Aatmapamphlet

Aatmapamphlet is a masterfully crafted film that explores the complexities of childhood blossoming amidst communal tensions, and it does so with incredible sensitivity and depth. Directed by Ashish Avinash Bende, the film shines primarily due to the stellar writing by Paresh Mokashi, a celebrated filmmaker known for his insightful narratives. Mokashi expertly navigates the delicate balance between innocence and intelligence in his young characters, depicting them as both wise beyond their years and deeply compassionate. The film follows their journey of choosing love over hate, a theme that is as timeless as it is relevant.

One of the key strengths of Aatmapamphlet is how it taps into the socio-political landscape of the late 70s to 90s, reflecting the era's communal tensions while simultaneously portraying the protagonist's innocent perspective on these events. This semi-autobiographical account resonates deeply with anyone who grew up in that time, and the use of narration by Mokashi adds a light-hearted yet introspective touch, preventing the film from becoming preachy while still imparting its important message.

Om Bendkhale, as the young Ashish, delivers a performance filled with innocence and authenticity, capturing the heart of the film. His ensemble of friends adds to the charm, with each character contributing a unique perspective to the journey. The supporting cast, including Ashish's family and teachers, adds multiple layers to the narrative, with Rohan Mapuskar's casting choices being spot-on. It's also a pleasant surprise to see Deepak Shirke back on screen, delivering a performance that complements the overall tone of the film.

Visually, the film is a treat, with Satyajeet Shobha Shriram's cinematography bringing the setting to life in a way that feels both nostalgic and grounded. The editing, production, and art design, led by Baban Adagale, further elevate the film, ensuring it is a well-rounded cinematic experience.

While the film excels in most areas, the climax, though open to interpretation, feels a bit rushed. The narrative could have benefitted from a bit more time in this final moment, offering additional insight into the protagonist's journey and the reasoning behind certain events. That being said, Aatmapamphlet is a poignant film that remains relevant in today's world, shining a light on everyday discrimination that many have become numb to, while ultimately delivering the powerful message that love triumphs over hatred.

Co-produced by Aanand L. Rai, the film carries subtle echoes of his Raanjhanaa, particularly in its exploration of complex relationships and the emotional weight of social divides. Aatmapamphlet has already garnered global recognition, including praise at this year's Berlinale, and it is a film that deserves to be seen. Don't miss this exceptional, thought-provoking piece of cinema.

I wish films like 'Aatmapamphlet' got made more. But I guess the dearth of such films are also what makes it special and helps stand out.

A coming-of-age Marathi feature supported by terrific casting and their performances, the writing, the film making, cinematography, editing, production design... (I could go on).

There are more reasons to give @ashishbende's film a chance at the theatres than I can count.

If you're looking for a wholesome story and are keen on taking a trip down memory Lane, this is for you.

For the sake of supporting good cinema, please give it a chance at the theatres.

It requires a theatrical experience.

Happy Thoughts 🙏 This movie will not only create History but also create peace' in Mankind, hat's off to Writer Paresh Mokashi &Director Ashish Bende,Thank to all Team,Great work World will follow Sure , I always belive in oneness all are one,God is always with us without reason you have to be aware that awareness & Acceptence & forgiveness is most powerful quality of God,This Movie showing come together & Growth,Love hasn't any borders, spread love,joy & Happiness for the bestest Life, Every one is unique but comes from one'Soul ,we are one say one save one Sevan thanks

Dhanyvad Sirshreeji 🙏

The review title sums up the movie. What if forrest gump was an Indian movie? What events would the protagonist witness and trigger? And if the movie was directed not by spielberg but by wes Anderson and you'll get aatmapamphlet

Good fun movie with lot of dark undersides and jokes. Subtle example of dark humor? Lower caste boy is helping his Brahmin friend with a thorn in the shoe. Both fall down but the Brahmin boy is still interested in the the thorn in his shoe. So many layers in that and a lot of other scenes.

The movie is made such that even of you don't get the dark humor yum still love the movie. True adaption of Forrest Gump.

Aatmapamphlet

It's a Marathi movie but I am writing this in English so that more people understand it and more people watch this movie. It's definitely beyond a language!

A Love letter to the 90s but so much above and beyond nostalgia. Every scene is loaded with meaning and one feels like pausing, rewinding and watching it again. Rather than the typical nationalistic, jingoistic, "in your face"nonsense which sells like hot cakes today this was a breezy, understated movie yet stating so much without actually saying it aloud. There was an underlying innocence not just due to the child actors but throughout the expression of the movie itself and at the same time it was sarcastic and witty. I felt like this should be a compulsory watch for all Indians let alone maharashtrians. Religious and caste discrimination is sadly rampant or rather has increased now and a better film hasn't been made on this topic. What seemingly is a coming-of-age story of the protagonist is actually the coming of age story of our nation. Even the way they chose to end it was so clever, they could have gone down the harsh realistic route but instead they chose utopia which may look like a nicely tied red bow but actually shows the impact every small story can have on a larger scale.

The saddest part was even in a city like Pune the theatre was only half full. We need to encourage regional cinema and brave storytelling as an audience. Please give this movie a chance, it deserves it.