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Masala (Marathi Movie) Review

April 21, 2012 by Keyur Seta 7 Comments

Direction: Sandesh Kulkarni

Production: Umesh Kulkarni and Girish Kulkarni for Aarbhat Nirmiti, Pravin Masale

Story: Girish Kulkarni

Screenplay: Girish Kulkarni

Cast: Girish Kulkarni, Amruta Subhash, Mohan Agashe, Hrishikesh Joshi, Sneha Majgaonkar, Dilip Prabhavalkar

Music: Anand Modak

Rating: * * * ½

Plot: Revan (Girish Kulkarni) tries out a number of businesses but fails to find success in any. Due to this, he is forced to live a nomadic life in order to escape his creditors. Being an obedient wife, Sarika (Amruta Subhash) agrees with whatever her husband decides. Circumstances land the couple in Solapur, which is the hometown of Sarika’s cousin Kalyan (Hrishikesh Joshi).

Revan and Kalyan decide to join hands and start a business of selling groundnuts. Will Revan finally achieve success?

Review: Starting a business and running it successfully are two different things altogether. But if you keep your passion alive and learn from your mistakes, even fate will be forced to come by your side. This phenomenon is presented in Sandesh Kulkarni’s Masala in a light hearted manner that produces plenty of smiles.

As a writer, Girish Kulkarni continues from where he left in Deool (2011). He presents another subtle rural script that doesn’t go overboard and involves the audience right from the onset. Although there is not much romance shown between the lead couple, the interactions and actions between them clearly indicate the deep love they share hence making the audience feel for them.

Apart from this what keeps you entertained and provides humour is the inclusion of some interesting characters and incidents. The writer and director’s (Sandesh Kulkarni) efforts are seen in the realism that is oozed from the proceedings in terms of the conversations and truly realistic performances. Things do become a bit slow in the latter part of the second half. However, the climax makes up for it as the conclusion of the tale will move as well as delight you.

Top-notch effort is shown by M H Ramachandran as a cinematographer. A single take scene where Revan and Kalyan ride a bicycle together deserves special mention. Narendra Bhide’s background score is apt. Although there is not much scope for music, songs ‘Yan Madti’ and the title track go well with the film.

Girish Kulkarni gets into the skin of his character wonderfully. His portrayal of Revan is sure to fetch him lots of appreciation. Amruta Subhash deserves similar applause for playing Revan’s wife with realism. Mohan Agashe (as businessman Mehta) and Dilip Prabhavalkar (as a scientist) once again prove why they are respected names in Marathi cinema.

Hrishikesh Joshi and Sneha Majgaonkar play their part well while Dr Shreeram Lagoo excels in a cameo. Jyoti Subhash offers good support.

In a nutshell, Masala acts as a breath of fresh air that will be appreciated by the lovers of meaningful cinema. The movie has a chance of clicking at the box-office.

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Girish Kulkarni Masala, Marathi movie reviews, Masala Marathi film, Masala Marathi movie, Masala Marathi movie review, Masala Marathi review, Masala movie story

Baboo Band Baja (Marathi Movie) Review

April 15, 2012 by Keyur Seta 5 Comments

Direction: Rajesh Pinjani

Production: Neeta Jadhav, Rajesh Pinjani

Cast: Mitalee Jagtap Varadkar, Vivek Chabukswar, Milind Shinde

Music: Rohit Nagbhide

Rating: * * * 1/2

Plot: Jaggu (Milind Shinde) is a member of a local band in a remote village in Maharashtra. He wants his son Baboo aka Babya (Vivek Chabukswar) to join the same profession. However, Baboo’s mother and Jaggu’s wife Shirmi (Mitali Jagtap Vardkar) is determined to educate her child so that he can enter a more respectable profession. Will Shirmi succeed in her noble task or will Baboo too end up being a band baja wala?

Review: Not-so-long-ago, Amit Abhyankar’s Jana Gana Mana (2012) gave an important message that every child has a right to education irrespective of his social class. The same message is put forth in Rajesh Pinjani’s debut flick Baboo Band Baja, although in a different way. Like Abhyankar, Pinjani too succeeds in spreading the message with honesty.

The story hardly moves forward in the first half but the interesting sequences, conversations and confrontations and most importantly, the direction makes sure your interest is very much alive. In fact, it works well here as you become absorbed in the rural mood of the flick and even start feeling for the characters. The same absorption is continued even in the post-interval sequences, although things continue to go at the same pace.

(Review continued after picture.)

Some appealing events nicely lead up to the pre-climax portion. They could have ended the film in the pre-climax itself though. But having said this, the makers surely deserve applause for the message given.

Rohit Nagbhide’s songs are apt for the subject and so is the background score. The cinematography is applause-worthy as it beautifully captures the remote village. The editing should have been tighter, especially in the funeral scenes.

Mitalee Jagtap Varadkar gets into the skin of her character with such mastery that it is difficult to believe that she is putting on an act for a movie. It isn’t surprising that she won a National Award for the performance. Milind Shinde molds himself perfectly to play Jaggu. He gives a terrific act too.

A difficult character is played by ease by child actor Vivek Chabukswar. The actor deserves a lot of applause as it could have been a daunting task for any kid. He too rightfully deserves a National Award for the act. The surprise package is the actress who played the mad woman. She is outstanding!

Overall, Baboo Band Baja will please those who prefer off-beat cinema. The film is in desperate need of positive word-of-mouth. The fact that it is released with four other Marathi movies will surely affect its chances at the box-office.

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Baboo Band Baja, Baboo Band Baja Marathi movie, Baboo Band Baja movie review, Babu Band Baja movie, Marathi movie reviews, Mitalee Jagtap Varadkar

Kashala Udyachi Baat Movie Review

April 14, 2012 by Keyur Seta 1 Comment

Direction: Pramod Joshi

Production: Balasaheb Bhapkar and Shashank Bhapkar for Sai Prasad Media

Cast: Sachin Khedekar, Anupam Kher, Atul Parchure, Mrinal Kulkarni, Anjan Shrivastav, Suresh Menon, Suresh Menon, Kishori Ambiye, Kishor Pradhan, Rajesh Upadhyay

Music: Salil Kulkarni

Rating: * * * ½

Plot: IT professional Aditya Pradhan (Sachin Khedekar) has reached the pinnacles of success in no time. This has ensured he has everything in life. However, the race to become successful has just reduced him to a money-making machine as he has just forgotten to actually live life. In fact, he regularly faces wrath from his wife Sakshi (Mrinal Kulkarni) and daughter Tanisha (Shruti Welankar) for not being able to give time to them.

Aditya’s life takes a drastic turn one day when he is confronted with a puzzling as well as a shocking situation. There is just nobody who can solve Aditya’s problem. Just then, he comes across a blind stranger (Anupam Kher). Is the stranger a solution to Aditya’s problem?

Review: You have a successful career, family, hefty bank balance, bungalow, expensive car and all the luxuries of life. But does that really mean you are living life and not merely existing? What is the use of such enormous success when you can’t share it with your family? Such harsh reality of today’s urban life is portrayed in Pramod Joshi’s Kashala Udyachi Baat! And while that happens, you get to experience a moving saga that will motivate you to live life to the fullest.

Although the puzzling situation, which Aditya faces, was earlier seen in the Hollywood flick Groundhog Day, it works very well here as it also gives a kick start to the proceedings. And those who haven’t seen the Hollywood film will be awestruck by the twist. Aditya’s confusion produces some humorous and interesting situations. However, dialogue writers (Joshi and Sanjay Dole) could have used the problem in increasing the funny situations.

(Review continued after picture.)

The hold is continued in the second half when Anupam Kher’s character gains full control. What follows is a series of incidents that will touch hearts of city dwellers as they will realize the importance of living rather than just being money-making machines. This is followed by a climax that will bring a smile on your face and you will come out of the theatre rejuvenated.

The film, however, also has few flipsides. At one point the events in the second half might appear stretched and preachy. This might not be accepted by entertainment-hungry audience.

Salil Kulkarni’s music suits the mood of the flick except the item number. Technical areas like cinematography (Salil Sahastrabuddhe) and background music (Bapi Tutul) score well too.

Sachin Khedekar once again gives a delightful performance. Whether it is comedy, tragedy, helplessness or anger; he portrays every emotion with flawlessness. Anupam Kher is simply lovable! It’s a delight to watch him perform as he gives some valuable gyan and at the same time makes you laugh.

The film is well supported by cameos from Atul Parchure, Mrinal Kulkarni, Anjan Shrivastav, Suresh Menon, Suresh Menon, Kishori Ambiye, Kishor Pradhan and Rajesh Upadhyay.

Overall, Kashala Udyachi Baat! gives an important lesson that will surely move the urban workaholics. The film relies heavily on word-of-mouth if it has to succeed at the box-office.

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Anupam Kher Marathi movie, Kashala Udyachi Baat box office, Kashala Udyachi Baat film review, Kashala Udyachi Baat Marathi movie, Kashala Udyachi Baat movie, Kashala Udyachi Baat movie review, Kashala Udyachi Baat movie story

Aayna Ka Bayna: Life is a dancing stage!

March 4, 2012 by Keyur Seta Leave a Comment

Since recent years, Marathi filmmakers have started making films on subjects which were never touched before. One filmmaker who has also tried to do that is Samit Kakkad in Aayna Ka Bayna, a film entirely based on different forms of western dance. The film stars well-renowned Marathi actor Sachin Khedekar along with Amruta Khanvilkar and Raqesh Vashisht.

The makers have claimed that this is the first Marathi film to be based purely on western dance. Director Kakkad, whose last flick being Huppa Huyaa, further explains this by saying, “Aayna Ka Bayna is all about dreaming with your feet and winning.”

As dance is an important ingredient of the story, the makers have tried to make sure that no stone is left unturned when it comes to the quality of dance. They have roped in dancers from Rohan N Group. The group has managed to impress viewers with their moves in dance reality shows like Boogie Woogie and Chak Dhoom Dhoom.

And if there is dance, there has to be music. For this, composers Ajit Parab and Sameer Mhatre are being signed. There are also action sequences imbibed in the script which are handled by Javed-Aezaz.

Now, only the release of the movie will determine whether the makers will ‘dance’ all the way to the bank as well as audiences’ hearts!

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Aayna Ka Bayna, Aayna Ka Bayna Amruta Khanvilkar, Aayna Ka Bayna Marathi movie, Aayna Ka Bayna movie, Aayna Ka Bayna story, Amruta Khanvilkar movie, Sachin Khedekar movie

Jana Gana Mana (Marathi Movie) Review

January 29, 2012 by Keyur Seta 21 Comments

Direction: Amit Abhyankar

Production: Golden Dreams Production House

Cast: Nandu Madhav, Chinmay Sant, Santosh Juvekar, Madhura Velankar Satam, Asmita Joglekar

Music: Dr Saleel Kulkarni

Rating: * * * ½

Plot: School teacher Ramchandra Sontakke (Nandu Madhav) is fed-up of teaching in a school in a tribal area of Maharashtra called Mhalunge. He longs to get a transfer to a school with more civilized students. In order to impress his senior, who will be visiting the school on Independence Day, he organizes a flag hoisting ceremony and a patriotic play to prove his mettle.

His student Katu (Chinmay Sant) is eager to sing the National Anthem on Independence Day. For this, he needs to be dressed up in new white clothes. However, his parents Dagadu (Santosh Juvekar) and his wife (Madhura Velankar Satam) can never afford it as they are struggling for even the basic necessities of life (food, clothing and shelter). Will Katu be heartbroken?

Review: Tribals are looked so down upon in our society that they are almost considered from different species. Naturally, their children are regarded the same. However, given a chance, these children can match up to their civilized counterparts and develop love for the nation if they are given proper education. This bold message is sensibly delivered in Amit Abhyankar’s Jana Gana Mana, a film which will change many a perception towards the so-called backward classes.

(Click to engarlge)

Sameer Joshi’s impressive writing is seen right in the initial moments as the tribal life is presented realistically with the inclusion of simple but rib-tickling humour. The fact that these children are not aware even of the name of our country will come as a shocker for most of us. A well-performed humorous scene follows when Madhav’s character struggles to explain the name of our country and its history to the students.

But what takes the cake is the actor’s one-act play performance at the interval portion where he narrates a historic incident in one take. Talking of one-take scenes, there’s another one where Madhav, on a bicycle, tries to dodge bullock carts coming from opposite direction, which could have been dangerous. Looking at Madhav’s overall performance, you can’t help but applaud the actor’s talent and dedication.

Apart from few dragging moments in the later part of second half, there isn’t any flipside. Lastly, Chinmay Sant’s act in the climax touches your heart. This also gives rise to a twist (not possible to reveal) which sends a positive message that every child has a right to education irrespective of his or her social status.

Rajesh Khale’s camerawork and Dr Saleel Kulkarni’s music suit the mood of the flick. Editing department should be praised too for the tight length (less than two hours).

Child actor Chinmay Sant adapts a tribal lifestyle with ease and delivers a top-notch performance. Santosh Juvekar and Madhura Velankar Satam are remarkable in challenging roles. Asmita Joglekar as Chinmay’s sister does well too.

Overall, Jana Gana Mana deserves applause for presenting a serious issue in a light-hearted manner while retaining the sensibility of the subject. However, it won’t have an easy run at the box-office since it is released with the Bollywood biggie Agneepath. Hence, it is highly in need of positive word-of-mouth.

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Jana Gana Mana Marathi film, Jana Gana Mana Marathi movie, Jana Gana Mana Marathi movie review, Jana Gana Mana movie review, Nandu Madhav movies, Santosh Juvekar movies

Marathi films shouldn’t compete with each other: Santosh Juvekar (Exclusive Interview)

January 22, 2012 by Keyur Seta 9 Comments

After playing a wide range of characters in last three years or so, Santosh Juvekar has become one of the most sought after names in Marathi cinema currently. It is his quest of exploring different shades of his talent that has helped him reach this level.

The actor has continued this exploration in his upcoming flick Jana Gana Mana. In an exclusive chat, the Morya lads speaks about his movie and shares his views on Marathi cinema.

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What is your movie Jana Gana Mana about? What is the context of the title with the movie?

As we all know, Jana Gana Mana is our national anthem which is sung proudly on Independence and Republic Days. In the film, my son wants to sing the national anthem in his school on Independence Day. However, only those with clean and white clothes get a chance to sing it. And we being tribals can’t afford such clothes. So, my character vows to get such clothes for his son so that he can sing the National Anthem in his school.

Tell us about your character in the movie.

I play a carefree and lazy character who doesn’t even shy away from stealing. But he goes through a transformation and sets a goal to fulfill his son’s dream.

It is visible from the promos and posters that the actors were made to wear a very dark make-up. Was this really necessary?

Yes it was. We play tribals in the movie who live in dirty and unclean surroundings. So, one can’t expect us to be clean and tidy. And my character in the movie is such that he doesn’t take a bath for even 2-3 days (smiles).

What are your expectations from the movie?

We are surely expecting the film to succeed. It’s a movie for the whole family and we all have worked hard for it. The story is moving. So, we want people to go to the theatres to watch it.

Nowadays, there are too many Marathi films releasing simultaneously. We can even see three films clashing on the same day. Don’t you think this is a disadvantage?

This is definitely a disadvantage. This shouldn’t happen. It is up to the producers to sit and decide and make sure there is a gap between each release. Till now, Marathi films were competing only against Bollywood. There shouldn’t be a time when Marathi films start competing against each other.

 

Jana Gana Mana is directed by debutant Amit Abhyankar and produced by Sandeep Kadam and Sachin KAdam. Apart from Juvekar, it also stars Madhura Velankar Satam, Nandu Madhav, Chinmay Sant and Asmita Joglekar. The film is slated to release this Republic Day i.e January 26.

– Keyur Seta

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Jana Gana Mana box office, Jana Gana Mana Marathi movie, Jana Gana Mana movie, Santosh Juvekar, Santosh Juvekar interview, Santosh Juvekar Jana Gana Mana, Santosh Juvekar movies

Shala (Marathi Movie) Review

January 19, 2012 by Keyur Seta 41 Comments

Direction: Sujay Dahake

Production: The Great Maratha Entertainment, Nishad Audio Visuals, Naulakha Arts

Cast: Anshuman Joshi, Ketaki Mategaonkar, Dilip Prabhavalkar, Nandu Madhav, Santosh Juvekar, Jitendra Joshi, Devki Daftardar, Ashwini Giri, Amruta Khanvilkar

Music: Aloknanda Dasgupta

Rating: * * * ½

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Plot: Based on the novel of the same name by Milind Bokil, the film is set in the 1970s in the interiors of Maharashtra. Ninth standard student Mukund Manohar Joshi (Anshuman Joshi) has a crush on his beautiful classmate Shirodkar (Ketaki Mategaonkar). There are also a bunch of interesting characters in the form of teachers, a principal and Joshi’s parents.

One day, Joshi garners courage and proposes to Shirodkar. Will she accept his proposal? Is there a future for their love story? Backdrop of the Emergency period is also used in the narrative.

Review: No matter how big you grow, school memories will always be etched in your memory forever. Time and again, you feel like revisiting your old school days. Sujay Dahake’s Shala (School) will help you revisit those days for almost two hours by experiencing the joys and sorrows of a bunch of kids studying in the ninth standard.

Avinash Deshpande (screenplay) deliberately uses not-so-fast narration due to the nature of the subject. This was necessary so as to involve the audience into the proceedings as the kids go about their daily routine in the school. But despite the kind of pace used, proper care is been taken to keep boredom at bay with the help of some humorous incidents and conversations.

Apart from Dahake’s handling of the classroom scenes, it is Diego Romero’s artistic camerawork and Divya Mehta’s realistic sets (of the 70s) that make you feel as if you have enrolled once again in a school. This is more evident when you feel for the students in the climax. The above trio’s contribution in the village (non-classroom) scenes makes sure you also experience a visual treat. Aloknanda Dasgupta’s background music provides further soothe to the proceedings.

But the events in a few portions of the second half might test the patience of those who are looking for commercial entertainment.

Despite the presence of some experienced actors, it was necessary for Anshuman Joshi and Ketaki Mategaonkar to give top-notch performances as they are the central characters. Both kids do exactly that while making us feel as if they are seasoned actors. The rest of the kids, especially the one who plays Mhatre, are lovable too.

Experienced actors like Dilip Prabhavalkar, Nandu Madhav, Santosh Juvekar, Jitendra Joshi, Devki Daftardar and Ashwini Giri give mature acts in supporting roles. Although Amruta Khanvilkar does well, she should have been given more lines.

Overall, Shala is as gentle as a smooth flowing river. Those interested in meaningful, off-beat genre should attend this class. At the box-office, the word-of-mouth will help the movie enjoy good collections.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Shala box office collection, Shala film review, Shala Marathi film, Shala Marathi movie, Shala Marathi movie review, Shala movie, Shala movie review, Shala story

Shala (Marathi Movie) Box-Office Prediction

January 15, 2012 by Keyur Seta 6 Comments

Star Value: Child artists Anshuman Joshi and Ketaki Mategaonkar are slowly gaining popularity after the promos and the publicity. The film also has well known Marathi actors like Dilip Prabhvalkar, Santosh Juvekar, Nandu Madhav, Jitendra Joshi and Amruta Khanvilkar. However, for Marathi films, presence of big stars doesn’t matter since it is the story or the plot that attracts the audience.

Hype: The promos of the movie instantly impressed the audience when they were released last year. The excitement for the movie rose after it was appreciated the world over at various film festivals. Later on, the fact that the movie was postponed a number of times further increased its popularity.

Music: There isn’t much scope for music in Shala but that shouldn’t be a worry.

Prediction: Judging by the fact that the film is eagerly awaited, it will surely gain a very positive opening. And if the initial reports are positive, the word-of-mouth will help the film continue its reign in the forthcoming weeks.

(Click to enlarge)

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Shala Marathi, Shala Marathi film, Shala Marathi movie, Shala Marathi movie preview, Shala Marathi movie review, Shala movie, Shala movie actors, Shala movie box office, Shala movie box office profit, Shala movie cast

Sharyat (Marathi Movie) Review

December 17, 2011 by Keyur Seta 4 Comments

Direction: Viju Mane

Production: Ashwamegh Productions

Cast: Sachin Pilgaonkar, Vidyadhar Joshi, Neena Kulkarni, Santosh Juvekar, Sampada Joglekar

Music: Chinar-Mahesh

Rating: * * *

Plot: A traditional bullock-cart race takes place every year in one of the rural areas of Maharashtra. The family that wins the race gets a chance to perform the very important Shiv Puja that year. For years Dhananjay Rao (Sachin Pilgaonkar) is winning the race for Gayatri’s (Neena Kulkarni) family. But once, Dhananjay loses the race due to the crooked method employed by Pratapsingh (Vidyadhar Joshi).

This ensures Dhananjay’s bullock cart meets with an accident which kills few people and injures the bullocks. Devastated by the incident, Dhananjay migrates to the city. He returns after five years and refuses to take part in the race. However, circumstances force him to take part in the last bullock-cart race. This race will decide which family will perform the auspicious puja each and every year. But Dhananjay has to face the mighty Pratapsingh.

Apart from story and direction, Marathi movies have come a long way even in the technical departments like cinematography, sleek editing and background music. These factors are visible in Viju Mane’s Sharyat, which, minus few hiccups, is surely a one-time watch.

Writers (Mane and Hemant Edlabadkar) bring the first plot point (main point) much sooner in the script. Due to this, there is not much to tell before the interval. Fortunately, the events and the cat and mouse game between the protagonist and the villain keep you interested if not fully gripped. The major twist at the interval point appears promising.

But a lengthy item number at the start of the second half acts as a dampener. Even the romantic song between Santosh Juvekar and Sampada Joglekar halts the proceedings. An unusual fact here is that Juvekar’s character has hardly anything to do with the main plot. Plus, Neena Kulkarni’s cruel act in the penultimate moments doesn’t go well with her character.

Fortunately, the events that follow later in the second half and the climax are laudable. In fact, the bullock-cart race in the climax is wonderfully shot which keeps you at the edge of your seat.

Shabbir Naik’s impressive cinematography and Satish Patil’s sharp editing deserve special mention. There is not much scope for music. ‘Sheela Chya Aaicha Gho’ is the track you take home from Chinar-Mahesh’s compositions.

Sachin Pilgaonkar perfectly gets into the skin of his character. This can be rated as one of his mature serious acts. Vidyadhar Joshi has enacted a similar character few times before but he deserves applause for playing a negative act with perfection. As expected from a respected name like Neena Kulkarni, she gives a mature and sensible act.

Although Santosh Juvekar’s character isn’t related to the story much, it’s a pleasure to see him perform. Sampada Joglekar, who looks naturally beautiful, isn’t bad as his love interest. The actor playing Kulkarni’s husband does well to portray a paralytic patient. The rest of the cast provides good support.

Overall, Sharyat tilts more towards the positive side. At the box-office, the film should garner decent collections before the big Bollywood release Don 2 hits the theatres.

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Shariat Marathi movie, Sharyat Marathi film review, Sharyat Marathi movie, Sharyat Marathi movie ratings, Sharyat Marathi movie review, Sharyat movie, Sharyat movie review, Sharyat Sachin Pilgaonkar

Swarajya (Marathi Movie) Review

November 11, 2011 by Keyur Seta 18 Comments

Direction: Vishal-Vihar

Production: Raees Lashkariya

Cast: Rajesh Shrungarpure, Darshan Jariwala, Arun Nalawade, Ila Bhate, Hemangi Kavi, Sushrut Mankani, Anshuman Vichare, Namrata Gaikwad

Music: Nitin Hivarkar

Rating: * * *

Plot: Ram Pathare (Rajesh Shrungarpure) struggles to get capital to start business due of the general belief that Marathis aren’t good at it. Apart from this, his heart bleeds due to the hardships and problems faced by Marathis. Not ready to accept defeat, Rajesh fights all odds and excels in the field of business.

But he doesn’t stop at this. With his Guruji’s advice, he starts Yuva Sanghatana Sena, an organization for the welfare of Marathis and later a political party called Swarajya Sena. But Ram has an obstacle in his path in the form of MLA Kapadia (Darshan Jariwala).

Recently, F M Ilyas’ Arjun tried to rejuvenate the image of the Marathi manoos by keeping business as the core issue. Vishal-Vihar’s Swarajya – Marathi Paul Padte Pudhe also has the same aim. However, the latter proves the point in a much better way than Arjun and is also much smarter in execution. The end product might not appear superlative but it certainly deserves a watch.

Vihar Ghag has intelligently woven the numerous incidents into the script in order the highlight the issue Marathis are facing. Thankfully, he doesn’t go overboard to prove the point as there is always a danger of getting carried away while handling such social issues.

The film goes into top gear once Ram starts his Yuva Sanghatana Sena. The formation of the group and the way Ram builds his team is appealing. As expected, there are a good number of seeti bajao sequences and dialogues. A scene which deserves special mention is the one where Ram gives a formidable reply to South Indian and Gujarati businessmen. The second half too starts on a promising note with the incident of Ram entering politics being the highlight.

How we wish the goodness continued till the end! Unfortunately, the penultimate moments and the climax are too stretched. Ram’s encounter with Kapadia’s relative Shah is harsh and uncalled for. This also makes sure the second half becomes 1 hour 30 minutes long whereas the first half was just about an hour. Plus, typical filmi sequences in the finale prove disappointing.

(Review continued after photo.)

Debutant director duo of Vishal-Vihar does a decent job. The film can also boast of its high production value. Umesh Pophale’s artistic and intelligent cinematography is visible in almost every scene.

Musical score by Nitin Hivarkar is a plus point with songs ‘Mard Maratha’ and ‘Rama Rama’ deserving mention. However, the music played in the song ‘Na Nazar Konachi Lage’ is very similar to the tune of the Hindi song ‘Tera Saath Hai Kitna Pyara’ (Janbaaz, 1986).

Fiery dialogues, by Vishal Ghag and Mandar Gaydhani, play an important role in having an effect on the audience although they tend to go overboard in few places.

Rajesh Shringarpure rises to the occasion and gives a power-packed performance. He manages to appeal both as a struggling Marathi youth and a leader of masses with ease. His character is surely inspired from Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray. Although Rajesh played a similar character in Avdhoot Gupte’s Zenda, he presents an altogether different act in Swarajya.

Darshan Jariwala gives a mature act as the antagonist. He proves why he is a respected name when it comes to playing character roles. Anshuman Vichare, Sushrut Mankani, Arun Nalawade, Ila Bhate, Hemangi Kavi, Namrate Gaikwad and the rest of the cast offer perfect support. But what’s difficult to forget is a side character who is an exact lookalike of superstar Rajnikanth. (Wonder from where they found him!)

Overall, Swarajya – Marathi Paul Padte Pudhe falls in the could-have-been-great category due to the above mentioned negative points. What works against it is that the audience has quite recently seen a brilliant effort on the same issue in the form of Mahesh Manjrekar’s Mee Shivajiraje Bhosle Boltoy.

Nevertheless, some praiseworthy incidents and Shrungarpure’s performance make it a one-time watch affair. It has a good chance at the box-office since it plays the Marathi Manoos card which has proved successful in the past.

P.S : – I heartily appreciate the fact that the makers honoured Dadasaheb Phalke, the Father of Indian Cinema, before the opening credits. I am surprised why this isn’t done often since without Phalke’s efforts, we wouldn’t have been enjoying movies in India.

19.02626572.838052

Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Rajesh Shringarpure, Swarajya film review, Swarajya Marathi movie, Swarajya Marathi movie review, Swarajya Marathi Paaul Padte Pudhe, Swarajya Marathi Paul Padte Pudhe review, Swarajya movie box office, Swarajya movie review, Swarajya movie story, Swarajya Rajesh Shringarpure, Swarajya review

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