#Citylights : How
often do we come across an Indian cinema that accepts adaptation from a foreign
film. Well, Citylights sets its intention clear by giving due credit to “Metro
Manila” the British –Filipino film from which it has been adapted. Throughout
Hansal Mehta stays true to his idea of cinema – it is not an escape from
reality, instead a stark journey into the world so real that it disturbs you.
It is a reflection of the times we live in- where innocent is often exploited.
It is a tale of the dichotomy that exists in our society - where millions
struggle in the pavements to make both ends meet, while a handful enjoy a life
of bliss and binge. It is a story of the maximum city where obnoxious slum
windows open straight into the skyscrapers built just opposite and about those
helpless poverty ridden eyes. Beneath the superficial harmonious co-existence
lies the vulnerable aspiration.
While
Deeapk’s struggle is for a dignified survival, Vishnu’s despair is to make some
quick buck. Having lived in a city where mean does not justify end, the path is
not important for him. Mehta cunningly captures this contrast to transform an
intense & realistic human story into an enthralling thriller. The first
half of the movie is a poignant portrayal of a simpleton’s effort to survive.
It will overwhelm you. There is a scene where Deepak’s wife played by debutante
Patralekha decides to become a bar dancer to support her husband. She goes to
the bar owner who checks her out .The unbearable helplessness in her eyes as
she struggles to follow the order to smile almost makes you numb. This scene
stands out for the way it has been directed and delivered. While till interval
it is a reverting saga of human hope and despair, post interval it sharply
turns towards being a thriller and tends to be dragging. This is where the
screen play veers a bit. But Mehta pulls it off just in time to deliver a
powerful film.
Rajkumar
Rao gives yet another scintillating yet effortless performance. You just stand
and marvel at his intensity. His eyes reflect his despair laden hope. You
indentify with his anguish & feel his agony. Patralekha is a bundle of
talent and plays perfect foil to Rajkumar. Rarely have I seen a debutant giving
such a confident performance. Manav Kaul is a laudable in a role that projects
toughness with vulnerability. Apurva Asrani who has edited films like Satya ,
Shaheed again goes on to show why he is one of the best in the business today.
Jeet Ganguly’s music and background score compliments the screen play and
Rashmi Singh’s lyrics becomes an integral part of the film. It’s deeply
meaningful. As far as direction goes the film has Hansal Mehta written all over
it.
The
birds wake up in the morning. Struggle the entire day in search of food and
come back to their nest in the evening. With the ever widening chasm between
large metros and small villages – migration for existence has become a norm.
However if the migration is just physical or the values are also getting
diluted, will decide if we come back to the root unscathed or fade into the
world of oblivion.
If
Cinema for you is a succor from mundane intricacies of life then better watch
the million dollar babies do Jhampin Jhapak in the name of cricket , but if for
you it is a form of art that imitates life don’t miss Citylights.
I
will go out with 3.5 out of 5.
No comments:
Post a Comment