I have not read Byomkesh Bakshi stories before and so this was my first glimpse into the world of Indian Sherlock Holmes. It was an experience that makes me want to go back again and again. It deserves appreciation on multiple fronts- I have not seen something this good in a long long time, the last time being 'Kahaani', which too has Calcutta as its backdrop.
But the Calcutta in Byomkesh Bakshi is different. It is the one from 1943, when World War2, drug smuggling, Japanese invasion of India and freedom struggle formed the backdrop. The plot involves multiple twists and turns, suspense, action, a bit of romance and even a femme fatale. It keeps us guessing, makes us ask questions and finally reveals the plot in a creative and interesting sequence. Full marks to the story.
The depiction of Calcutta of the era was brilliant along with the acting. Each actor portrays their role effectively and with skill. I was also drawn in by the graphic novel type imagery they produced- something new in India- which reminded my of Guy Ritchie and Quentin Tarantino, but without their unrealistic depictions and hyperbole.
The movie also stays away from the usual bollywood masala and pointless songs, squeezed in comedy and action sequences. Every moment is important to the plot and it is a pleasure to watch the dots being connected and to try and do it ourselves.
In short, its a really good movie. A must watch, a good entertainer, something to cherish as well as look forward to sequel hopefully. These are the sort of movies we need to entertain us, these are the sort of movies that we need to watch and take to box office collection records, not mind numbing and idiotic ones that have been crowned as successes.
Now, let me order the book and read!
But the Calcutta in Byomkesh Bakshi is different. It is the one from 1943, when World War2, drug smuggling, Japanese invasion of India and freedom struggle formed the backdrop. The plot involves multiple twists and turns, suspense, action, a bit of romance and even a femme fatale. It keeps us guessing, makes us ask questions and finally reveals the plot in a creative and interesting sequence. Full marks to the story.
The depiction of Calcutta of the era was brilliant along with the acting. Each actor portrays their role effectively and with skill. I was also drawn in by the graphic novel type imagery they produced- something new in India- which reminded my of Guy Ritchie and Quentin Tarantino, but without their unrealistic depictions and hyperbole.
The movie also stays away from the usual bollywood masala and pointless songs, squeezed in comedy and action sequences. Every moment is important to the plot and it is a pleasure to watch the dots being connected and to try and do it ourselves.
In short, its a really good movie. A must watch, a good entertainer, something to cherish as well as look forward to sequel hopefully. These are the sort of movies we need to entertain us, these are the sort of movies that we need to watch and take to box office collection records, not mind numbing and idiotic ones that have been crowned as successes.
Now, let me order the book and read!
No comments:
Post a Comment