Rating: ★★★ Studio / Presenter: Flower Film Family Producer: Sagar Ballary, Hemal Shah Writer, Director: Rohit Joshi Dialogues: Aniket Wakchaure Cinematographer: Bijitesh De Music: Jasraj, Saurabh and Hrishikesh Cast: Ajinkya Deo, Shilpa Tulaskar, Kiran Karmarkar, Sunil Barve, Smita Talwarkar, Tanvi Kishore, Sameer Paranjpe, Saieel Shelar, Shashant Shende… Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

Sagar Ballary who made popular Bollywood films ‘Bheja Fry’ 1 & 2, has turned producer with his new Marathi film ‘Bhatukli’, allowing his assistant Rohit Joshi to direct this film on his own story. ‘Bhatukli’ explores the world of one such person Shrikant Deshmukh( Ajinkya Deo) ; who has achieved everything through his successful business; but, is still detached from his family.

Ajinkya Deo, Shilpa Tulaskar, Bhatukli, MovieThe film begins with the entire family of Shrikant Deshmukh, comprising of his wife – Janaki ( Shilpa Tulaskar), Mother( Smita Talwalkar), eldest son Aditya ( Sameer Paranjape), daughter-Bhargavi ( Tanvi Kishore) and the youngest son( Saieel Shelar), assembled at the holiday bungalow of Shrikant Deshmukh, at the request of Shrikant’s Personal Secretary Ramesh ( Shashant Shende). As they are all getting ready to celebrate the 51st birthday of Shrikant Deshmukh, he walks in a serious mood; to be welcomed by a huge birthday cake and a present from his youngest son. But, feeling annoyed with this gesture, he walks towards his room, without any reaction.

The family is soon joined by Shrikant’s brother Ravikant ( Sunil Barve),who is welcomed by Shrikant, offering him a drink. As the day progresses, we find Shrikant interacting with each and every family member independently, to understand them better ; but, finally has his say. His three children are seen uniting against his dominant attitude, till we notice the entry of a stranger, i.e. Shrikant’s old IIT’an friend Shantanu Atre, arriving to meet him on his short trip to India from USA, at the stroke of interval.

In the post interval session, we see the entire group proceeding for a day’s picnic, at a place of shrikant’s choice. Over here, we notice uneasiness of Ravikant, whom we notice making advances towards Janaki. It is only after the departure of Shantanu, that we notice the unfolding of the mystery. Actually, the film which has a unique story, has tried to present a mind game with the audience.

There are only two songs in this film, which have been used at the right places. Cinematography captures some beautiful outdoor locations very well. But, the highlight of the film are the performances from all the artistes. Very cleverly, they have been able to express their emotions, in every scene to their share. Ajinkya Deo looks a perfect choice for this role and he has done a good job. Shilpa Tulaskar, who has better scope, in spite of her character role of Shrikant’s wife, is impressive through her right expressions at every situation. Good support comes from Smita Talwalkar, Tanvi Kishore, Saieel Shelar, Shashank Shende and debutant Sameer Paranjape.

The film becomes slow, little before interval; but the entry of Kiran Karmarkar almost at the stroke of interval, brings some life into the screenplay, in the post interval session. There is no doubt that Kiran has found a good role in this film; and he has pumped in all his energy into the character, to make the film more lively. One wonders, as to why this talented actor hasn’t found suitable roles in Marathi films? As a writer-director, debutant Rohit Joshi, certainly makes his presence felt, through the screenplay of this film. However, few scenes in this film, are not very convincing, taking into account the target Maharashtrian audience. But, the presentation part is good.

If you are keen on solving this mind game, played by this film, watch every scene with total concentration. Check, whether you can find the clues , to avoid the unexpected surprise in the climax. So, give it a try. Certainly, a different subject for Marathi film viewers.