‘Taptapadi’ sets the best example of a good period film in Marathi
 |
Rating: ★★★★
Studio / Presenter: Aryaman Publicity Producer: Sachin Baliram Nagargoje, Hemant Bhailal Bhavsar Screenplay, Direction: Sachin Baliram Nagargoje Cinematographer: Santosh Suvarnakar Music: Sumeet Bellari & Rohit Nagbhide Cast: Kashyap Parulekar, Veena Jamkar, Shruti Marathe, Neena Kulkarni, Sharad Ponkshe, Ambarish Deshpande, Ashwini Ekbote Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
Script plays a very important role in the success of Marathi films. And, when you come to know that the script of a Marathi film is inspired by Ravindranath Tagore’s story; obviously, there will be lot of curiosity about the film. Young film maker Sachin Baliram Nagargoje has dared to present this sensible period story, through his new Marathi film ‘Taptapadi’.
Set on the backdrop of pre independence days period, the film revolves around Meera (Veena Jamkar) who has been brought up by her paternal aunty and her husband (Ashwini Ekbote and Sharad Ponkshe) since her childhood, after the sudden demise of her mother. At her Aunty’s place little Meera becomes friendly with her cousin Madhav (Kashyap Parulekar) who is later sent for his higher studies to Pune. When Madhav returns after a long period, while doing his graduation in medicine; he develops intimate relationship with Meera and the relationship turns into their marriage.
Both live happily, till Meera has a miscarriage. Madhav and Meera shift to Pune, where Madhav is studying in medical college. Not understanding the growth of Glaucoma in Meera’s eyes, Madhav treats her for general irritation. In the process, her trouble aggravates, with poor vision. Finally, when Madhav’s medical college surgeon examines her and suggests immediate operation, it is too late. Meera turns blind. Her aunty, uncle, brother and father suggest Madhav to let her go along with them, so as to take good care of her. But, Madhav feeling the guilt of neglect, wants Meera with him. He takes good care of her.
One fine day, his paternal aunty Durvabai (Neena Kulkarni) arrives at his place, with a plan in her mind. She wants her own well educated niece Sunanda (Shruti Marathe) from Mumbai to marry Madhav. She even invites her to Madhav’s place. And, then begins the real drama. Though, Sunanda becomes friendly with Meera, the negative thoughts running in the mind of Meera makes her more uncomfortable and she displays her anger and frustration., After taking Madhav into confidence for second marriage, Durvabai leaves with her niece. But, destiny has something else to decide. The climax scene of the film, says it all.
Director Sachin Nagargoje has handled this sensitive love story very well. Having written the screenplay himself, he has been able to present the emotion filled scenes very well. Being a period film, he has cleverly avoided outdoor scenes. But, with the support of good cinematography by Santosh Suvarnakar, he has handled the intimate love scenes very well. Considering Ravindranath Tagore’s love for poems and keeping in mind his love for art; both music and art direction have been well executed in the film. The locations and use of bullock cart, horse carriage and the old styled car used by Madhav, clearly remind you about the old period. Singer Savani Shende, lyricist Vaibhav Joshi and music directors Sumeet Bellari & Rohit Nagbhide have done a good job.
However, the director hasn’t paid attention on miniature details of the make up of Meera, especially after she suffers burn injuries. The healing of wounds on her right hand and face, haven’t been followed in continuity properly. But, barring this small error, he has succeeded in presenting this film very well. Wonderful performances by all the artistes, makes the film more realistic. It is almost like listening to the story of Meera, who is also a narrator in this film.
No wonder, Veena Jamkar has put in her heart into the role of Meera. Even otherwise, she has always been a great performer; but, this role is something special for her. In the character of Sunanda, Shruti Marathe does look a perfect choice. She has played this bubbly cheerful Sunanda with complete understanding of the importance of her role. Kashyap Parulekar, has played his most difficult looking character of Madhav very well. He has cleverly displayed the quick change of emotions, at every important situation, be it, his guilt after his wife turns blind or his reaction while confessing the truth before his wife. In short, he too has proved his selection right.
In the role of Durva atya, Neena Kulkarni has once again proved that she is still the best; no matter whatever type of role comes to her share. The selection of Sharad Ponkshe and Ashwini Ekbote for their respective roles, is just namesake. At least Ashwini has two scenes to display her acting; but Sharad Ponkshe has been wasted, just as an onlooker in few scenes to his share. Ambarish Deshpande has done a good job, in the role of Meera’s brother, though he has little to his share. All others in the supporting cast, including the kids in initial part of the film, look very realistic in their respective costumes, suited to the era.
‘Taptapadi’ sets the best example of a good period film in Marathi; and does succeed in leaving an impact of its tale on the audience. It is certainly a worth watch.
‘Premsutra’ plays a new game of love
 |
Rating: ★★★
Studio: Kshitij Entertainment, Kathakaar Producer: Rajaram Parmar Director: Tejas Vijay Deoskar Music: Susmit Limaye Cinematography: Pushpank Gawade Cast: Sandeep Kulkarni, Pallavi Subhash, Shruti Marathe, Lokesh Gupte, Shishir Sharma, Ila Bhate, Pradeep Athawale, Prasad Pandit, Subha Khote Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
“Pure love is readiness to give everything, without expecting anything in return.” Sanjay Vijay Deoskar’s new film ‘Premsutra’ revolves around one such theme, which goes on to define love, in its own style. It revolves around a 35 year old Mine Engineer Anand alias Andy Joshi( Sandeep Kulkarni) from Mumbai , who is a bachelor and on a job assignment in picturesque Goa. Andy, is not serious about marriage and is more focussed on his career. He becomes friendly with a young local Christian girl Saniya( Pallavi Subhash) . Initially, it is a good friendship, which moves into bed, with mutual consent . And soon, Saniya gets pregnant.
Saniya does not expect much from Andy in return; but, does keep him informed that she would deliver the child; even if he doesn’t marry her. This scene takes place at a time, when his office colleague Sujit ( Lokesh Gupte) and his Boss’( Shishir Sharma) daughter Malvika( Shruti Marathe) are around. Malvika is for a surprise, as she is deeply in love with Andy and wants to marry him at any cost. But, Sujit who is after Malvika; doesn’t get any response. Back in Mumbai, when Malvika tries to come closer to Andy, he tries to keep her away. Now, desperate to teach Andy a lesson, Malvika marries Sujit; who is just looking for that opportunity to rise above in his career.
But, the Boss has different plans in his mind. In the post interval session, we find all that which we see happen in high society and big corporate houses. It is a real test of Andy, when he gets a tempting offer, with a trap. But, all goes well at the end. With this little less than 2 hour long film; director Sanjay Deoskar has offered a simple, but well presented subject.Having already seen two films during this year, on this topic of Prem( love); this film plays a new game of love.
Through the character of Andy, Sandeep Kulkarni has tried to depict the conscience in a typical upright person, with his fine performance in a romantic role ; while Lokesh Guopte through Sujit;’s role , has tried to show the attitude of a selfish person, with complete understanding. His character aspires to become richer, marrying Malvika for his double gain. In the role of Sania, Pallavi Subhash perfectly fits into the character of a young Goan girl, who is willing to take risk in her life, to find her real love. The model turned film actress simply looks stunning, in almost all the scenes and has performed with ease. Shruti Marathe does a fine job to present Malvika- a young female from high society, who feels that money can buy everything . Though she looks pretty in close up scenes, she is found overweight in all those different costumes she displays, in comparison to slim and fit Pallavi.
Restricting the important characters in the form of close relatives of Andy and Saniya, the director has also very cleverly shown the lifestyle of Goa, in comparison to conservative Mumbai culture. Shubha Khote represents a perfect Goan grandmother cum advisor of Sania, while Shishir Sharma plays a shrewd Company chief and selfish father of a demanding daughter.
The chemistry of Sandeep and Pallvi works well with in this film. Their happy moments have been picturised well on the backdrop of picturesque Goa. Shubha Khote has a limited role; but she does make her presence felt. Others in the supporting cast like Ila Bhate, Pradeep Athavale,Prasad Pandit and others have offered good support in their small roles.
Music by Susmit Limaye plays an important role in the film with songs suited to the situations; besides good photography and perfect sound effects. ‘Premsutra’ has therefore turned out to be a clean romantic musical film; for a change.
“Playing the role of Radha, is more challenging” – Shruti Marathe
She made her acting debut through Marathi serial ‘Peshwai’, while she was studying in 10th standard. Those days, she was studying in St. Mira’s School, Pune. Born in Baroda, Shruti Marathe came to Pune along with her family, when she was just one year old. Since then, she was brought up in this cultural hub of Maharashtra.
Though Shruti made her debut in Marathi films, through a small role in Shreyas Talpade’s film ‘Sanai Chaughade’, she had to wait for lead role in Marathi, till she was selected for the title role of Radha, in Marathi serial ‘Radha Hi Bawari’ now running on Zee Marathi. Recently, Shruti played an important role in ‘Satya Savitree aani Satyavan’ which was also a debut film of beauty queen Amruta Patki. In this film, Shruti played a role, which was totally in contrast to the glamorous roles she played in Tamil films in the recent past.
Incidentally, Shruti was part of three Tamil films ‘Indira Vizha’, ‘Naan Avanillai 2′and ‘Guru Sishyam’. In fact, her debut tamil film ‘Indira Vizah’ was based on a Hollywood film and was also a remake of Bollywood film ‘Aitraaz’. In this film, Shruti played the role of kareena kapoor, who defends her husband in court of law, being a lawyer herself. “This was a challenging role for me, but I enjoyed playing my character in ‘Naan Avanillai2.” says Shruti. Though Shruti has performed in three successful Tamil films and one Kannada film ‘Aadu Aata Aadu.’ now due for release; her talent was ignored by Marathi film industry. Only exception being ‘Satya Savitree Satyavan’, where her acting skills were clearly noticed in the role of a widow.
Marathi Movie world, spoke to Shruti, little before the telecast of her new serial ‘Radha Hi Bawaree’. Excerpts from an interview.
Q: Why only Shruti Marathe to play Radha in ‘Radha Hi Bawaree’?
A: How can I answer this question? You can ask this question to Virendra Pradhan, who found me suitable for this role. I can only say that I had given the audition along with many others, trying for this role. I am lucky to get selected.
Q: How important is this role for you?
A: It is a good challenging role. But, what makes me more happy is that, it is not only my character, which is important; but, the story of this serial is more interesting, offering enough scope to others.
Q: Who is playing hero opposite you in this serial?
A: He is Saurabh Gokhale.
Q: Having done your school and college education from Pune; you must have done lot of stage too ?
A: Actually, during my school and college days, I wasn’t that active with participation in competitions. But, I did perform in few experimental plays and one commercial play ‘Clean Bowled’. as a stage artist.
Q: Having experienced South films; how do you compare their films with Marathi films?A: South Indian films are all big budget films. They have big audience. In comparison, Marathi films are small budget films. But, in Marathi, the scripts are good. That is the biggest advantage you have with Marathi films.
Q: One personal question, Shruti. Any plans for marriage?
A: No, not at present. Now, I am focused on my acting career.
Captivating and realistic ‘Satya Savitri Aani Satyavan’
 |
Rating: na
Banner: Shree Yamai Pictures Producer: Shamal Parab Director, Editor: Sarvesh Parab Story: Rajiv Joshi Screenplay, Dialogues: Sanjay Mone Music: Aditya, Prafulchand Cast: Sachit Patil, Amruta Patki, Shruti Marathe, Ganesh Yadav, Anant Jog, Pradeep Welankar, Anand Ingle, Angad Mhaskar, Atul Kale.. Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke |
“No government power can be abused in different ways. As long as people bear it, the show goes on, using new methods. And women are nowhere behind, in the race of power.” Today, we find political leaders making mockery of the system. They are using the power for their self gain, taking the voters for granted. Their hunger for power, is bringing division in the party and at home front too.
The latest released Marathi film ‘Satya Savitri Aani Satyavan’ reminds all of us about the famous mythological tale of Savitri, who did her best to save her husband- Satyavan from the clutches of death. But, today , can we find a Savitri ? That’s what the film poses a question to the audience? The greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse. That’s what the film has tried to convey. Marathi cinema is certainly going for a change. The director of the film- Sarvesh Parab, has claimed that it’s an original story , inspired by the Marathi one act play ‘Smrutipuja’.
The film begins with the case of a double murder, that of a political leader Balkrishna Pawar (Ganesh Yadav) and his bodyguard Baban Jadhav (Rahul Gore) at a district place. As per the first hand report with police, Baban Jadhav first fired point blank at Balkrishna Pawar and watching this, his second bodyguard fired at Baban Jadhav, in retaliation. Kakasaheb (Pradeep Velankar), the MLA of this district, arrives back home, as Balkrishna happens to be his son in law. The thirteenth day rituals are on, at the bungalow, when a CBI officer called Sunil Gavaskar (Sachit Jadhav) arrives from Mumbai, to carry out special investigation in the case, on the orders of the Government due to the complaint lodged by Baban’s wife Supriya, who is a school teacher in a local school. After his interaction with the two young widows, the dynamic CBI officer is stunned with their beauty and has a reason to suspect a possible conspiracy.
As the officer progresses with his investigations, he doubts many suspects and the audience keep on guessing as to who could be the real culprit. Only reliable person the officer finds from among the local police is Inspector Ramesh Bansode( Atul kale), who remains by his side from the beginning of his investigation till end. Writer Rajiv Joshi and director Sarvesh Parab have very skillfully presented every character in this film to give a realistic look of the political situation in this small town called Aadgaon. It’s not that we have not seen such kind of films in the past. Only few years ago, we saw a political thriller ‘Made in China’. Now, this film goes on to show another suspense filled political murder mystery.
Every other character has an important part to play, be it the widows Sandhya Pawar & Supriya Jadhav, the politician Krishna Pawar, his bodyguards – Baban Jadhav, Sada kadgaonkar, Kakasaheb-the MLA, Annasaheb- the Vice president of District Committee, Foreign returned Milind Torgal or Inspector Phulpagar . Their characters are all well knitted into the gripping screenplay penned by Sanjay Mone; who has also written the dialogues, which are well suited to every scene.Amruta Patki, Shruti Marathe
The manner in which the director has presented the leading lady Amruta Patki, is commendable. The former Miss India and Miss Earth, has successfully made an appeal, with her presence on the screen. Gifted with good height and stunning looks, she impresses in the very first scene of her entry in the film. Amruta was very comfortable in that role and never gave any indication about her debut. Her walking style, body language and her smile; everything looked graceful. At the same time, Shruti Marathe another talented actress, made her presence felt, with her looks and spontaneity in every scene, she was part of; in this film.
Sachit Patil has found one more good role after ‘Arjun’ to prove his ability and he has done justice to his role. In fact, he looks a perfect match (with his slim and fit personality) for both the girls, with whom he has performed in the title track, shown at the end of the film, in Bollywood style. Ganesh Yadav is at his best in the flashback scenes. Anand Ingale shows his versatility, through the devious character of Inspector Phulpagar. Veterans Pradeep Velankar, Sanjay Mone and Anant Jog match very well in their respective roles of politicians. While, Kishore Pradhan plays a typical Government servant, Angad Mhaskar plays shrewd foreign returned young man aspiring his dreams silently. Hemalata Bane impresses through her limited role of Sona Jalgaonkar; but, it gave an impression that her role was edited, to give pace to the enthralling screenplay. All others in supporting cast, have done well.
Music by Aditya Bedekar & Praful is good, though there isn’t much scope for songs. But, the background score is appealing. Cinematography by A.K.N.Sabestian is noteworthy besides perfect editing by director Sarvesh Parab himself, using his past expertise with well known hit films to his credits. He has concluded the film very well in the climax. Looking at the efforts put in post production, technically speaking, ‘Satya Savitri aani Satyavan’ is a Captivating and realistic film, which is a worth watch.
Vinod Kambli makes his debut in Marathi film
Maverick cricketer Vinod Kambli, after his unsuccessful attempt in Maharashtra Politics, has now decided to enter Marathi films. Kuber Productions and Lokesh Movies presentation
‘Lagli Paij’ will be featuring Vinod in a different way, singing and dancing in an item song of this film for the first time. The song is written by Milind Shintre who is also the writer- director of the film and the music is composed by Abhijit Kavthalkar.
The song has Southern Star Shruti Marathe performing the item song with Vinod Kambli. The song contains cricketing terms like ‘T-20′ and ‘Yuvraj Singh’ etc. Asha Bhosle, Shankar Mahadevan and Usha Uthup have rendered their voices for the songs of this film. The film stars Mohan Joshi, Arun Nalavde, Smita Talwalkar, Satish Tare, Kishori Ambiye, Milind Gunaji, Priya Berde, Sunila Karambelekar, Samir Dharmadhikari, Raghvendra Kadkol, and Rahul Solapurkar. The film is due for release on 20thNovember 2009, all over Maharashtra in a big way.