In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones

Doordarshan has always had a bad name, when decades ago, it was the only TV channel in India, and now, when it has been overshadowed by myriads of satellite channels from across the world. But that doesn't mean it was essentially bad - despite its shortcomings and multiple issues, it managed to entertain the public with superb TV serials, entertainment programs and commissioned TV films. IWAGITO is one such late night Doordarshan film, shown in the '80s - seen by few, and remembered by even fewer.

I would urge movie buffs to search out this movie - a digitally re-mastered version is available online, but since the original print was no great shakes, the re-mastered one too has technical issues. But that doesn't take away the film's merits. It is a telling commentary on student life, of several decades ago, when students, even those studying in prestigious institutions, were a deprived lot, due to low levels of income (I, myself, was a student at IIT, Delhi, in the early '80s, surviving on a princely fellowship of Rs 600/- pm. Rs 150/- pm would be deducted as hostel and mess charges, and I would be left with Rs 450/- pm, for my sundry expenses, clothes, and even traveling to my home city). When the internet and cell phone had not made inroads into their lives. In short, when life was much simpler and slower, with its own set of dilemmas, problems, ambitions and tragedies.

Without second thought, I can state that Arundhati shines throughout the film, as a quirky rebel. Others give her character ample support. Roshan Seth is the apt teacher (Dean?), who effectively tries to keep things under control. Amazingly Sharukh Khan, in a very minor side role, appears to be sporting a wig, even then. The razor thin plot line cannot be divulged here. Do see the film for its merits, bold approach and the gung-ho performance of actors / actresses, some who became stars over a period of time.

My heart goes out to people who love art this much.

Just imagine the era when this was made, so ahead of time.

The story is manifold, intelligent, dark, humorous, smart and intriguing , all at the same time.

It showcases how in the early 90s hostels and institutes used to operate. How when you are young, you have dream in your eyes to be different; to change the world.. and eventually hunger and materialism teaches you the reality. There are so many characters and each one has been given enough appearances and lines to establish themselves and boy did they do it beautifully. It takes you on a ride, a wild and bold one, yet it's a happy movie , there are no twists or unnatural shocks to gain the audience's attention, it's a very simple heart-warming movie. It flows like a river, little ebs and turns here and there but rest it just is!

Easily the best campus movie I have seen. Still so relevant. The characters are so lovable and relatable, especially for anyone who has studied in a campus like that of a national institute. Makes one wish to go back in time and live those years of the beginning of the 70s counter culture as a student. I wish these people made more movies. Arundhati in her screenplay, and through her character, asks the right questions. It also is a nuanced and insightful exploration of privilege within the context of higher education in India. Like Radha says, 'May be there is no solution".

P. S: Wish they had a better print of this gem of a movie.

A wonderful movie based on the lifestyle of students of School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi and the relationship they share with the faculty and staff of the institution. Things are pretty much the same even now as its shown in the movie though the amazing technological advancements have changed the lives to a great extent. But the psyche is still the same and will be same forever. Anyone related to architecture in any form will surely enjoy the movie. The story revolves around Anand Grover nicknamed Annie and his experiences in the institution. How his friends help him complete his degree in the college shows the way things actually work in the college even today.

This is a wonderful departure from the typical Indian movie in many regards, the least of which is the language, English. It chronicles the life of students in the hip Delhi School of Architecture and has many intelligent twists and turns. Annie is a male student and I would be giving out too much if I explained what "those ones" are. The movie feels more like an episode from MTV's "Real World" than like any Indian movie I have ever seen. The movie features the writing debut of Arundhati Roy, who later rose to prominence with her novel "God of Small Things". She also stars in the movie along with Roshan Seth. A must see.