Maacher Jhol

I was enthralled by this simple story of life which simply depicts some beautiful truths of life.

An almost flawless film, with a romance of life and food as it is. Particularly Bengalis will appreciate or for that matter any foodie who appreciates a broader palette but that is not all at all - its more of life and relationships, and our decisions in the wake of self discovery. Ritwick is marvellous, fluent and his body language speaks as much as his words. I thought why not 10/10 but then I think 2 or three things made it slightly less genuine - so much celebrity status of the hero is atypical of some Bengali movies I have seen. With Ritwick this wasn't necessary, all the characters were good but I think the father could have contributed more in the story and also I think Mamata is slightly overrated as an actor. Its 2:30 midnight but I had to jot something down - I am not always this elated after watching a movie! Please gimme more :-)

Once, Rituparno Ghosh said 'I don't make Bengali films. I make international films in Bengali language'. And that's actually I sensed today while watching 'Macher Jhol'. A movie made for international market in Bengali language featuring veteran actress Mamata Shankar, Paoli Dam and Ritwick Chakraborty. Other popular actors who were roped in for Macher Jhol are Sauraseni Maitra and Sanjoy Nag.

This movie simply narrates our Bengali culture and masochism of it that forges wALL for blossoming flowers who aspire to achieve their dream.

Dream, five letter word same as your five fingers, if you are covetous to protect it, it will surely take you to zenith by holding your finger and evolving it into a punch for ALL. And that punch has been narrated in this film by Pratim. A real punch indeed! Not only this film will motivate you to aspire whatever thing you have in your heart and mind mutually, however will also inspire you to be independent while choosing your ambition/decision with a courage to share that talent later so that you can be also someone's motivation.

And about Ritwick Chakraborty, I was, am, and will always be his fan. I can't explain him. His works explain him. You really sway me Sir. Every piece is just a master piece. You are leaving a shelf of magnum opuses behind for the upcoming future.

And not the least, being a foodie I could haven't missed this movie. Enjoyed it. Learned too.

Thanks for reading.

The film has a Bangaliana flavour. Which will attract any Bangalee. It's a sweet, soft & lovely film with some very lovely moments. If you observe it deeply, obviously you'll get some good message. Love towards mother & son, waiting for loving one, bad effects of arrange marriage, career choosing problem in Bengalis etc etc. A bad side of the movie is that 3 womens were unnecessarily connected with Ritwick's life. At least Maggie was needed to be eliminated. Ritwick & Paoli as usual given their best effort. Finally, it successfully delivers the message "Do whatever your mind says, instead of that it'll deliver you a great peace in mind".

I am writing this review because this deserves to be watched by foodies and those who are nostalgic about home and the connection that food brings for memories. This is a beautifully made movie and made my husband who is both a foodie and a bengali get teary eyed and nostalgic which is exactly what this movie aimed for. It sort of reminds of Jamie Oliver's statement - cooking is the highest form of giving. Whether you agree with it or not, it is definitely one of the most wonderful ways of connecting. The memory of sitting around food lovingly cooked that is connected with laughter and love - well there are few things that can beat that. If we did more of that, perhaps there would be less mental health problems around. The lead actor was understated, and showed some fine acting. The story flowed at an even space. Beautifully shot, with a fine ensemble of characters, this is a movie that deserves a watch with a plate of your favourite well cooked home food to savour :)