Dec 30, 2008 09:07 PM
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It has been quite a few months since it released, but thankfully I did finally choose to watch Mumbai Meri Jaanas soon as the DVD was out. And I am more than glad I did, or else I would have missed the best movie I’ve watched this year- just in time.
I am surprised this movie has gone unnoticed, without the genuine applause it truly deserves. Perhaps, it is also the state of mind atthis time that adds on to the effect. I would definitely recommend aviewing.
The story is about 5-6 different characters and their life on and around the 7th July train blasts in Mumbai in 2006. The stories run parallel and intersect without being gimmicky- very well interspersed.
The concept and the storyline are very strong and each and every small character is very well written. The brilliant bunch of performances only accentuates this true and best cinematic tribute to the city. Itis not an over-the-top, preachy tribute; its more matter of fact and brutally real- just like the city. There is no sugar coating, yet there is an undying hope.
Paresh Rawal, Irffan Khanand KK Menon lend way too much realism to their characters. Easily the best acting I’ve seen this year. Vijay Maurya as an angst ridden cop Kadam is extremely good. So are Soha Ali Khan, Madhavan and almost every other actor.
The film triumphs becauseit presents Mumbai like never before in the media. It exposes thesometimes inhuman and heartless way we and the media handle such incidents. It also talks about fears, guilt, and unity-all without any heavy dialogue. It’s plain, simple and real.
Not to mention the end. It mixes pride, angst, respect and hope- everything that you feel after such unfortunate incidents, especially in this city. It truly encapsulates the “spirit” of Mumbai, without defining it, or glorifying it. The end note is truly moving- a Perfect Ode.
