keval_singh

i found this film to be biased in its portrayal of the Partition and thus cannot agree that this one can give an insight to someone who has no clue of the events of 1947.

Anil Sharma seems to have been boosting the ego of the Indian populace, or that section rather, which thinks they are so much better than their neighbor. Indeed, this film seems to suggest that the Sikhs (and by extension, perhaps the Hindus as well), are more benevolent compared to the evil Pakistanis who kill without question. then again, Tara saves Sakina only because he knew her from an earlier period and had developed feelings for her. For all its biasness, perhaps a silver lining is a scene where Sakina asks Tara why he saved her when he was out on a hunt for Muslims like the other men who were trying to capture her. On the whole, however, this film seems skewed at a time when other filmmakers are painstakingly trying to convey a notion of amity between the two warring countries.

one such film is Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi's film, Pinjar (2003). this film gives a more balanced perspective of the partition and suggests that the blame cannot be pushed to just one actor. if one needs to get a better understanding of this cataclysmic event, watch Pinjar. if one prefers to rejoice in bashing the Pakistanis for being "evil", then Gadar is something for you. But do not for one moment think that this is the story to believe. It is only a biased account which seeks to poison minds more than mend ties between people who never knew what was coming their way when they bought the national interests of their leaders.

once again, Aamir Khan shows that he doesn't need star publicity and awards to accentuate his popularity and appeal. it is in fact his versatility as an actor, his intelligent choices that set him apart from the majority of actors in Hindi cinema today. having said that, Rang De Basanti does not only belong to Mr Khan, but to the rest of the cast who excel in their performances (and to all who've shaped the film as we see it). even actors like Waheeda Rahman and Kirron Kher, though sharing a fraction of screen time, essay their roles convincingly and effectively. this begs the question: whoever said you need you need substantial screen time in a film to leave an impression of the character you play? watch this film and you'll know what i mean.

Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's Rang De Basanti is one of the best films i've seen in recent times. for those who expect a mainstream Hindi film experience, this one may not be for you. still, i recommend it strongly for such a film rarely comes by. the dialogs were ace--sarcastic and funny at times, yet hard-hitting. and judging from how film soundtracks are deemed to be an important part of a film, A R Rahman does not disappoint as he shines once again.

nevertheless, everyone has their opinion about this film and how it has affected them in one way or the other. all i can say is that it is not often a film leaves you feeling fired up; its songs, its scenes, and its message playing on in your head.

Rang De Basanti is an exception.