Slice-of-life story about a family in mourning is an interesting take on death
ONE of the best Bollywood films released this year was comedy-drama Pagglait, which centred on family dynamics in the aftermath of the death of a loved one, and this new Netflix release goes down the same path.
In fact, there are so many similarities that the team behind Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi had reportedly accused Pagglait of copying their film.
Like Pagglait, this story revolves around what happens when members of a large family are together for the mourning period after a death. It isn’t long before deeprooted grievances, along with hidden secrets, bubble up to the surface.
While Pagglait was largely about a widow being indifferent about the death of her husband and finding out some home truths, this tragicomedy is a lot more layered with many more characters. The result is an interesting drama with added conflict and dynamics that most people in an extended family will relate to.
What makes this film particularly good is a strong cast of acclaimed performers, who breathe an added dimension into each character and offer viewers a whole host of memorable moments.
That interplay between the talented actors is perhaps the best aspect of this film. Actress turned filmmaker Seema Pahwa brings out the best in the cast and should be commended for delivering such an accomplished debut.
The overall story could have perhaps been stronger and there was scope for a less predictable ending, but there is still more than enough in this surprisingly decent film to keep the audience interested.
The slice-of-life story is far more intelligent than most formula-driven Bollywood films, and is another interesting exploration of death that punches way above its weight.
Although Pagglait has taken away the impact of Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi, it definitely deserves to be seen and is one that will keep viewers engaged from start to finish.