What an AWESOME/WONDERFUL/INCREDIBLE/HILARIOUS/DEPRESSING MOVIE!!
IF ONLY Bollywood would make more of these!
The movie began with a Disclaimer, which is the longest Disclaimer you will ever read- an action that had to be presented because of THE CENSOR BOARD (I ain’t going to into the controversial issue but this film pissed all over The Censor Board and their ‘cuts’).
But let me remind you, this film is no typical Bollywood film. ABSOLUTELY NOT. There is no lip-syncing, dancing or ‘i met you 2 seconds ago and now i’m in love, so lets dance in the rain and maintain excruciating eye-contact which will later provide us with a baby.’
No, this film had no major introduction to the characters, even if it was a scene of huge Bollywood Stars, such as Kareena Kapoor Khan or Shahid Kapoor. The characters were welcomed into the scene as any other person walking down a street. Nothing fancy, therefore,the characters were seen as real. Infact, i did not see any major Bollywood STAR, i saw people. People that actually exist in our world. That itself is a huge achievement by the actors and the director. I mean if Shahid Kapoor or the rest of the cast do not win a Filmfare award or National Award, then fuck it, i aint Indian anymore. They are the most believable, outstanding character ensemble you will see in Indian cinema for long time.
The four characters lives were woven so seamlessly into the film, that at the end of the film you realise that the film doesn’t rely on a major story rather it is a character driven story outline so you have a better understanding of the shit these people are going through.
My only problem with the film, was that even though it was focused on the characters and done commendably, i just wish i knew a little more about them apart from the current situation. I mean, we are given hints but for me it is not enough to be completely inspired by them. Although, a more diverse depiction will hopefully make someone relate to the character and inspire them to realise their drug use or other personal issues needs to be changed.
Every couple of scenes, the issue of Drug Use is bluntly expressed by the characters and the horrific consequences. Abhishek Chubby, the director, and Sudip Sharma, the writer of the film, intelligently creates this without ever blocking out a performance or action, it is within a context that is appropriate and not unnecessarily brought up. There are scenes which make you want to throw up as well as punch the people who use drugs- an extremely powerful impact of the movie. The issue of drugs is so important and needs to be seen by EVERYONE (above 15 of course). It is not only a problem of Punjab but a global problem. Say No To Drugs. Stop and think about yourself and the others who love you.
One of my favourite scenes at the beginning of the movie is when, Punjab’s Pop Star, Tommy Singh is in the recording studio with his mates and is belting out a song – ‘COCK AND COKE’! It is HILARIOUS, and One of the most fucked up things you will see. Tommy Singh is so addicted to drugs and still believes he is the most amazing thing on the planet- a true caricature and a complete FADU (loser).
The films unexpected humour was the best thing ever! I’m not talking about a few witty lines or one small scene that incorporates comedy. No, i’m talking about the brilliant comical timing that is scattered throughout the film. The only way i can explain it, is that it is an ‘act and respond’ type of humour. The humour is based on the relationships formed with each character and the way they respond to the situation. Thus, the humour is always in context and makes you believe it’s something the character would actually say. The awkwardness, misunderstandings and the WTF moments, made me want to give the film a big giant hug!
The movie ends with a boy crying- a depiction of the generations that need to be educated by first, acknowledging it is a dangerous problem which is rapidly slipping from our ability to stop it.
Overall, the film delved into the charcaters inner conflicts, luxurious, moral and ethical dilemmas but mostly, the turmoil of being human.
The small number of audience (including me) were laughing, crying, gasping and sometimes just silent during the harsh violence. We all felt deeply, we sympathised and empathised. We witnessed it together- a bunch of strangers on journey to be informed and entertained. That is, the magic of cinema in a theatre.
A few lines about these characters:
Tommy Singh: Most hilarious, Confused, Naive child (although he is a fully grown adult- he acts like a child).
Bihari Immigrant: Her life makes you realise how blessed your life is. A warrior and a broken hearted girl who you just want to save so desperately.
Dr. Preet Sahni: The brave and kindest women (the purest of goodness in this world)
Sartaj Singh (Police Man): He is us. His journey of acknowledging the issue of drugs and its effects, are experienced by us too. A good hearted man.
reshma ravi 