dhome, Aditi Govitrikar, Yatin Karyekar, Anusha Dandekar Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Gautam Joglekar has a strong background of film and stage; having been blessed by renowned personalities like Sai Paranjape and Arun Joglekar. As an actor, we saw very little of him; but as a film maker, he proved his ability through his first film ‘Pak Pak Pakak’. This time he strikes with something big in the form of ‘Jai Jai Maharashtra Majha’ a commercial Marathi film with music and Marathi culture as its base. The story of the film revolves around one of the leading tennis players in the world -Ashwini Stevenson (Anusha Dandekar), who is on a short trip to her motherland.
Having been deserted by her biological mother after her birth, Ashwini is adopted by her American mother from a children’s home in Pune, when she was just four years old. After attaining a celebrity status, she does not forget the culture of her birthplace and does her duty by donating 10% of her earnings towards charity. On her short visit to Maharashtra, she is a guest of Royal Mohite family from Kolhapur. They depute their young son Vishal (Hemant Dhome) to receive her and take her around tourist places on their way to Kolhapur from Mumbai. Among many other experiences, she is also invited as a special guest at the children’s home, where she has spent her early childhood.
During this short journey, Ashwini comes across a TV anchor (Aditi Govitrikar), a trainee Journalist- Rajat and his parents Dilip & Amruta Rege ( Mahesh Manjrekar & Mrinal Kulkarni). Ashwini is a fun loving young girl who loves to be part of the traditional festival and food in India, but Vishal is over protective about her food and is constantly accompanying her,during her short trip as her guide. He falls in love with her and Ashwini too loves his innocence. When Ashwini lands in Pune, she is shocked to discover the presence of her real mother around.
At the stroke of interval, the audience also becomes aware of the reality, besides Ashwini, who hates her biological mother for having deserted her, after her birth. Director Gautam Joglekar has tried to link the sequences with flashback, to reveal the truth behind the happenings of the past. The electronic media goes after the story, with the rival channels competing with each other trying to cover different angles. But, as the film’s story moves on, we find the breaks in the form of songs offering good music by four different music composers. The film concludes with a happy ending, when Ashwini gets ready to return back.
‘Jai Jai Maharashtra Majha’ has tried to offer a different type of entertainment with a new subject, with special emphasis on the culture of Maharashtra. Very cleverly, the director has tried to use his sponsors, during Ashwini’s trip to Pune, supported by a song; suggesting the importance of the historical city. With the inclusion of Mahesh Manjrekar and Mrinal Kulkarni, he has tried
to make the film emotion filled and at the same time he moves simultaneously with the fun loving pair of Hemant and Anusha.With the help of Siddharth, he has offered a character of a confused son, whose mother suffers from a neurological disorder. There are many other characters in the film, who form a big team to bring some relief to the serious subject.
What makes the film more interesting, is its presentation. There is no doubt that all the artistes have responded well through their respective characters. But, without the excellent camera work, perfect editing and good music, it would have turned out to be a serious tale. Both Mahesh Manjrekar and Mrinal Kulkarni have given their best performances, with a perfect understanding between them for every scene. Siddharth Chandekar displays his skills through his emotions as and when he got an opportunity. Anusha Dandekar is the perfect choice for the role of Ashwini, because of her accent and looks. She impresses in that role. But, it is Hemant Dhome, who in the lead role of Vishal Mohite has invited all the attention. He is simply superb!
The film does have few drifts; like inclusion of four friends of the hero and a song sequence with them and the unnecessary sting operation by a TV channel, involving Amruta and Ashwini . These are not ethical practices, at least by Marathi news network. But, barring these few scenes, the film has tried to present something sensible to the Marathi viewers. ‘Jai Jai Maharashtra Majha’ is a film for all, who respect Marathi culture.
‘Kaksparsh’ presents a realistic tale
4.0
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Banner: Great Maratha Entertainment L.L.P.
Producer: Aniruddha Deshpande, Medha Manjrekar Director: Mahesh Manjrekar Story: Based on real story for Usha Datar, re-written by Girish Joshi Screenplay: Girish Joshi Cinematographer: Ajit Reddy, Abhishekh Vijaykar Cast: Sachin Khedekar, Priya Bapat, Sanjay Khapare, Abhijit Kelkar, Manva Naik, Medha Manjrekar, Savita Malpekar, Vaibhav Mangle, Ketki Mategaonkar, Saksham Kulkarni, Kishor Raorane, Gauri Ingawale, Saiee Manjrekar Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Film maker Mahesh Manjrekar’s latest Marathi film ‘Kakasparsha’ takes you into pre independence era, to narrate the tale of Haridada (Sachin Khedekar) and his family living in a village in Konkan, Maharashtra. Those were the days, when girls used to get married even before attaining puberty. Haridada gets his younger brother Mahadeo (Abhijit Kelkar) married to one such girl Durga (Ketaki Mategaonkar) approved by his associate Balwant (Sanjay Khapre) who is also close to girl’s family.
Durga turns Uma after marriage, on entering the disciplined house of Haridada, whom she respects a lot, besides liking him for his behavior and personality. When Mahadeo passes away at young age, while studying his law; the responsibility of Uma lies on the shoulders of Haridada and his family. Uma mixes up well with Haridada’s wife and children of Haridada and takes care of them, as she grows up with them.
As per the rituals in Brahmin family, Uma is supposed to shave off her head; after her husband’s death; but Haridada opposes to the demand of the Priests from village headed by Upadhyay (Vaibhav Mangale). When Haridada’s wife passes away, everybody expects him to marry Uma ( Priya Bapat, who plays the grown up Uma) and Uma too is willing for the same. But, Haridada refuses to do so; as he is committed to his promise given to soul of the departed, during the rituals observed on the 10th day after Mahadeo’s death.
A time comes when Haridada stops talking to Uma and that hurts her. She stops eating. Everybody including Haridada’s elder sister, Haridada’s married children and younger sister all fail to persuade her. Finally, Haridada confesses the truth to Uma, stating as to why he kept himself away from her, though over protected her. He even agrees to marry her, breaking all his promises, only with the hope that she would give up her fast. But, the director tries to be realistic and ends the film, the way he wished to respect the original script of Usha Datar on the screenplay of Girish Joshi.
Shot on the backdrop of Konkan, Mahesh Manjrekar has perfectly selected the locations, including the traditional ancestral house, to create the atmosphere of the pre- independence era. Very cleverly, he has inserted the character of Balwant, who is also shown as a freedom fighter. The character of Upadhyay played by Vaibhav Mangale clearly suggests the dominance of orthodox Brahmins those days.
From beginning till the end, the film sticks to its subject, without any diversions and that makes the presentation more realistic. ‘Kakasparsha’ is the film for sensible film viewers. Fine performances from Sachin Khedekar, Sanjay Khapre, Ketaki Mategaonkar, Vaibhav Mangle, Priya Bapat, Abhijit Kelkar, Saksham Kulkarni and others, makes it more impressive. Music and background music have been handled well and so is the wonderful cinematography capturing all those natural moments.
Actor Sachin Khedkar deserves all the praise for his memorable performance through that lifetime role of Haridada. He gets a good support from all other artistes. Prominent among them are Sanjay Khapre and Vaibhav Mangle who have invited special attention.
‘Fakta Ladh Mhana!’ changes the face of Marathi films
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Rating: na
Presentor & Producer: Great Maratha Entertainment Company, Twinkle Group & Mirah Entertainment Director: Sanjay Jadhav Story: Mahesh Manjrekar Music: Ajit – Sameer Camera: Sanjay Jadhav Cast: Sachin Khedekar, Sanjay Narvekar, Bharat Jadhav, Siddharth Jadhav, Aniket VIshwasrao, Saksham Kulkarni, Manava Naik, Kranti Redkar, Santosh Juvekar, Vaibhav Mangle, Amruta Khanvilkar, Nagesh Bhosale, Hemangi Kavi, Bhalchandra Kadam Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
If you are under the impression that Marathi films cannot do commercial business as Bollywood films do, then latest Marathi film ‘Fakta Ladh Mhana!’ would prove you wrong. This action packed thriller Produced by Mahesh Waman Manjrekar and directed by Sanjay Jadhav offers all that, a hit Bollywood film posesses. It contains all that masala or in other words the perfect formula to make a film hit. Only drawback is that it is full of violence going on the lines of a typical South film. But, then we should not forget that most of the hit Bollywood films are a remake of those hit Masala South films.
Don’t be surprised if Mahesh Manjrekar decides to do a remake of his own film with top Bollywood actors prepared to play the five man army. Yes, you may give this another name to ‘Fakta Ladh Mhana!’, so much is the impact created by these five finest actors comprising of Bharat Jadhav, Siddharth Jadhav, Aniket Vishwasrao, Santosh Juvekar and Sanjay Narvekar from the Marathi film industry. They combine well to form that team under the leadership of their Don- Babubhai played by none other than Mahesh Manjrekar
In today’s existing situation, our own politicians have turned villains of the common man. Therefore, the film needed a strong character to perfrom the role of a shrewd Minister and his cunning brother. And, there wouldn’t have been a better choice than going for talented Sachin Khedekar and Sanjay Khapre respectively. The film begins with the sad state of affairs in a village, where politicain turned Industries Minister Patil and his brother with the help of local politician Kulkarni ( Vaibhav Mangale) make the lives of poor farmers miserable forcing them to sale their lands after the SEZ comes into force.
The only opposition comes from an ex-seviceman (Satish Pulekar) who refuses to bow down. He is murdered by Kulkarni and his men but his mentally challenged nephew is the mute witness against Kulkarni. His helpless uncle after witnessing the thumb rule, rushes him to the city in search of an elder nephew( Bharat Jadhav) of the ex-seviceman. Thus begins the revenge. The five man Army comprising of those sharp shooters belonging to the gang of Babubhai then proceed to the village. Some of them carry funny names like West Indies, Kanfatya and Paani Kam ( the little boy who serves tea to the five man army).
Not realising the power of the Minister, the Five man army confront directly with Minister’s brother and Kulkarni, only to be trapped by the shrewd Minister. When they are about to leave the village, another tragedy occurs, when they all swear to finish off the trio comprising of the Minister, his brother and kulkarni one by one. How they plan it and execute it is all that we see in the second part of the film full of action and thrills. As someone has rightly said, “Kuch Paaneke Liye kuch khona bhi padata hai”; the five man Army put up a brave fight against the corrupt system of the Minister forcing him to resign. The film does not end there, as a thrilling climax awaits for a sweet revenge.
Cinematographer turned Director Sanjay Jadhav has cleverly combined this action film with few scenes of emotions besides ccreating that required humour through Sanjay Narvekar and Siddharth Jadhav. Both of them time well with their dilaogues, during tense situations. Bharat Jadhav has a serious type of role having lost his love to Minister’s brother. But, his arguments with Aniket Vishwasrao ( Alex) are well knitted into the screenplay. Aniket plays the character of Alex with full commitment. Above all, it is Santosh Juvekar who impresses in the character of Salim. In one particular scene he tries to explain the difference between a sharp shooter and a terrorist and captures the attention of all.
Kranti Redkar finds a totally different role in this film and she does her part well. Sachin Khedekar, Vaibhav Mangle and Sanjay Khapre play the negative characters with authority. Hemangi Kavi has little for her share, but she plays that small role with total dedication. Amruta Khanvilakr and Manasi Naik have been used to offer a Lavani and Mujra respectively to complete the formula.Vishakha Subhedar finds that small role of Munnibai during the Mujra. The newcomer young boy plays the mentally challenged character well. Dialogues are well written but at many places the Censors have blown their whistle. Mahesh Majrekar as portrayed a Don in his own style.
The film is fast paced, hence not giving much scope to the viewers to question as to how the five man Army manage to move from their hide out to the city and back during the heavy police vigil. But, surprisingly, film has clearly hinted a revolution in this country, if the politicians cross their limits. On the whole, ‘Fakta Ladh Mhana!’ is a complete package filled with that required masala to draw sizable crowds. But, those who deslike violence and bloodshed , should keep themselves away.
Fakta Ladh Mhana ( फक्त लढ म्हणा )
Genres: Drama
Rating: na
Censor: U
Duration: 130 min.
Studio/presenter: Great Maratha Entertainment Company Pvt Ltd
Producer(s): Mahesh Manjrekar
Executive Producer: Umesh Shinde
Director: Sanjay Jadhav
Writer: Mahesh Manjrekar
ScreenPlay: Mahesh Manjrekar
Dialogues: Mahesh Manjrekar, Gopi Puthran
Official Facebook Page I Twitter
Cast & Crew
Executive Producer: Umesh Shinde
Director: Sanjay Jadhav
Assistant Director: Chandrakant Kanse
Writer: Mahesh Manjrekar
ScreenPlay: Mahesh Manjrekar
Dialogues: Mahesh Manjrekar, Gopi Puthran
Lyrics: Guru Thakur, Jitendra Joshi, Kaushal Inamdar, Pravin Kuwar
Music: Ajit – Sameer
Playback Singer: Dr Neha Rajpal, Swapnil Bandodkar, Avdhoot Gupte, Urmila Dhangar, Ajit Parab, Mahesh Manjrekar
Cinematographer (DOP): Sanjay Jadhav
Editor: Rahul Bhatankar
Starcast: Sachin Khedekar, Sanjay Narvekar, Bharat Jadhav, Siddharth Jadhav, Aniket VIshwasrao, Saksham Kulkarni, Manava Naik, Kranti Redkar, Santosh Juvekar, Vaibhav Mangle, Amruta Khanvilkar, Nagesh Bhosale, Hemangi Kavi, Bhalchandra Kadam
Costumes: Lakshman yallappa Gollar
Makeup: Henri Martis
Sound : Manoj Mochemadkar
Background Score: na
Choreographer: Umesh Jadhav
DI, VFX: Piksyon
D.I. Colourist: na
Promos: na
Music Label: na
Publicity Designs: Abhijeet Borkar
P.R.O.: Ganesh Gargote
Distributor : na
Synopsis
‘Fakta Ladh Mhana’ : na
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News / Article / Interview
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Movie Still(s)
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Review
The Making of ‘Haapus’
Producer Sanjay Chhabria seems to have mastered the Marathi film making and distribution process. Through his previous two films ‘Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy’ and ‘Shikshanachya Aaichha Gho’ he made it a point to touch the hearts of Marathi audience. It was either by way of presenting a strong protagonist defending himself against insults or making a middle class father raise his voice against the age old and corrupt education system; so that the audience could co relate themselves with these characters. As a perfect businessman he not only paid his attention on script and direction, but also focused on marketing and promotion, which was lacking in Marathi film industry. Recently, in a TV interview, Mr. Sanjay made it very clear that the script and director are the real heroes of a successful Marathi film. “ Unlike Hindi films, which become hit because of a hero, the success of Marathi film is more dependent on a good script and fine direction”.
After being associated with Mahesh Manjrekar, he now joins hands with Abhijeet Satam, who is making debut as a director through their jointly produced film ‘Haapus’. Abhijeet was previously associated with ad films.With this film, he also turns a co-producer. ‘Haapus’ made with a budget of 1.5 Crore, with almost an equal amount kept in reserve for the film’s promotion, both of them seem to be confident about their film’s success. As a producer, Sanjay did not only handle the finance and promotion side, but also kept himself creatively involved in every aspect of production, including presentation of the script. “Emotion is the key to be used very cleverly in the script of Marathi films,” says Sanjay. And, when we look at the script of ‘Haapus’, it reminds us about the difference of opinion between father and son, when it comes to making business of Mangoes.
The story of ‘Haapus’ thus revolves around Gurav family with the head of the family – Shivaji Satam selling their crop through a middleman as per traditional practice, but when his son develops a new variety of crop, he decides to sell the same with direct marketing. This is where the conflict begins between father and son. In comes a school teacher, who has moved into their village and the story takes a different turn. In the story, you also find the two twin daughters of Mr. Gurav, who add some hilarious moments into the screenplay for a change, with one of them in love with an auto-rickshaw driver, only to give another twist to the story. “ In all, it is a package of entertainment for one and all,” that’s what the director feels. The film has been shot at some of the natural locations in picturesque Konkan, busy streets of Mumbai and inside the Vashi fruit market, to give a more realistic look.
But, as quoted by them in the film’s campaign, to know what is ‘Haapus’ all about, you need to not only taste it, but also enjoy it. With popular stars like Shivaji Satam, Subodh Bhave, Makarand Anaspure, Madhura Velankar, Pushkar Shroti, Sulabha Deshpande, Mrunal Deshpande, Manasi Magikar, Vidyadhar Joshi, Swarasha Jadhav, Sunil Dev & Dnyaneshwar in the cast and well known singers like Avadhoot Gupte, Vibhawari Apte, Urmila Dhangar, Rahul Saxena, Amruta Subhash, Anjali Kulkarni, Anuradha Marathe, Suvarna Mategaonkar, Pranjali Barve rendering their voices on the music of Dr. Salil Kulkarni, the film has certainly raised the hopes of the viewers. Now, all eyes on 25th June, when the film has its grand release all over Maharashtra.
‘Lalbaug Paral’ – Realistic but Vicious
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Rating: na
Presenter: Dar Motion Pictures Producer: Arun Rangachari Director: Mahesh Manjrekar Screenplay: Jayant Pawar, Mahesh Manjrekar Music: Ajit – Sameer Cast: Satish Kaushik, Siddharth Jadhav, Ankush Choudhary, Veena jamkar, VIneet Kumar, sameer Dharmadhikari, Sachin Khedekar, Kashmera Shah, Ganesh Yadav, Karan Patel, Shashank Shende, Seema Biswas Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
One man’s nightmare is another man’s dream. The closure of Mills in Mumbai was a nightmare to lakhs of workers, but it turned out to be a dream for the owners, who sold their land making crores of rupees out of it in such deals. It was a big game played by Mill owners those days, with the support of government. Not much of attention was paid by the media , which only blamed the adamant Union leader for holding on to his demands.
28 years after this tragic happening in the lives of those lower middle class families, today a film maker dares to describe the inside story and aftermath. ‘Lalbaug Parel (Zhali Mumbai Sonyachi) directed by Mahesh Manjrekar projects various characters, based on the original script of Jayant Pawar, which highlights the consequences of this social issue, totally ignored by the Government. No wonder, after release of this film, the government has started taking steps towards rehabilitation of the mill workers and their families.
The film begins with a scene where a real life script writer (Ankush Chowdhury) showing his old house to his girlfriend from the terrace top of a multi story tower and narrating the tragic story of his family in the flashback. The audience is then taken back to 1982, to show how the shrewd Mill owners with the support of Government played their cruel game to exploit the poor mill workers. Mahesh Manjrekar as a film maker goes into all required details to highlight the after effects of the strike. He has skillfully shown the Politician- Mill worker nexus for the closure of mills; but has failed to define the role of the adamant Union leader, who was equally responsible for this indefinite strike.
The director has paid more attention on the spread of underworld network with the young children of these jobless Mill workers turning towards crime. He has also focused on the simple lifestyle of these Lower middle class people living in chawls those days. As a director, he has done a commendable job to place before the audience the reality, capturing many emotion filled scenes. However, in the process he has shown too much of bloodshed on the screen. At the end of the film, the character of Speed breaker who turns a sharp shooter moves scot- free (in the present time) after killing his own friend in front of his family members at a public place and then shooting point blank the son-in-law of the mill owner along with his security guards, in his plush office.
Looking at the performances of the artistes, Seema Biswas plays the role of Mother with simplicity, paying more attention on her body language. Shashank Shende as Mill worker –father, is a perfect choice. Both Sachin Khedkar and Vinay Apte as Union leaders do well ; but surprisingly the character of the Chief Union leader –Doctor, does not get much of scope, considering the major role played by him in the controversial strike. Satish kaushik as Mama in the neighborhood, borrows the voice of Mahesh Manjrekar for this Marathi version, while Santosh Juvekar dubs his voice for Karan Patel, who plays Naru -the younger son of this mill worker, who later turns a sharp shooter. Actually, Santosh would have been a perfect choice for this character. Siddharth Jadhav as Speed breaker ( His character name), plays the son of a Union leader in his own style.
Actress Veena Jamkar plays an important character of Manju- the daughter of the Mill worker. She plays her part with total commitment . Kashmira Shah plays Mami – wife of Satish kaushik. Her sex appeal has been used for a different reason in this film to create that cheap humour. Sai Tamhankar has been a waste in that small role of a flower vendor. Kishore Pradhan and Sameer Dharmadhikari look very natural as Mill owners. Music does not have much scope in this film backed with a serious theme. In all, ‘Lalbaug Parel’ is a good, realistic and hard hitting film except for the violence part, which has been stretched too much in few sequences.