Indian cinema seems to be indeed daring newer territories. These winds of change, I would say, are charming and as audience we, in turn become a part of the process, which brings a pleasant feeling.
Peepli [live] brings afore such a genre of cinema which we've not experienced as much so far. The first thing that attracted my attention was the length of the film- 105mins! How often do we get to see that!? The movie touches the subject that is ever so relevant since the past decade - farmer's suicide and rather the responsiveness of media, policy-makers and we as the countrymen (or shall I say the consumers). Moreover, it plays a satire to the sensationalism that the media and the polity offer to the farmer's question. Their intervention comes, but with little help and the farmers feel only helpless. Are we indeed listening and if yes, with what consequence?
Peepli [live] doesn’t boast of any glittering star-cast and most of the actors hail from theater background. They justify their casting and leave no room for criticism whatsoever, as far as acting is concerned. Omkar Das Manikpuri fits effortlessly into the role of simple, innocent & helpless 'Natha' - who becomes a prime time star on National Television. Raghuveer Yadav, excels in his role of 'Budhia' - the elder brother of Natha. He is the voice of Natha & at times cleverly manipulates Natha. Malaika Shenoy as Nandita - the fire brand english news reporter - is ruthless in her job, which is to increase TRP by any means! The Local reporter 'Rakesh' played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui is earnest & portrays his disillusionment of journalism well. Natha's wife, played by Shalini Vatsa & Natha's mother add to the humor with their constant digs at each other.
Heartfelt congratulations to Aamir khan productions for bringing to us a movie smartly made and wish this proves a harbinger to smart cinema!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Review by - Snehal Khandkar
