All Talk and No Action

Source: Esakal

The extended weekend gave me a chance to catch up with Gabhricha Paus - a movie that has long been on my waiting list.

Gabhricha Paus deals with farmer suicides and affiliated social problems. Through the story of Kisna, a farmer hard pressed against nature's fury, Satish Manwar weaves a nuanced drama about hope and despair.

Despite covering a dark subject, the movie itself isn't depressing. Infact, black humour is one of its many highlights, apart from commendable performances and deft cinematography. 

Manwar also seems to be well versed with the subject and thankfully, refrains from dramatizing the plot.

With each passing movie, I have realised, more than the main plot, it is the sub plots or mini-stories that appeal to me. Take for example, the relationship between Ranbir Kapoor and Prem Chopra in Rocket Singh. Ditto for Imran Khan and Ratna Shah in Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na or the delicate friendship that unfolds between the kids in Masoom. 

Such stories bring out a film maker's understanding of finer details in relationships. Majid Majidi is a master in this space. Satish Manwar equally delights on this parameter.

As much as I would like to rave about the clever plot and the rustic look of the movie, I am sure that most readers haven't watched it yet.

Hence, I urge you to grab a DVD and set out for this engaging drama. Regional cinema may still hold some hope for cinema lovers.