Chhapaak

Movie Review (Hindi)

Chhapaak, a splashing sound (made by acid thrown on someone’s face, in the context of the movie)

Acid attack survivors who are women, have somehow not been in the limelight for whatever reasons. But these women live each day of their lives reminded every moment of how difficult it is to live a normal life. Not only do they see themselves as someone they cannot recognize but so does society, which often looks upon them as freaks.

I am happy Meghna Gulzar selected this topic to direct which, not surprisingly, has not been a topic for commercial movies. I was pleasantly surprised at the treatment of the film. There was a documentary feel to this movie, based on a real life acid attack survivor, which made the pain stand out.

Deepika Padukone playing Malti, made a point in opting to do this movie and it is a risk as she is seen as an acid attack victim with a face quite unlike hers. She is growing as an actress no doubt but she needed to be more than a giggly school going girl. Vikrant Massey, who plays Amol, shines in every role he does as he brings a certain truth to his work.
Hopefully, this movie will create enough ripples in the corridors of power to take a relook at the laws that should give justice to those who suffer. It is also necessary to create a social environment where acid attack survivors feel safe and cared for.
 

Raazi

Movie Review (Hindi)

Here is a Hindi movie which is a spy thriller but not quite. It has the entire gamut of an emotional drama and that is why it is different and that is why it is so watchable. I have been an admirer of Alia Bhatt and this movie simply strengthens my belief in her acting skills. Besides she has got one of the most talented directors, Meghna Gulzar, to direct her.

This movie is based on real life and has several heart-stopping and heart-breaking moments. Despite high drama what stood out was the subtlety of the enactment. Just not what is expected from a commercial Hindi movie with its over the top acting, hamming and mindboggling stunts. 

What stood out was the fact that Pakistan was not depicted as the war mongering ogre that it is generally shown as. Here, Indians marry Pakistanis and can live happily, though thanks to our political and armed discourse we are making it more and more difficult.

The movie is like a breath of fresh air. Each character has been excellently portrayed and there is the 1970s feel in the surroundings.

Sehmat is a character who will not be forgotten anymore, whether it the real Sehmat or the actor Alia who brought her back to haunt us.