3.5

Genres: Drama Censor: UA Duration: 120 min. Studio / Presenter: Landmarc Films, Naval Films, Blink Motion Pictures Pvt. Ltd Producer: Navalkishor Sarda, Vidhi Kasliwal DOP: Mangesh Gadekar Director: Sagar Vanjari Cast:  Shashank Shende, Chhaya Kadam, Gauri Konge, Vinamra Bhabal, Mrunmyi Supal Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

Just two weeks ago, there was a Marathi film ‘Cycle‘ which dealt with an object in the form of a Bicycle, which made its presence felt in the film with its abnormal looks. The film also showed how a person could be so possessive about this Bicycle and its sudden disappearance would make his life miserable. Now, director Sagar Chhaya Vanjari has presented somewhat similar kind of theme through his latest released film ‘Redu‘, which is also set on the backdrop of picturesque Konkan but during the period of early 70s.

‘Redu‘ which means a radio in short form in that region’s local language, plays an important object in this film, almost like a character, as those days( 1972) it was the biggest medium of communication and entertainment in almost every household in cities and towns but not in villages. In villages, it was like a luxury item. The story of ‘Redu‘ revolves around Tatu ( Shashank Shende) a hard working labourer in a small village, who did all odd jobs along with his wife Chhaya( Chhaya Kadam) to earn enough for the day to day living and meet the small demands of his only little daughter Saru( Mrunmayee Supal). One day, Tatu’s sister in law Suman( Gauri Konge) arrives from Mumbai along with her husband Baban( Vinamra Bhabal)to spend time with the family for four days. While returning home, Baban presents his portable Radio to Tatu as a parting gift.

The possession of this new gift makes Tatu more than happy as it not only brings happiness into his monotonous life but also becomes his prized possession. One day this prized possession goes missing , which makes Tatu restless. He suspects his nephew who had visited his place, besides suspecting theft. So, the search goes on, as Tatu cannot concentrate on his labour work. His wife Chhaya accompanies him in that search operation visiting nearby villages. What he discovers during this search operation is an unusual experience for Tatu. And, this is the best part of this film, which identifies it on the lines of world cinema.

Wonderful Performances by all the lead characters is the plus point of this film. Shashank Shende is at his best with good support coming from others. However, talented Child artiste Mrunmayee Supal hasn’t found much scope in her role of Saru. The slangs used in Malwani language are very well used in the dialogues of this film, to give a perfect local feel of 70s, besides creating humour. Fine Cinematography of Mangesh Gadekar captures the natural beauty of Konkan in 70s, while Vijay Gavande‘s music is very apt to every important situation in this film. Certainly a worth watch film for all those lovers of artistic cinema and especially those who belong to Konkan.