If there's one man in India whom we could term as the Godfather of Bollywood it would be Aamir Khan. Aamir's third consecutive blockbuster , Peepli Live is the ultimate mockery of the Indian Press and The Indian Government. It pragmatically shows us the extremes of Political Conflict and Media 'Sensations'. One of The peculiarity of this movie is the consistent and coherent digression from the protagonist's dilemma to other subsidary comic stories that come up. These short comic mockeries work out wonders for Peepli Live. Talking about the acting, i would not think twice before saying that these village actors are better than Bollywood actors who could just go do some Advertisements and forget about movies. Natthu ,the protagonist hardly said a word, yet his expression and acting made him an awe-inspiring character on the screen. Even Rajpal Yadav wouldn't have played this part so well. The last phase of the movie was a bit disappointing as compared to the rest of it. The movie literally portrayed no seriousness and gave no chance for sympathy until the 80th minute. Immediately and abruptly after that , the movie ended with a meant-to-be-disturbing ending which failed to achieve its motive of an instant change in mood of the viewers; abandoning us somewhere between sympathy and humour - just like what happens when you laugh out at a prank played in class and the next movement be punished by your teacher. But never mind, the movie delivered what it had to - it probably taught the Indian government and Press a lesson , and gave them strong reason to be ashamed of themselves. Don't miss this one, you never know, you may not get a movie as good as this one for a decade or so - this is BOLLYWOOD after all.
![Peepli [Live] (2010) Poster](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BZTU4NmJkNWEtNmM0ZC00NDkyLThkZDYtZTVkNTQxMTNhOTlhXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyODE5NzE3OTE@._V1_UY98_CR0,0,67,98_AL_.jpg)
49 Reviews
A Nutshell Review: Peepli Live
DICK STEEL13 August 2010
Two nights ago Iwas participating in an online live chat with Aamir Khan (well, along with some 13000 others from around the world) who along with wife Kiran Rao, served as producers for Peepli Live, and as a parting remarked, had urged his fans to encourage their friends, especially those who have never watched an Indian film before, to give this a go, because this is not quite like the stereotypical films Indian cinema churns out with larger than life heroes romancing heroines in fantasy dream worlds.
And it's true, not that Indian cinema has always stuck with that unmistakable notion of how it presents itself, as over the years I've seen independent efforts that churn out hard-hitting stories that are minus the celebrities, but almost always have a message it wants to tell. Peepli Live departs from the usual 3 hours with interval, song and dance routines, to touch on a stark social issue in India – that of poverty and the lives of the rural folk, how inept the government is in lifting its people out of such a plight, and the role of the media that can sometimes get out of hand with less than responsible reporting. Which more mainstream films like Rann and Raajneeti would have also touched upon, but minus the heartfelt comedy that this satire brought along.
Written and directed by Anusha Rizvi in her feature film debut, one cannot escape from the fact that her journalistic background may have paved the way at the harsh yet comical criticism of the media in general, where reporters scramble to scoop and spin their own tales of rural life, and are relentless in their interviews with just about anyone who has an opinion on the issue at hand, that of the voluntary death of one of their own. They poke their noses everywhere, and when things turn dull, even resort to fabrication or plain making a mountain out of a molehill. I cannot deny that part of the fun here is watching how television crew and reporters eagerly camp out, in media circus like fashion, in a fictional state and village of Peepli. Just to get a chance at exclusivity with Naatha (Omkar Das Manikpuri) and brother Budhia (Raghubir Yadav) who seemed the smarter of the two.
These brotherly farmers open the film as we follow them to the city to seek a deferment in their bank loan, failing which the bank has decided to auction off their asset – their land. So an ominous note has rung out, since farmers without land means an automatic death sentence, especially when the land they live on not only provide sustenance, but that of a roof over their heads and that of the aged mother who's at odds with Naatha's wife, and children. They soon learn of an inexplicable government scheme whereby farmers who commit suicide get financial compensation, and soon decide that Naatha take up that offer. Overheard by a local newsman, this soon gets escalated, and the media descends onto the village to wait out and capture Naatha's death live.
Little do the brothers know, being so caught up in their plight of poverty, that their actions have repercussions on a bigger stage, one known as elections, and with politicians scrambling like mad to find an answer to this issue, because if anyone doesn't spin this properly, it'll translate to votes lost. And here Rizvi's subplot shines through again in her very pointed criticism of the way her government, and just about any other government, work, through the usual pointing of fingers between State and Federal lawmakers, and the half- baked schemes that they cook up that generally doesn't benefit anyone (other than looking good themselves), whether consciously knowing that it's a scam, or incompetently just aren't aware. Bootlickers and yes-men bureaucrats get shrewdly dealt with in the story as well.
In fact the slight comedy in the film worked wonders to sugar coat the hard hitting messages that Rizvi had intended to tackle, and frankly this may have dulled those messages a little, and ultimately leave one wondering if there's any genuine change that can be brought to tackle the problems at hand. Surely one cannot expect one film to change entire mindsets overnight, and at best, Peepli Live will leave one thinking about the issues, but unfortunately I suppose that's about where it'll stop at.
I'm not sure whether the usual audiences weaned on Bollywood fare may take to a film that's a social commentary on some of the biggest problems facing the country, since the enduring way of how cinema is presented provides pure escapism from common everyday problems, but Peepli Live should find its legs in the more patient, appreciative film festival circuit. Don't expect Aamir Khan to pop up at all in the film, but if you know how he works, then you'd know that his hand is probably in every aspect of this production.
And it's true, not that Indian cinema has always stuck with that unmistakable notion of how it presents itself, as over the years I've seen independent efforts that churn out hard-hitting stories that are minus the celebrities, but almost always have a message it wants to tell. Peepli Live departs from the usual 3 hours with interval, song and dance routines, to touch on a stark social issue in India – that of poverty and the lives of the rural folk, how inept the government is in lifting its people out of such a plight, and the role of the media that can sometimes get out of hand with less than responsible reporting. Which more mainstream films like Rann and Raajneeti would have also touched upon, but minus the heartfelt comedy that this satire brought along.
Written and directed by Anusha Rizvi in her feature film debut, one cannot escape from the fact that her journalistic background may have paved the way at the harsh yet comical criticism of the media in general, where reporters scramble to scoop and spin their own tales of rural life, and are relentless in their interviews with just about anyone who has an opinion on the issue at hand, that of the voluntary death of one of their own. They poke their noses everywhere, and when things turn dull, even resort to fabrication or plain making a mountain out of a molehill. I cannot deny that part of the fun here is watching how television crew and reporters eagerly camp out, in media circus like fashion, in a fictional state and village of Peepli. Just to get a chance at exclusivity with Naatha (Omkar Das Manikpuri) and brother Budhia (Raghubir Yadav) who seemed the smarter of the two.
These brotherly farmers open the film as we follow them to the city to seek a deferment in their bank loan, failing which the bank has decided to auction off their asset – their land. So an ominous note has rung out, since farmers without land means an automatic death sentence, especially when the land they live on not only provide sustenance, but that of a roof over their heads and that of the aged mother who's at odds with Naatha's wife, and children. They soon learn of an inexplicable government scheme whereby farmers who commit suicide get financial compensation, and soon decide that Naatha take up that offer. Overheard by a local newsman, this soon gets escalated, and the media descends onto the village to wait out and capture Naatha's death live.
Little do the brothers know, being so caught up in their plight of poverty, that their actions have repercussions on a bigger stage, one known as elections, and with politicians scrambling like mad to find an answer to this issue, because if anyone doesn't spin this properly, it'll translate to votes lost. And here Rizvi's subplot shines through again in her very pointed criticism of the way her government, and just about any other government, work, through the usual pointing of fingers between State and Federal lawmakers, and the half- baked schemes that they cook up that generally doesn't benefit anyone (other than looking good themselves), whether consciously knowing that it's a scam, or incompetently just aren't aware. Bootlickers and yes-men bureaucrats get shrewdly dealt with in the story as well.
In fact the slight comedy in the film worked wonders to sugar coat the hard hitting messages that Rizvi had intended to tackle, and frankly this may have dulled those messages a little, and ultimately leave one wondering if there's any genuine change that can be brought to tackle the problems at hand. Surely one cannot expect one film to change entire mindsets overnight, and at best, Peepli Live will leave one thinking about the issues, but unfortunately I suppose that's about where it'll stop at.
I'm not sure whether the usual audiences weaned on Bollywood fare may take to a film that's a social commentary on some of the biggest problems facing the country, since the enduring way of how cinema is presented provides pure escapism from common everyday problems, but Peepli Live should find its legs in the more patient, appreciative film festival circuit. Don't expect Aamir Khan to pop up at all in the film, but if you know how he works, then you'd know that his hand is probably in every aspect of this production.
Peepli Live - Pithy satire clad in slick script
speeechless-817-70567416 August 2010
Anusha Rizvi has a story to tell and she does it all too un-preachily. No sermons. No grandstands. Her narrative, taking care of every nuance, puts the point right across, and manages to move you. She takes a light- hearted approach to a serious issue. The satire, directed at the media and the government, tends to go tad bit overboard, but is hard-hitting and convincing, for most part. Laudable performances by theatre artists Omkar Das Manikpuri as Natha and Raghubir Yadav as Budhia, (Natha's elder brother). A first timer in the Hindi film industry, Omkar Das is sure to take you by surprise. You may not take to him instantly but his childlike vulnerability and subtle ways, win you over, as the story progresses. Be it his tripping in the gobar, or his confiding in Budhia that he doesn't want to suicide, or the tenderness with which he pats the goat, even as he lies cowering from his own set of woes. (Titbit - Apparently, Rizvi spotted Omkar Das at a play in Bhopal. Until then, Amir was suppose to play Natha) Raghubir Yadav is born to act. He emotes flawlessly. One such scene is where he is arguing with Natha over who should suicide. Within a second, he solemnly vows to suicide, all teary-eyed, in the next, he takes a 'relieved' drag off his beedi, having managed to convince innocent Natha to sacrifice his life ;) From the grouchy (yet entertaining) amma (Farookh Zafar), to Natha's nagging wife Dhaniya (Shalini Vatsa); from the B-grade Hindi news channel correspondent Deepak, to the stoic English news channel reporter Nandita (Malaika Shenoy), it's a perfect cast all the way. The film gets drab and predictable in parts but manages to leave an impact, nevertheless!
Beats most of the American movies I've seen this year
P_B_W_Brian16 August 2010
I'm a native American and saw this movie in a theater with maybe 30 Indians (sorry, I'm old enough to find multiple ironies in that sentence). Anyway, I went into this movie with no expectations. Though I've seen a number of Indian movies over the last few years, I knew nothing of this author or director. I laughed out loud more than I have for any Hollywood movie this year. My cohorts found it even funnier than I, but I guarantee you that you don't need to know that much about Indian politics or media to get most of this satire.
It starts with a farmer deciding to commit suicide to get his family the $2000 that may save his farm from foreclosure. From there, the media and government turn it into a circus, stepping all over themselves in their self-serving ways.
It suffers only in minor ways from a few slow spots and odd shifts in tone, but these are worth sitting through. It's currently showing here only at a suburban Atlanta theater that shows a combination of H-wood and B-wood. This should have been picked up by some American distributer when it showed at Sundance. Hopefully, enough people will see it and generate the buzz to get it to a wider audience.
It starts with a farmer deciding to commit suicide to get his family the $2000 that may save his farm from foreclosure. From there, the media and government turn it into a circus, stepping all over themselves in their self-serving ways.
It suffers only in minor ways from a few slow spots and odd shifts in tone, but these are worth sitting through. It's currently showing here only at a suburban Atlanta theater that shows a combination of H-wood and B-wood. This should have been picked up by some American distributer when it showed at Sundance. Hopefully, enough people will see it and generate the buzz to get it to a wider audience.
Excellent !
sanjay-patole14 August 2010
The film is a hard hitting satire about the country, its people and the living conditions. More importantly, it has exposed the Indian psyche. It shows that India is not run by anybody. It runs on its own.
The movie also depicts the news media in its true and natural color. I had personally once noticed that "Knee surgery for the PM" was the headline and "24 farmers commit suicide in a week" was under "News in brief" section. Some news channel report every news item as "Breaking news". Basically, they magnify, marginalize and sometimes distort any news depending upon who controls them. Everyone has vested interests.
All news channels have just one objective. Drive up their rankings. To do that, they will go to any extent.
The movie also depicts politicians in their true color. It is a known fact that they will do anything to win the elections. Well, you cant expect anything else from them because 99% of them are high class thugs.
The movie is not meant for the average Indian who expects the formula (1 hero + 1 heroine + villains + 4 love songs + i item girl song + 4 fight scenes) I loved the language used in the film. It is the way a farmer would speak. No fancy monologues (usually referred to as dialogues). There are a few bad words and I wonder what the impact will be if those are removed.
I strongly recommend this movie because the situations are quite funny and at times you will laugh like crazy.
So go ahead and enjoy!
The movie also depicts the news media in its true and natural color. I had personally once noticed that "Knee surgery for the PM" was the headline and "24 farmers commit suicide in a week" was under "News in brief" section. Some news channel report every news item as "Breaking news". Basically, they magnify, marginalize and sometimes distort any news depending upon who controls them. Everyone has vested interests.
All news channels have just one objective. Drive up their rankings. To do that, they will go to any extent.
The movie also depicts politicians in their true color. It is a known fact that they will do anything to win the elections. Well, you cant expect anything else from them because 99% of them are high class thugs.
The movie is not meant for the average Indian who expects the formula (1 hero + 1 heroine + villains + 4 love songs + i item girl song + 4 fight scenes) I loved the language used in the film. It is the way a farmer would speak. No fancy monologues (usually referred to as dialogues). There are a few bad words and I wonder what the impact will be if those are removed.
I strongly recommend this movie because the situations are quite funny and at times you will laugh like crazy.
So go ahead and enjoy!
Long Overdue
colour-me-kubrick28 August 2010
Satire is always a tricky genre for directors. Always a possibility of making a mockery of a grave situation or making it too serious for the audience (especially Indian) to take it. This balancing act between the poignant and theatrical is a precarious one, which is why Anousha Rizvi's directorial debut is noteworthy. Rizvi, a former reporter/journalist from NDTV brings a more insightful approach to the problem of farmer suicides and dynamics of media coverage.
I am not a great fan of Indian cinema. But every once in a while a movie comes along that shows ambition and reach which is not reminiscent of our cinema in general. The script while focusing on the predicament of farmers also manages to bring in the role of the media and the politicians. Probably, one of the more well rounded scripts in Hindi cinema in recent times.
The plot:-" Natha a poor farmer from Peepli village in the heart of rural India is about to lose his plot of land due to an unpaid government loan. A quick fix to the problem is the very same government's program that aids the families of indebted farmers who have committed suicide. As a means of survival Farmer Natha can choose to die!!! His brother is happy to push him towards this unique 'honor' but Natha is reluctant. Local elections are around the corner and what might have been another unnoticed event turns into a 'cause celebré' with everyone wanting a piece of the action. Political bigwigs, high-ranking bureaucrats, local henchmen and the ever-zealous media descend upon sleepy Peepli to stake their claim. The question on everyone's lips - "Will he or Won't he?" As the mania escalates what will be the fate of Farmer Natha; nobody seems to care how he really feels?"
The criticism levelled out at the film inspite of the positive reviews is the lack of empathy it generates for the state of the farmers. It is a fair argument if those were your expectations from the film. My take is that it wasn't and it shouldn't be a director's prerogative to "effect" the audience. Especially in a satire, where the prime motive is to poke fun at the theatrical failure of system and its participants. Be it "Dr. Strangelove or how I learn to stop worrying and love the bomb" , "Network" , "Wag the dog", "Jaane Bhi do Yaaron" or any other great satire, I never really think the writer was conscious of establishing sympathy or empathy for the characters. Humour in life and films was essentially developed to convey some real harsh absolute truths in a sugar coated manner. We from the cities who our so pre occupied with planning our weekend, our holidays, our Diwali shopping, job appraisal etc can't be realistically expected to be social workers and understand the true plight of the farmers after paying Rs. 200 for an A/c theatre with sofa seat. It is quite incredible how insulated we are from "less privileged".
Of the performances everyone if top notch. Raghuveer Yadav is an explosive talent and I am glad he got this role. On a slight negative, the gag got a bit stretched in second half which could have been edited by 5-10 minutes. It is always a risk in a satire, when unnecessary emphasis is added on an element that audiences have understood, in this case it was of media "sensationalization". I think it was truly insightful in showing political and media nexus and how the cover stories and sound bytes are planned for. Maybe after this, people consuming the news will be more discrete.
I am not a great fan of Indian cinema. But every once in a while a movie comes along that shows ambition and reach which is not reminiscent of our cinema in general. The script while focusing on the predicament of farmers also manages to bring in the role of the media and the politicians. Probably, one of the more well rounded scripts in Hindi cinema in recent times.
The plot:-" Natha a poor farmer from Peepli village in the heart of rural India is about to lose his plot of land due to an unpaid government loan. A quick fix to the problem is the very same government's program that aids the families of indebted farmers who have committed suicide. As a means of survival Farmer Natha can choose to die!!! His brother is happy to push him towards this unique 'honor' but Natha is reluctant. Local elections are around the corner and what might have been another unnoticed event turns into a 'cause celebré' with everyone wanting a piece of the action. Political bigwigs, high-ranking bureaucrats, local henchmen and the ever-zealous media descend upon sleepy Peepli to stake their claim. The question on everyone's lips - "Will he or Won't he?" As the mania escalates what will be the fate of Farmer Natha; nobody seems to care how he really feels?"
The criticism levelled out at the film inspite of the positive reviews is the lack of empathy it generates for the state of the farmers. It is a fair argument if those were your expectations from the film. My take is that it wasn't and it shouldn't be a director's prerogative to "effect" the audience. Especially in a satire, where the prime motive is to poke fun at the theatrical failure of system and its participants. Be it "Dr. Strangelove or how I learn to stop worrying and love the bomb" , "Network" , "Wag the dog", "Jaane Bhi do Yaaron" or any other great satire, I never really think the writer was conscious of establishing sympathy or empathy for the characters. Humour in life and films was essentially developed to convey some real harsh absolute truths in a sugar coated manner. We from the cities who our so pre occupied with planning our weekend, our holidays, our Diwali shopping, job appraisal etc can't be realistically expected to be social workers and understand the true plight of the farmers after paying Rs. 200 for an A/c theatre with sofa seat. It is quite incredible how insulated we are from "less privileged".
Of the performances everyone if top notch. Raghuveer Yadav is an explosive talent and I am glad he got this role. On a slight negative, the gag got a bit stretched in second half which could have been edited by 5-10 minutes. It is always a risk in a satire, when unnecessary emphasis is added on an element that audiences have understood, in this case it was of media "sensationalization". I think it was truly insightful in showing political and media nexus and how the cover stories and sound bytes are planned for. Maybe after this, people consuming the news will be more discrete.
Funny Yet Thought Provoking
naman-avastol14 August 2010
Bollywood is changing finally! Bigtime!! Makers are now finally shifting their focus on realistic movies rather than making movies having same old clichés and melodrama. Latest film to add in the list is Peepli Live. Produced by ever dependable Aamir Khan, the movie has no big name in the star cast but kudos to Débutante Director Anusha Rizwi's superb screenplay and direction and combining with monstrous marketing strategies by Aamir Khan this created waves worldwide.
The subject of the movie is simple yet thought provoking. As India moves to an industrialized economy, farmers are committing suicide. Self- serving politicians at all government levels have been unwilling or unable to do anything about this. While the movie might appear as a spoof on the farmer suicides but it ends up conveying much more and presents some shocking facts.
Peepli residents Natha(Omkar Das) and elder brother Budhia(Raghuveer Yadav)after losing their land to the bank for not paying up their loan take the jest seriously and decide to volunteer. Natha decides to commit suicide and it becomes a big news. Reporters Nandita Malik(Malaika Shenoy), Deepak(Vishal Sharma) and a local reporter Rakesh(Nawazuddin) along with others make it a big issue and eventually the positions of many ministers is at stake. What follows is a very well directed satire.
Anusha Rizwi has handled her directorial debut like a pro.The lingo is earthy and much humour is derived from the manner it is spoken by the characters. Anusha leaves no stone unturned to poke fun of vote hungry politicians. Acting Department is ruled by Omkar Das and Vishal Sharma. Expressions given by the former make his character very endearing and the dialogues spoken by the latter are hilarious. Raghuveer Yadav has enacted his role impressively! Nawazzudin is exceptional as the reporter whose conscience awakens. Shankar Raman's Camera work makes a good impact. Music by Indian Ocean is OK.
To conclude, I would say go for it is you really want to see bollywood coming of its age and of course because its an Aamir Khan Production.
My Rating: 7/10
Thanks & Regards
The subject of the movie is simple yet thought provoking. As India moves to an industrialized economy, farmers are committing suicide. Self- serving politicians at all government levels have been unwilling or unable to do anything about this. While the movie might appear as a spoof on the farmer suicides but it ends up conveying much more and presents some shocking facts.
Peepli residents Natha(Omkar Das) and elder brother Budhia(Raghuveer Yadav)after losing their land to the bank for not paying up their loan take the jest seriously and decide to volunteer. Natha decides to commit suicide and it becomes a big news. Reporters Nandita Malik(Malaika Shenoy), Deepak(Vishal Sharma) and a local reporter Rakesh(Nawazuddin) along with others make it a big issue and eventually the positions of many ministers is at stake. What follows is a very well directed satire.
Anusha Rizwi has handled her directorial debut like a pro.The lingo is earthy and much humour is derived from the manner it is spoken by the characters. Anusha leaves no stone unturned to poke fun of vote hungry politicians. Acting Department is ruled by Omkar Das and Vishal Sharma. Expressions given by the former make his character very endearing and the dialogues spoken by the latter are hilarious. Raghuveer Yadav has enacted his role impressively! Nawazzudin is exceptional as the reporter whose conscience awakens. Shankar Raman's Camera work makes a good impact. Music by Indian Ocean is OK.
To conclude, I would say go for it is you really want to see bollywood coming of its age and of course because its an Aamir Khan Production.
My Rating: 7/10
Thanks & Regards
Take a bow Anusha and Aamir!
vivee00314 August 2010
Peepli (Live) is a movie which had enormous expectancy levels from the trailers and the very fact that it was produced by THE "Aamir Khan Productions" which had gave birth to many enchanting & consummate cinematic experiences on celluloid... It has absolutely educed even more than the hype it produced, with Anusha Rizvi, a débutante, furnishing an outstanding satire on the backdrop of Indian farmer's suicides...
Not getting into the plot, as most of them know it already... What makes this movie into an astounding cinematic experience, is its utmost natural narration and simplicity.. Whether it be the characters, situations, dialogs... all were just near to utmost realistic...! Humour element used throughout the movie was smart as a whip... Loved the movie for another factor, that it was not preachy at all... Ending which was terrifically weaved out, in some ways, reminds me of one of the greatest satires in Malayalam "Panchavadi Paalam"
Anusha Rizvi, being a débutante, doesn't feel like one as the handling of the subject was just awe inspiring... Music and BG were top class... Camera work was good...The screenplay and dialogs were just tight and perfect... Among the performances, the whole cast were literally living their characters in this movie which makes it even more special!
One the whole, one should give a whole hearted standing ovation to Anusha Rizvi and Aamir Khan for making this film a reality,which has an amazing potential to be India's iconic movie in the International circuit!
Not getting into the plot, as most of them know it already... What makes this movie into an astounding cinematic experience, is its utmost natural narration and simplicity.. Whether it be the characters, situations, dialogs... all were just near to utmost realistic...! Humour element used throughout the movie was smart as a whip... Loved the movie for another factor, that it was not preachy at all... Ending which was terrifically weaved out, in some ways, reminds me of one of the greatest satires in Malayalam "Panchavadi Paalam"
Anusha Rizvi, being a débutante, doesn't feel like one as the handling of the subject was just awe inspiring... Music and BG were top class... Camera work was good...The screenplay and dialogs were just tight and perfect... Among the performances, the whole cast were literally living their characters in this movie which makes it even more special!
One the whole, one should give a whole hearted standing ovation to Anusha Rizvi and Aamir Khan for making this film a reality,which has an amazing potential to be India's iconic movie in the International circuit!
To Laugh or Not to
spiritlife17 August 2010
Indian Cinema off late has matured and produces a treat now and then. I would reckon this one was not an out of the league project of Aamir Khan but certainly an earnest effort, given that the director is on debut. The film portrays the bitter truth of rural India, mocks the Indian media and gives a tight slap on the political system and bureaucracy. I went to watch the film with the notion that the film belongs to the comedy genre, but it did not take much time for me to realize it was satire, it was pure dark humor and felt pity for all those ignorant souls in the cinema hall who are just so far away, so disconnected from real India that they could afford to laugh on such irony. It sure would have been a wakeup call for those ignorant souls if they understood the hidden satire, carefully wrapped in humor. God save those who came to watch a comic movie and went out of the hall smiling and mocking the plight of Nathu Ram. As far as acting is concerned, Onkar Das has done a very good job, despite the fact that he gets less chance to showcase his dialog delivery yet he has conveyed director's idea marvelously using his expressions. I believe he has surpassed Raghubir Yadav, who has yet again proved the point that he is still among the best in the business. One liners and abusive lashes of Nathu Ram's mother give you some respite from the serious note of the movie. Though the cast had no star power except Naseeruddin Shah and the director was a débutant, Hats Off to Aamir for delivering yet another Thought Provoking and intriguing gem. The movie succeeds in informing the ignorant urban population, population which believes India is prospering, about the truth of real India. Face the reality dude, time to wake up. A definite one time watch.
When will Chinese directors make a good film like this one?
Hunky Stud12 November 2011
I have seen quite a few Indian films. Most of them are about love with plenty of singing and dancing which can become boring.
This film is a total black comedy. It is not about love, it is entirely different. And if you like this one, you should definitely watch the other one - Well Done Abba! Both films are about poor people dealing with bureaucracy in India. India and China all have large population of farmers, poor people. And both countries have tons of bureaucrats to deal with.
Only in India, can this film be made. If someone wants to make a similar film in China, his/her project will be guaranteed to be rejected by the Chinese government due to its lack of "patriotism". In mainland China, no director can make a movie that is exposing the dark side of the Chinese government.
I enjoy this movie very much. Unlike other Indian films which are almost always more than 2 hours long. This movie ended right on time, only about 90 minutes long. And it didn't have any particular singing or dancing scenes which are really improper for this kind of topic.
I only wish that some Chinese directors can watch this film and the other one "well done abba". And I hope that the Chinese communist government will be overthrown soon, so that Chinese directors can have the freedom to make some good meaningful films just like this one.
This film is a total black comedy. It is not about love, it is entirely different. And if you like this one, you should definitely watch the other one - Well Done Abba! Both films are about poor people dealing with bureaucracy in India. India and China all have large population of farmers, poor people. And both countries have tons of bureaucrats to deal with.
Only in India, can this film be made. If someone wants to make a similar film in China, his/her project will be guaranteed to be rejected by the Chinese government due to its lack of "patriotism". In mainland China, no director can make a movie that is exposing the dark side of the Chinese government.
I enjoy this movie very much. Unlike other Indian films which are almost always more than 2 hours long. This movie ended right on time, only about 90 minutes long. And it didn't have any particular singing or dancing scenes which are really improper for this kind of topic.
I only wish that some Chinese directors can watch this film and the other one "well done abba". And I hope that the Chinese communist government will be overthrown soon, so that Chinese directors can have the freedom to make some good meaningful films just like this one.
Intent and Imperfection
satyanshu_singh15 August 2010
Aniruddha Guha (DNA) writes in his review of 'Peepli Live' that it 'leaves you impressed but unaffected'. I read the fairly positive review, trying to find out whether Guha tries to diagnose the reason behind this impression he gets from the film. Perhaps he does. I'll try to elaborate.
The premise of the film is extremely powerful, as it plays around, in a stark black comedy, the expected death of a poor farmer, Natha. But in spite of brilliant performances, sharp and intelligent lines, and a different, 'real', and believable setting, there seems to be something missing. And that 'something', in my opinion is the mantra all screen writing gurus insist on. I would name it: 'Progression and Pace'.
After establishing the primary conflict of the film, the writer is supposed to take us on a journey. Not to a circus where we sit and wait for performers to exhibit their vibrant colours but to an active, involving journey of human emotions. Irwin Blacker brilliantly puts it as: "Plot is more than a pattern of events: it is the ordering of emotions." To invoke the desired emotional response, the writer has to establish a serious 'want' for the protagonist – what exactly is at stake; the higher the stake, better the chance for drama. But to actually achieve drama, the writer needs to elaborate and enhance the conflict. Create obstacles in the path of the protagonist who is striving to achieve his dramatic need. These obstacles, preferably as harsh as they could be, and the protagonist's efforts to overcome them is what makes drama affecting. His success or failure in doing so is hardly important. And this entire act of confrontation has to crafted with intelligence and an acute critical eye, making sure that each scene takes the story forwards – it progresses from one plot point to the other with a definitive sense of purpose, remembering that each tree is important without losing the idea of the forest.
'Peepli Live' has the 'want' perfectly in place. But it lacks a purposeful progression of story through well-defined obstacles and attempts by the characters to overcome them. Also, the presence, and active involvement of such a large number of secondary characters causes the plot to meander, not meaninglessly, but diluting the force of the impact. There are sequences which do work. But notice carefully – all those instances are strong plot points, high on conflict-want confrontational drama. Of course, this is a very orthodox approach of writing films. And if you are a genius, you can actually make a beautiful and affecting 'circus-like' film on a thin plot if you manage to create memorable characters and sequences, as Fellini did in most of his movies. But for all of us who are not Federico Fellini, and I think most are not, the conventional rule of 'progression with a sense of purpose' is the rule to follow.
This brings me to the 'pace' of the film. Contrary to the common notion, a film need not be 'pacy' to make an impact. It is attaining just the perfect pace suiting the mood of the film that matters. 'Peepli Live' has apparently too many things happening without actual progression of the story during the most of its hundred minutes. The story is stagnant, but the 'events' are happening hurriedly. So, we do not get time to think and feel the drama that is already minimal. Hence, we feel unaffected. The most affecting portion of this satirical film created in overtones is the final sequence, the denouement or the post-climax. Over the faces of Budhiya and Natha's wife, lost over their bleak fate and ignorance about Natha's reality, the camera makes an obvious meandering motion backwards. Kieslowski would use such camera movements to suggest some supernatural 'eye' looking at our characters. I could not help but feel the same as the camera pulls back and after a long journey through villages and towns reaches a modern city. Without a word more of dialogue or staged action, it presents before us the faces of numerous labourers working at a construction site – all migrants from rural India – trying to survive in the inhuman loneliness of the polluted cities? One of them is Natha, and we have just witnessed his story. But wouldn't there be similar, if not equally heart-wrenching, stories behind all of these helpless faces? There is so much conveyed during this entire closing sequence. And although the closing title reduces it to a 'fact' about farmers in India who have left agriculture and spoils the understated brilliance of it for me, it still succeeds fairly. Notice that this entire sequence has only one strong dramatic reveal; otherwise it is just the stagnancy of its progression, or the 'slow' pace that generates such a strong emotional response in us.
'Peepli Live' would work better in its repeat viewings, when you already know the story, its nature and limitations. It's then that the wonderful detailing and the 'moments' in its narration will make you smile. Its business story and importance, or the lack of it, in Hindi cinema history will always be worth discussing. But to understand the triumph of cinema, we need to keep these aside. The intent of a movie and the courage behind its making must be applauded if it deserves that. And after having done that justly, to really understand the cinematic achievement of it, the craft of the film should be analyzed. Perfection is not the prerequisite for great art, it is the stimulation that it provides to the audience is what matters. 'Peepli Live' does that, by not only making you think about the social issue it addresses but also, if you are interested, by inspiring you to diagnose the merits and demerits of its craft as a work of cinema. That, I believe, is enough of an accomplishment.
The premise of the film is extremely powerful, as it plays around, in a stark black comedy, the expected death of a poor farmer, Natha. But in spite of brilliant performances, sharp and intelligent lines, and a different, 'real', and believable setting, there seems to be something missing. And that 'something', in my opinion is the mantra all screen writing gurus insist on. I would name it: 'Progression and Pace'.
After establishing the primary conflict of the film, the writer is supposed to take us on a journey. Not to a circus where we sit and wait for performers to exhibit their vibrant colours but to an active, involving journey of human emotions. Irwin Blacker brilliantly puts it as: "Plot is more than a pattern of events: it is the ordering of emotions." To invoke the desired emotional response, the writer has to establish a serious 'want' for the protagonist – what exactly is at stake; the higher the stake, better the chance for drama. But to actually achieve drama, the writer needs to elaborate and enhance the conflict. Create obstacles in the path of the protagonist who is striving to achieve his dramatic need. These obstacles, preferably as harsh as they could be, and the protagonist's efforts to overcome them is what makes drama affecting. His success or failure in doing so is hardly important. And this entire act of confrontation has to crafted with intelligence and an acute critical eye, making sure that each scene takes the story forwards – it progresses from one plot point to the other with a definitive sense of purpose, remembering that each tree is important without losing the idea of the forest.
'Peepli Live' has the 'want' perfectly in place. But it lacks a purposeful progression of story through well-defined obstacles and attempts by the characters to overcome them. Also, the presence, and active involvement of such a large number of secondary characters causes the plot to meander, not meaninglessly, but diluting the force of the impact. There are sequences which do work. But notice carefully – all those instances are strong plot points, high on conflict-want confrontational drama. Of course, this is a very orthodox approach of writing films. And if you are a genius, you can actually make a beautiful and affecting 'circus-like' film on a thin plot if you manage to create memorable characters and sequences, as Fellini did in most of his movies. But for all of us who are not Federico Fellini, and I think most are not, the conventional rule of 'progression with a sense of purpose' is the rule to follow.
This brings me to the 'pace' of the film. Contrary to the common notion, a film need not be 'pacy' to make an impact. It is attaining just the perfect pace suiting the mood of the film that matters. 'Peepli Live' has apparently too many things happening without actual progression of the story during the most of its hundred minutes. The story is stagnant, but the 'events' are happening hurriedly. So, we do not get time to think and feel the drama that is already minimal. Hence, we feel unaffected. The most affecting portion of this satirical film created in overtones is the final sequence, the denouement or the post-climax. Over the faces of Budhiya and Natha's wife, lost over their bleak fate and ignorance about Natha's reality, the camera makes an obvious meandering motion backwards. Kieslowski would use such camera movements to suggest some supernatural 'eye' looking at our characters. I could not help but feel the same as the camera pulls back and after a long journey through villages and towns reaches a modern city. Without a word more of dialogue or staged action, it presents before us the faces of numerous labourers working at a construction site – all migrants from rural India – trying to survive in the inhuman loneliness of the polluted cities? One of them is Natha, and we have just witnessed his story. But wouldn't there be similar, if not equally heart-wrenching, stories behind all of these helpless faces? There is so much conveyed during this entire closing sequence. And although the closing title reduces it to a 'fact' about farmers in India who have left agriculture and spoils the understated brilliance of it for me, it still succeeds fairly. Notice that this entire sequence has only one strong dramatic reveal; otherwise it is just the stagnancy of its progression, or the 'slow' pace that generates such a strong emotional response in us.
'Peepli Live' would work better in its repeat viewings, when you already know the story, its nature and limitations. It's then that the wonderful detailing and the 'moments' in its narration will make you smile. Its business story and importance, or the lack of it, in Hindi cinema history will always be worth discussing. But to understand the triumph of cinema, we need to keep these aside. The intent of a movie and the courage behind its making must be applauded if it deserves that. And after having done that justly, to really understand the cinematic achievement of it, the craft of the film should be analyzed. Perfection is not the prerequisite for great art, it is the stimulation that it provides to the audience is what matters. 'Peepli Live' does that, by not only making you think about the social issue it addresses but also, if you are interested, by inspiring you to diagnose the merits and demerits of its craft as a work of cinema. That, I believe, is enough of an accomplishment.
Dark Comedy and Deals with a Serious current Issue
psarjun27 September 2010
Story: Story of two farmers Face loosing their land for an unpaid Government loan. At the time of National Elections they seek help from a Local Politician who suggests to commit suicide to get the benefit to their families.
* The Director and Producer deserve thumps up for coming with a movie with current issue - Farmers committing Suicide. * You too would have noticed 'What the News Channels' Want?! They are also marketing something, yes SO CALLED NEWS. And they market like anything. 'Death Toll Reaches 50 and Expected to reach 100 by Tomorrow morning', 'Breaking New - MLA's Sister had Knee Injury' etc..
Bollywood - Its very happy see this kind of movies in an Industry where Actors become just a Marketing Executive for their loose Products. Though there are a lot of Directors who just copies and rips from Hollywood or South Indian Movies, there are also few and very few directors and Productions houses who try to come up with new Innovative ideas. UTV is one such Brand and its great to see Aamir Khan producing as Movie in the kind of changing Bollywood to more meaningful.
The style of Director is sharp and strong though the director missed to convey a message - but sticked in to the story and left no Message. The film explores the response of the media. Many Scenes of the film spoofs the Internet and TV Media and Politics. The Natural and Simple Narration will take you to those good old Days where only good movies where produced. Problems of Farmers was usual topic in Malayalam Movies but Post 2000 - this is the best movie about Farmers to come in India.
Bollywood rarely make Sensible movies and Rarely does the Fans make them Box Office HIT. Different Attempt is not accepted easily in North comparing to South of India (Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada) wishing to see more people watching this movie. Promoting this movie only makes Bollywood Look better. Let they come up with more meaningful Movies here after.
* The Director and Producer deserve thumps up for coming with a movie with current issue - Farmers committing Suicide. * You too would have noticed 'What the News Channels' Want?! They are also marketing something, yes SO CALLED NEWS. And they market like anything. 'Death Toll Reaches 50 and Expected to reach 100 by Tomorrow morning', 'Breaking New - MLA's Sister had Knee Injury' etc..
Bollywood - Its very happy see this kind of movies in an Industry where Actors become just a Marketing Executive for their loose Products. Though there are a lot of Directors who just copies and rips from Hollywood or South Indian Movies, there are also few and very few directors and Productions houses who try to come up with new Innovative ideas. UTV is one such Brand and its great to see Aamir Khan producing as Movie in the kind of changing Bollywood to more meaningful.
The style of Director is sharp and strong though the director missed to convey a message - but sticked in to the story and left no Message. The film explores the response of the media. Many Scenes of the film spoofs the Internet and TV Media and Politics. The Natural and Simple Narration will take you to those good old Days where only good movies where produced. Problems of Farmers was usual topic in Malayalam Movies but Post 2000 - this is the best movie about Farmers to come in India.
Bollywood rarely make Sensible movies and Rarely does the Fans make them Box Office HIT. Different Attempt is not accepted easily in North comparing to South of India (Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada) wishing to see more people watching this movie. Promoting this movie only makes Bollywood Look better. Let they come up with more meaningful Movies here after.
peepli live over-hyped
siddharthkunwar15 August 2010
Warning: Spoilers
i went in with loads of expectations.. but unluckily could not get what i thought of. although a good movie but lacks humor and a good story. in showing the realty of India this movie is par excellent. but it could have been better,because aamir is known to make better and legendary movies than this one. a one time watch is must. actors have done their job pretty well and ragubir yadav deserves special accolades. The lady doing the role of amma is a treat to watch in the movie. the film has imitated the ongoing rush for trp's by the media well enough. the fact file presented is also worth applauding. although movie hangs a bit in between but in the second half it takes a good pace. i hope that our politicians can get some lessons out of it.
Disappointing and Depressing
ojasmehta116 August 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I watched the movie Peepli Live today, and it left me disappointed and depressed. I already know the current state of India, how it is soiled in corruption, red tape and dirty politics – what I didn't learn is how can I make a difference
what I, the Common Man of India can do today to ensure a more prosperous tomorrow. The movie had plenty of Masala, its fair share of Profanities (were they trying to say its commonplace in India? – I know that too), lots of humor, pathetic and sorry humor that should make every Indian cry in shame about his country and vow to make a difference. But no, the effect it had on my fellow countrymen was
frantic laughter. Ironic is an understatement for the movie; Tragic is a more apt word. Tragic not because the "big-shot" director Aamir Khan decided to make a film exposing the true face of "Real India, Poor India" (yet again). No, tragic because he made no attempt at encouraging his countrymen to take some action in fixing it. He did a better job encouraging (urging) the youth to take up violent measures, through another of his blockbusters, Rang De Basanti. This movie then must be condemned by fervent nationals the same way Slumdog Millionaire was
only worse
because Slumdog was a Hollywood film, made by a foreigner, who didn't care about his country anyway. No far worse, because Aamir Khan is this self proclaimed activist and catalyst of change, who allegedly vowed to give part of his Taare Zameen Par earnings out as development fund to schools. Not a penny has been received by any school yet, says a friend and senior student of politics, Devendra Pai.
It's as simple as this – movies are made to entertain, with a side motive being educating and uplifting the masses. But movies like Peepli Live, that take India's case apart, and that too in a cheeky mockery, must be banned from public broadcast, unless they feature some relief, some take-home for the audience, that they might use as a starting point in overcoming the same painful issues that they have now made a laughing stock of. Undoubtedly, movies direct wandering minds (youths, our country's future), inspire and induce action – and certainly any efforts to exacerbate our country's predicament, through the media or otherwise, must be curbed. (as featured on my personal log http://bit.ly/cucf0M)
It's as simple as this – movies are made to entertain, with a side motive being educating and uplifting the masses. But movies like Peepli Live, that take India's case apart, and that too in a cheeky mockery, must be banned from public broadcast, unless they feature some relief, some take-home for the audience, that they might use as a starting point in overcoming the same painful issues that they have now made a laughing stock of. Undoubtedly, movies direct wandering minds (youths, our country's future), inspire and induce action – and certainly any efforts to exacerbate our country's predicament, through the media or otherwise, must be curbed. (as featured on my personal log http://bit.ly/cucf0M)
Chola Maati ke Raam
unclewalker1 November 2010
(2/2)Actors have done their job in the most remarkable way.Raghuveer Yadav can win an Oscar for that but alas Academy is Bollywood- blind.Omkar Das is very natural.The actor playing reporter Deepak is a revelation.Aamir could have done a cameo.
(2/2)The story is a wonderful satire.Rizvi being a retired-reporter knew the nuts and bolts of the dirty business.The subplot of Hori Mehto remind us of Do Bheega Zamin.
(1/2)Direction of Rizvi collapsed in the last half hour of the movie.The subplot was wasted and climax was done in a hurry.
(2/2)The music/score is this year's best.Indian Ocean are superb.Chola Mati ke Raam,Mehngai Daayan,Desh Mera,Aadmi are all well crafted.
(2/2)Yes,the movie do have a X-FACTOR.Well paced and presented in the current inflation scenario.
(2/2)The story is a wonderful satire.Rizvi being a retired-reporter knew the nuts and bolts of the dirty business.The subplot of Hori Mehto remind us of Do Bheega Zamin.
(1/2)Direction of Rizvi collapsed in the last half hour of the movie.The subplot was wasted and climax was done in a hurry.
(2/2)The music/score is this year's best.Indian Ocean are superb.Chola Mati ke Raam,Mehngai Daayan,Desh Mera,Aadmi are all well crafted.
(2/2)Yes,the movie do have a X-FACTOR.Well paced and presented in the current inflation scenario.
Foul mouthed Truisms and Suave lies.
lediscipledessocrates18 August 2010
Contrary to my gut feeling Peepli Live wasn't too bad a movie to catch , especially when you are looking for entertainment in it's more rudimentary form.
Minimalist in her approach, The director of this movie has proved beyond a doubt that melodrama and reality are two very different and hardly reconcilable things. Bare naked in it's projection of Indian Villages, the movie is what Khosla K Ghosla was to the middle class. In fact one feels nauseatic watching those ridiculous 80's 90's flicks where village folk were depicted as specimens from a high end fancy dress exhibition. With damsels wearing mutlicoloured , skimpy clothes and men wearing hideous outfits bearing no similarity whatsoever with the actual village attires.
Peepli on the other hand treats everything as it is. The movie is devoid of glamour, any glamour. Which means the movie , given it's theme, is good.
There are no subplots which drag the viewer away into romantic liaisons. No sugary silver linings here.
The entire cast fits in well with the theme and also makes us wonder as to how can all those Khans, Kapoors , Khannas call themselves actors .I mean the actors in the movie didn't give away anything.
The script however was ridden with too many profanities for comfort. The movie could have done without them as well . But that's creative freedom and also gave some folks in the theatre something to cheer about.
The movie is good.
Minimalist in her approach, The director of this movie has proved beyond a doubt that melodrama and reality are two very different and hardly reconcilable things. Bare naked in it's projection of Indian Villages, the movie is what Khosla K Ghosla was to the middle class. In fact one feels nauseatic watching those ridiculous 80's 90's flicks where village folk were depicted as specimens from a high end fancy dress exhibition. With damsels wearing mutlicoloured , skimpy clothes and men wearing hideous outfits bearing no similarity whatsoever with the actual village attires.
Peepli on the other hand treats everything as it is. The movie is devoid of glamour, any glamour. Which means the movie , given it's theme, is good.
There are no subplots which drag the viewer away into romantic liaisons. No sugary silver linings here.
The entire cast fits in well with the theme and also makes us wonder as to how can all those Khans, Kapoors , Khannas call themselves actors .I mean the actors in the movie didn't give away anything.
The script however was ridden with too many profanities for comfort. The movie could have done without them as well . But that's creative freedom and also gave some folks in the theatre something to cheer about.
The movie is good.
Breaking News: Live telecast of Non-India shining
AvinashPatalay22 November 2010
When Mr. Perfectionist steps in to overlook the proceedings the chances of the product going wrong are minimal. He of course brings in his experience and cinematic sensibilities on board to the project. "Peepli Live" indeed shapes up to a good product and cleverly positioned for garnering accolades at the Film Festivals and more importantly the Oscars statuettes which has been eluding Aamir Khan for nearly a decade now.
"Peepli Live" pays tribute to the doyens of parallel Indian cinema (Satyajit Ray, Shyam Benegal, Ritwick Ghatak). The look and feel reminds you of the arty products the audience has witnessed in the era of 70's & 80's ("Pather Panchali", "Ankur", "Manthan", "Disha" etc). Satires are still a road less travelled for Indian cinema and "Peepli Live" blends the ingredient to jibe at Laxman's world around us. Having said that the protagonist is nothing short of the pocket cartoon itself offering a rural slice of life which "India Shining" repeatedly opts to play ostrich hoping the problem would simply go away and never return. Doesn't that actually sound like a definition of suicide itself?
A known face would have come with its baggage and potentially worked against for the movie. A fresh face works wonderfully for "Peepli Live". Omkar Das Manikpuri breathes life into "Nut Tha". His look, costumes, personality or his gait, everything contributes to the authentic feel.
Raghuvir Yadav needs no introduction. He is accomplished performer in his own right.
Naseeruddin Shah has a very small screen time but as usual delivers.
Performances of every actor in the movie deserves a special mention.
The writing on the wall is clear, special attention is given to every aspect of "Peepli Live". Characterisation, location, costumes, language or folk songs - everything add up to linger in our heads for a while.
Finally it is my opinion that the movie is a clever amalgamation of "Main Azaad Hoon" and "Rann" doused with cinematic sensibilities of parallel cinema.
"Peepli Live" pays tribute to the doyens of parallel Indian cinema (Satyajit Ray, Shyam Benegal, Ritwick Ghatak). The look and feel reminds you of the arty products the audience has witnessed in the era of 70's & 80's ("Pather Panchali", "Ankur", "Manthan", "Disha" etc). Satires are still a road less travelled for Indian cinema and "Peepli Live" blends the ingredient to jibe at Laxman's world around us. Having said that the protagonist is nothing short of the pocket cartoon itself offering a rural slice of life which "India Shining" repeatedly opts to play ostrich hoping the problem would simply go away and never return. Doesn't that actually sound like a definition of suicide itself?
A known face would have come with its baggage and potentially worked against for the movie. A fresh face works wonderfully for "Peepli Live". Omkar Das Manikpuri breathes life into "Nut Tha". His look, costumes, personality or his gait, everything contributes to the authentic feel.
Raghuvir Yadav needs no introduction. He is accomplished performer in his own right.
Naseeruddin Shah has a very small screen time but as usual delivers.
Performances of every actor in the movie deserves a special mention.
The writing on the wall is clear, special attention is given to every aspect of "Peepli Live". Characterisation, location, costumes, language or folk songs - everything add up to linger in our heads for a while.
Finally it is my opinion that the movie is a clever amalgamation of "Main Azaad Hoon" and "Rann" doused with cinematic sensibilities of parallel cinema.
A Joy/Sad Ride!
namashi_116 August 2010
Anusha Rizvi's 'Peepli Live' is a terrific film, that leaves you baffled. Rizvi's screenplay is innovative, while her direction is sharp. Produced by India's current No.1 Superstar Aamir Khan, here'a film that you'll remember for quite sometime.
A satire on the farmers' suicides and subsequent media and political response. Will Natha Die? Will Natha Live? That's the question we've been wanting to know, ever since, the promos hit the air. The answer to that... I suggest you make sometime and visit this tragic-comedy and know yourself!
However, 'Peepli Live' is not without his shed of minuses. The first hour, especially, is very slow. Also, the film tends to get too Loud and Irritating at times. For example, the portions between Natha's wife & his Amma are annoying. The Amma screams her lungs out! These minuses cannot be forgotten!
Coming to the acting, Raghubir Yadav is fantastic as the selfish brother of Natha. Omkar Das Manikpuri as Natha, is quite good. Farookh Zafar as Amma, is irritating! Shalini Vatsa is loud as well. Naseer bhai, repeats his act. Malaika Shenoy is very good. Nawazuddin Siddiqui is effective, in a brief role. Others do a fine job.
On the whole, A must watch film! But, again, it's no flawless film. Mast hai, Zabardast Nahin!
A satire on the farmers' suicides and subsequent media and political response. Will Natha Die? Will Natha Live? That's the question we've been wanting to know, ever since, the promos hit the air. The answer to that... I suggest you make sometime and visit this tragic-comedy and know yourself!
However, 'Peepli Live' is not without his shed of minuses. The first hour, especially, is very slow. Also, the film tends to get too Loud and Irritating at times. For example, the portions between Natha's wife & his Amma are annoying. The Amma screams her lungs out! These minuses cannot be forgotten!
Coming to the acting, Raghubir Yadav is fantastic as the selfish brother of Natha. Omkar Das Manikpuri as Natha, is quite good. Farookh Zafar as Amma, is irritating! Shalini Vatsa is loud as well. Naseer bhai, repeats his act. Malaika Shenoy is very good. Nawazuddin Siddiqui is effective, in a brief role. Others do a fine job.
On the whole, A must watch film! But, again, it's no flawless film. Mast hai, Zabardast Nahin!
The anti-Bollywood film....
planktonrules14 September 2016
I like Indian movies and have seen a couple hundred of them. However, when it comes to the Indian films we get here in the States, the formulaic romances with gorgeous actors make up almost all of the movies. Because of that, I was thrilled to find "Peepli Live" because it's actually about normal folks...folks who have darker skin, aren't immensely wealthy and have real world problems. It was also nice that the film itself was very darkly funny and very insightful about the world.
The film is set in the agrarian town of Peepli. Just about everyone there is a poor farmer and Natha is about as poor and miserable a guy as you could find there. He is about to lose his farm and his family is made up of three of the most god-awful people you could imagine. His wife is a hateful shrew, this mother is a mentally deranged shrew and his brother is a nasty manipulator. So, when Natha and his brother learn that the government is inexplicably handing out death benefits to farmers' families when there is a suicide, the brother goes into manipulation mode. The brother says he will kill himself for the good of his family...though before Natha knows it, he is the one who has promised to kill himself!
While normally Natha would just kill himself and that would be that, when he tells people his plans, things begin getting out of hand. Soon, he becomes a celebrity and the media descend on the town like locusts. It's obvious none of these people or the government officials who follow care one bit about Natha or the farmers...they just want to exploit the situation to their own ends. Some folks try to bribe him with the most useless bribes NOT to kill himself, while others try to bribe him with equally useless things to carry one with his plans! All the while, Natha is just overwhelmed and never receives any real kindness. How does this dark film about the shallowness of politicians and the media play out? See the movie and find out for yourself.
In many ways, this film is like a modern Indian version of the classic Hollywood film, "Ace in a Hole". Both are very dark films about the 'news' and how the media manipulates us and both are very insightful. Some of my favorite moments in "Peepli Live" were Natha being given a TV (even though he didn't have electricity) and newscasters coming up with crazy polls such as the one where "7% of the folks blame the United States for Natha's predicament"! Crazy and very well made. Perhaps too darkly funny for many tastes but I am very glad I saw it.
The film is set in the agrarian town of Peepli. Just about everyone there is a poor farmer and Natha is about as poor and miserable a guy as you could find there. He is about to lose his farm and his family is made up of three of the most god-awful people you could imagine. His wife is a hateful shrew, this mother is a mentally deranged shrew and his brother is a nasty manipulator. So, when Natha and his brother learn that the government is inexplicably handing out death benefits to farmers' families when there is a suicide, the brother goes into manipulation mode. The brother says he will kill himself for the good of his family...though before Natha knows it, he is the one who has promised to kill himself!
While normally Natha would just kill himself and that would be that, when he tells people his plans, things begin getting out of hand. Soon, he becomes a celebrity and the media descend on the town like locusts. It's obvious none of these people or the government officials who follow care one bit about Natha or the farmers...they just want to exploit the situation to their own ends. Some folks try to bribe him with the most useless bribes NOT to kill himself, while others try to bribe him with equally useless things to carry one with his plans! All the while, Natha is just overwhelmed and never receives any real kindness. How does this dark film about the shallowness of politicians and the media play out? See the movie and find out for yourself.
In many ways, this film is like a modern Indian version of the classic Hollywood film, "Ace in a Hole". Both are very dark films about the 'news' and how the media manipulates us and both are very insightful. Some of my favorite moments in "Peepli Live" were Natha being given a TV (even though he didn't have electricity) and newscasters coming up with crazy polls such as the one where "7% of the folks blame the United States for Natha's predicament"! Crazy and very well made. Perhaps too darkly funny for many tastes but I am very glad I saw it.
Funny in parts but empty in the end
kunalkhandwala16 August 2010
The destitute condition of India's rural areas and depravity in business and politics have been depicted on screen with three distinct approaches. Documentary style, satirical and revolutionizing."Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron" is among the greatest comedies and political satires ever made with its take on builders, politicians and the plight of the common man when muddled in a conniving cover-up plot. "Swades" depicted rural India's real deprived conditions from the eyes of an outsider who was keen to change things from the ground level. Its docu-drama style with some memorable characters had an impact that can be simply defined as 'moving'. Then, we have "Rang De Basanti" that redefined the way we think about our attitudes while instigating the desire to be bold, inspiring and rebellious in the midst of India's corrupt political and business environment. Peepli (live) does not follow any of those approaches. Director Anusha Rizvi attempts a social satire about the plight of farmers who are unable to provide for their families and while the film maybe able to touch you, it does little to Move you.
The film tends to look like a documentary by Doordarshan while also going overboard with its satirical take on media's exposure of events. Natha, played by Omkar Das is encouraged by his brother Budhia (Raghuvir Yadav) to commit suicide as upon his death, the government would grant a lot of money to his family. While the ensuing effects of a local reporter overhearing Natha's plan build to some funny situations with media's extensive coverage in Peepli, the broader ramifications would threaten the state election campaign of the prevailing party.
There are some noteworthy scenes that Anusha Rizvi deserves appreciation for:
-The heated debate in the newsroom with Naseeruddin Shah as the Agriculture minister -The arrival of the media bandwagon to the small village of Peepli -Backward classes leader 'Pappulal' gaining political footage by rewarding Natha and guaranteeing his death in front of the media -Hori Mahatho's angle to portray irony and tragedy to the happenings in Peepli while lending some gravity to stir up your conscience. -Reporter Rakesh's conclusion -The symbolic journey of the camera in the end to travel far away from Peepli to Delhi
The cinematography throughout is remarkable. From camcorder like footage to capturing simplistic visuals of the village, its characters and the closing sequence of the journey, the picturization is very different in making reality look real.
But like all movies, the whole cannot be made of such few parts. Peepli has numerous subtle flaws that simply leave an empty feeling in the end. Yes, the tale is touching and the sad state of affairs of our country's majority is tragic but there was immense potential to do a lot more with a subject like this. Peepli does lack memorable performances. Veteran actors like Naseeruddin Shah and Raghuvir Yadav have been wasted in roles that made little impact.
Kundan Shah's 'Jaane bhi do Yaaron' is a legend because the common man viewed his circumstances as a tragedy while the rest were comedians determined to cover up their folly in a satirical plot. Peepli tends to be a satire on the plight of farmers who cannot afford to make ends meet and support their families. While it does so in brilliant fashion in many scenes with the media, concerned citizens with their candles and overconfident politicians, it gets repetitive, loud (Old Mother and wife), superfluous (media covering Natha's morning ritual) and detachable. The last adjective has been deliberately used because towards the end of all the drama, one does not really empathize with Natha's condition simply because you tend to lose your bearings on whether to be sympathetic, angry, frustrated or to just laugh it out.
The second half of the film introduces some gravity with Hori Mahatho's character, Rakesh the reporter and the lost Natha and it stops being the satire that we laughed over for the first half. Now all of a sudden, we are to become serious, empathize with Natha's situation, understand the TRP hungry media's role in the story and think how this can be stopped! But there too, the movie falls flat. In the midst of development, we see Natha even more helpless than he was with his own people. Imagine if 'Mohan Bhargava' had remained in the USA at the end of Swades or if our revolutionaries in Rang de Basanti had moved on with their lives in college instead of storming into All India Radio.... That is exactly how Peepli decides to let you go. You come out with awareness about a farmer's helpless situation but wonder if it could be changed, or whether it was all to be taken with a pinch of salt or if there was an alternative to end such misery. In short, you go in empty and walk out empty.
Mehengai Dayain is true to the film's first half characteristic of poking at reality and while it's a laudable effort by the village troupe, it is not very likely that you will listen to it out of choice at home/car/train/office. What does stand out is Indian Ocean's exemplary work with Zindagi se and Des mera. The music is fusion Desi in true Indian Ocean style with rich lyrics and soulfulness. Unlike those lyrics, the film is unfortunately quite empty on the dialog front.
For those who haven't walked through small villages may find the film's backdrop quite overwhelming and disturbing and may hopefully donate a color TV or so to a deserving farmer but the rest of us who have seen some reality even though from afar, will find little worth applauding for in this 90 odd minute saga of suicidal farmers, power hungry politicians and blatantly sensational media. Peepli (live) will nevertheless be the most outstanding example of how an impeccable iconic figure like Aamir Khan can turn a haystack into a jeweler's store.
6.88 on a scale of 1-10.
The film tends to look like a documentary by Doordarshan while also going overboard with its satirical take on media's exposure of events. Natha, played by Omkar Das is encouraged by his brother Budhia (Raghuvir Yadav) to commit suicide as upon his death, the government would grant a lot of money to his family. While the ensuing effects of a local reporter overhearing Natha's plan build to some funny situations with media's extensive coverage in Peepli, the broader ramifications would threaten the state election campaign of the prevailing party.
There are some noteworthy scenes that Anusha Rizvi deserves appreciation for:
-The heated debate in the newsroom with Naseeruddin Shah as the Agriculture minister -The arrival of the media bandwagon to the small village of Peepli -Backward classes leader 'Pappulal' gaining political footage by rewarding Natha and guaranteeing his death in front of the media -Hori Mahatho's angle to portray irony and tragedy to the happenings in Peepli while lending some gravity to stir up your conscience. -Reporter Rakesh's conclusion -The symbolic journey of the camera in the end to travel far away from Peepli to Delhi
The cinematography throughout is remarkable. From camcorder like footage to capturing simplistic visuals of the village, its characters and the closing sequence of the journey, the picturization is very different in making reality look real.
But like all movies, the whole cannot be made of such few parts. Peepli has numerous subtle flaws that simply leave an empty feeling in the end. Yes, the tale is touching and the sad state of affairs of our country's majority is tragic but there was immense potential to do a lot more with a subject like this. Peepli does lack memorable performances. Veteran actors like Naseeruddin Shah and Raghuvir Yadav have been wasted in roles that made little impact.
Kundan Shah's 'Jaane bhi do Yaaron' is a legend because the common man viewed his circumstances as a tragedy while the rest were comedians determined to cover up their folly in a satirical plot. Peepli tends to be a satire on the plight of farmers who cannot afford to make ends meet and support their families. While it does so in brilliant fashion in many scenes with the media, concerned citizens with their candles and overconfident politicians, it gets repetitive, loud (Old Mother and wife), superfluous (media covering Natha's morning ritual) and detachable. The last adjective has been deliberately used because towards the end of all the drama, one does not really empathize with Natha's condition simply because you tend to lose your bearings on whether to be sympathetic, angry, frustrated or to just laugh it out.
The second half of the film introduces some gravity with Hori Mahatho's character, Rakesh the reporter and the lost Natha and it stops being the satire that we laughed over for the first half. Now all of a sudden, we are to become serious, empathize with Natha's situation, understand the TRP hungry media's role in the story and think how this can be stopped! But there too, the movie falls flat. In the midst of development, we see Natha even more helpless than he was with his own people. Imagine if 'Mohan Bhargava' had remained in the USA at the end of Swades or if our revolutionaries in Rang de Basanti had moved on with their lives in college instead of storming into All India Radio.... That is exactly how Peepli decides to let you go. You come out with awareness about a farmer's helpless situation but wonder if it could be changed, or whether it was all to be taken with a pinch of salt or if there was an alternative to end such misery. In short, you go in empty and walk out empty.
Mehengai Dayain is true to the film's first half characteristic of poking at reality and while it's a laudable effort by the village troupe, it is not very likely that you will listen to it out of choice at home/car/train/office. What does stand out is Indian Ocean's exemplary work with Zindagi se and Des mera. The music is fusion Desi in true Indian Ocean style with rich lyrics and soulfulness. Unlike those lyrics, the film is unfortunately quite empty on the dialog front.
For those who haven't walked through small villages may find the film's backdrop quite overwhelming and disturbing and may hopefully donate a color TV or so to a deserving farmer but the rest of us who have seen some reality even though from afar, will find little worth applauding for in this 90 odd minute saga of suicidal farmers, power hungry politicians and blatantly sensational media. Peepli (live) will nevertheless be the most outstanding example of how an impeccable iconic figure like Aamir Khan can turn a haystack into a jeweler's store.
6.88 on a scale of 1-10.
Brilliant!!!
wireless-heaven13 August 2010
Peepli is another piece of magic from Amir Khan Productions. The best part of the movie is that it raises issues without getting melodramatic and preachy like other bollywood stuff. Script is compact and stays true to its story. The story consequently touches your heart, especially 'Hori Mahato',( if anyone has read Premchand's 'Godaan') whose death almost broke me into tears. The scenes are well placed with perfect ensemble of fine actors to play them out. The comic placement makes this movie fun to watch, The characters of English 'know it all' journalist and Hindi reporter are reminiscent of we all know who, politicians and bureaucrats are ridiculously close to what they are in real life, and the village people are as close to reality as i have seen in any Hindi movie till date. Music by Indian ocean and Ram Sampath captures the essence of the movie, the only odd thing is the placement of 'mehngayee... ' song in otherwise flawless movie. i would recommend this movie for everyone...
Though good as a comic satire but Sorry to see Aamir Khan and his team making fun of a serious issue of Farmers Suicides in India.
bobbysing16 August 2010
From a normal moviegoer point of view the film is a fine entertainer but not a thoroughly entertaining flick right till its end. The movie starts off well with few good dialogues hugely supported by the abusive language as heard in the local lingo of the villages. The audience laugh out loud when the local people talk to each other with all those "Gaallis" and added adjectives. And they further also enjoy the taunting conversations between the ailing grandmother lying on the bed and her young daughter in law. Out of the two brothers in the story, Raghuvir Yadav, the elder one is more enjoyable as compared to the leading hero of the movie, Omkar Das Manikpuri as Natha. Even when the younger brother announces his suicide, Raghuvir Yadav still remains the most amusing character moving around Natha all the time.
After its initial half an hour, the script mainly focuses on the huge circus of media people and politicians playing around Natha and his suicide announcement. The cunning yet truthful portrayal of T.V. journalists, Channel TRPs and hungry politicians looking out for their votes is no doubt impressive and executed brilliantly. But after a while this all becomes quite monotonous and repetitive. Till the scene of Natha's disappearance the proceedings become slow and rather unexciting. But then the climax comes just like as expected from a comic satire leaving the viewer to think and let him have his own conclusions over the ending. However to some people, the end may also seem to be abrupt and not entertaining enough if compared to the whole movie. Hence, looking from the angle of a normal viewer, PEEPLI (Live) is a good entertainer having few funny sequences and dialogues. But for the family audiences, taking their young kids along in the theater, the abusives strongly used in the dialogues may bring a certain kind of embarrassment on their faces.
Now, coming to the negative vibes associated with the movie, I would like to admit that I was really expecting a more hard hitting and bold movie from the house of Aamir Khan. A film which should have shown some guts to ask the concerned authorities for their answers.
But after watching PEEPLI (LIVE), I was somehow disappointed since the motive of making the people aware was no-where visible in the whole movie till the end. Frankly speaking, as the movie ended, I just realized that Aamir and his director Anusha, had basically used this relevant theme in a comic style only for their own gains and they were actually least concerned over the seriousness of the issue in the villages.
Though the movie does have a sequence of a poor farmer named Hori Mahato (remembering a character from Premchand's Godaan), dying from weakness and hunger for whom no T.V. coverage or story is done by the journalists. But the sequence is so short and briefly shown that it leaves no lasting impact on the viewer to make him think. Moreover, I also couldn't appreciate the scene where a 10 year old child asks his father "Kab Maroge?".
Truly speaking, after the intermission, I simply felt that the movie which could have raised a big question in the society just ends up like another comedy movie from Bollywood where the audience is made to laugh at the helplessness and pity situation of the hero.
To be precise, looking at the track record of both AAMIR KHAN Productions and ANUSHA RIZVI, a more decent, thoughtful and responsible movie was expected from the duo, which should have been another eye- opener for the entire population of India. But sadly PEEPLI (LIVE) doesn't rise above the level of a fine comedy which hugely depends upon its abusive dialogues and mean sequences. The film neither explains the tough conditions faced by the farmers in the villages related to their farming nor it establishes any emotional connect between the main protagonist and his viewers.
No doubt, director Anusha Rizvi makes an impressive debut, but in order to give the movie a light comic touch, she takes the limelight away from the main important subject.
Talking about the performances, the entire cast has enacted realistically and the director indeed deserves her praises for that. Every contributor in the movie from the unknown Manikpuri to the veterans Raghuvir Yadav and Naseeruddin Shah have excelled in their performances respectively. Cinematography takes you into a different world altogether and the Soundtrack using the traditional instruments and lyrics suits the background of the movie perfectly. The song "Mehangayi Dayan" has simply struck the right chord with the viewers arriving at the right time, when the prices are really shooting sky high in the country.
But here I would also like to add that the concept of the movie isn't completely new or fresh as being written in the press all over. We have witnessed similar kind of themes (though with a different background) in Frank Capra's "Meet John Doe", which was later adapted in Bollywood as Amitabh Bachchan's "Main Azaad Hun" and also Naseer's "Hero Hiralal".
So, for me PEEPLI (Live) only remains an above average comedy made on a serious issue which fails to address the core question in the much desired manner.
For the readers interested in knowing about its box office prospects, PEEPLI LIVE has already made profits for its producers even before its release by selling all the other related rights of the movie. So in that respect AAMIR KHAN has got another winner in his pocket without any doubt.
After its initial half an hour, the script mainly focuses on the huge circus of media people and politicians playing around Natha and his suicide announcement. The cunning yet truthful portrayal of T.V. journalists, Channel TRPs and hungry politicians looking out for their votes is no doubt impressive and executed brilliantly. But after a while this all becomes quite monotonous and repetitive. Till the scene of Natha's disappearance the proceedings become slow and rather unexciting. But then the climax comes just like as expected from a comic satire leaving the viewer to think and let him have his own conclusions over the ending. However to some people, the end may also seem to be abrupt and not entertaining enough if compared to the whole movie. Hence, looking from the angle of a normal viewer, PEEPLI (Live) is a good entertainer having few funny sequences and dialogues. But for the family audiences, taking their young kids along in the theater, the abusives strongly used in the dialogues may bring a certain kind of embarrassment on their faces.
Now, coming to the negative vibes associated with the movie, I would like to admit that I was really expecting a more hard hitting and bold movie from the house of Aamir Khan. A film which should have shown some guts to ask the concerned authorities for their answers.
But after watching PEEPLI (LIVE), I was somehow disappointed since the motive of making the people aware was no-where visible in the whole movie till the end. Frankly speaking, as the movie ended, I just realized that Aamir and his director Anusha, had basically used this relevant theme in a comic style only for their own gains and they were actually least concerned over the seriousness of the issue in the villages.
Though the movie does have a sequence of a poor farmer named Hori Mahato (remembering a character from Premchand's Godaan), dying from weakness and hunger for whom no T.V. coverage or story is done by the journalists. But the sequence is so short and briefly shown that it leaves no lasting impact on the viewer to make him think. Moreover, I also couldn't appreciate the scene where a 10 year old child asks his father "Kab Maroge?".
Truly speaking, after the intermission, I simply felt that the movie which could have raised a big question in the society just ends up like another comedy movie from Bollywood where the audience is made to laugh at the helplessness and pity situation of the hero.
To be precise, looking at the track record of both AAMIR KHAN Productions and ANUSHA RIZVI, a more decent, thoughtful and responsible movie was expected from the duo, which should have been another eye- opener for the entire population of India. But sadly PEEPLI (LIVE) doesn't rise above the level of a fine comedy which hugely depends upon its abusive dialogues and mean sequences. The film neither explains the tough conditions faced by the farmers in the villages related to their farming nor it establishes any emotional connect between the main protagonist and his viewers.
No doubt, director Anusha Rizvi makes an impressive debut, but in order to give the movie a light comic touch, she takes the limelight away from the main important subject.
Talking about the performances, the entire cast has enacted realistically and the director indeed deserves her praises for that. Every contributor in the movie from the unknown Manikpuri to the veterans Raghuvir Yadav and Naseeruddin Shah have excelled in their performances respectively. Cinematography takes you into a different world altogether and the Soundtrack using the traditional instruments and lyrics suits the background of the movie perfectly. The song "Mehangayi Dayan" has simply struck the right chord with the viewers arriving at the right time, when the prices are really shooting sky high in the country.
But here I would also like to add that the concept of the movie isn't completely new or fresh as being written in the press all over. We have witnessed similar kind of themes (though with a different background) in Frank Capra's "Meet John Doe", which was later adapted in Bollywood as Amitabh Bachchan's "Main Azaad Hun" and also Naseer's "Hero Hiralal".
So, for me PEEPLI (Live) only remains an above average comedy made on a serious issue which fails to address the core question in the much desired manner.
For the readers interested in knowing about its box office prospects, PEEPLI LIVE has already made profits for its producers even before its release by selling all the other related rights of the movie. So in that respect AAMIR KHAN has got another winner in his pocket without any doubt.
Finally we have some meaningful Cinema..!!
akshayrg15 August 2010
When i first heard about this movie some time ago I thought that this movie was going to be good movie but it will not be much to be talked about.But now as Mr Aamir Khan has once again proved himself as a brilliant marketer,the movie is one of most talked about movies in recent times. Carrying a meaningful subject,this film proves that how even a serious social topic could be presented interestingly.The film is thoroughly entertaining.Its a sarcasm on the social structure of this country.Not only politicians,but also on the electronic media.An effort should be made that every minister and members of parliament should watch this movie.But its even a chance that they will sleep again after the film gets over.
A Quirky Satire on Media and Government.....
SumanShakya16 August 2015
There are still many villages in India where majority of population are living below poverty line and agriculture is the only means of their livelihood. Recently, the suicides from the poor farmers unable to pay their debts had grabbed the attention of media and government. The same has been taken in the central of this film and created a rural setting with people living below poverty line. The film gives a witty account of how media manipulates news to gain TRP when a local farmer from the village announces a suicide due to his poverty. When the news gets into a local newspaper, media and government start a rat race for their means.
The film is low budget and non star cast which might not trigger the masses; but in terms of its story is witty and thought provoking and makes a satire on media. The film very effectively portrays how media are selling their stereotypes and hiding the real truth, just to increase their so called TRPs. Similarly, the film also serves a satire to the government and the politicians who utilise the loopholes in the rules to secure their positions and make mockery out of common people. Raghuvir Yadav is a known artist or tremendous veracity which too comes true with this film. Other actors, Omkar Das, and Shalini whom you have never heard of have also done good jobs and portrayed a very rural village of Madhya Pradesh. Though the film is slow and portrays the highly backward community, the film is commendable for presenting a real backdrop of the country with a brief on the government policies for the poverty and their reality.
Rating: 3 stars out of 4
The film is low budget and non star cast which might not trigger the masses; but in terms of its story is witty and thought provoking and makes a satire on media. The film very effectively portrays how media are selling their stereotypes and hiding the real truth, just to increase their so called TRPs. Similarly, the film also serves a satire to the government and the politicians who utilise the loopholes in the rules to secure their positions and make mockery out of common people. Raghuvir Yadav is a known artist or tremendous veracity which too comes true with this film. Other actors, Omkar Das, and Shalini whom you have never heard of have also done good jobs and portrayed a very rural village of Madhya Pradesh. Though the film is slow and portrays the highly backward community, the film is commendable for presenting a real backdrop of the country with a brief on the government policies for the poverty and their reality.
Rating: 3 stars out of 4
Bore and Slow
shaileshbansal21 August 2010
For first half I was waiting for it to start, ya but I can say that it finally started after intermission but again it didn't went smooth after that too as some time the speed is fine and sometime it again goes slow. Its surely do its main job properly to showcase role of politicians and media in problem of a common man in this Natha. But I will say its not able to make a proper movie out of it. You wont feel like your money is valued or as we say "Paisa Vasul nahi hai". There are some very good pieces but Amir Khan the so called perfectionist is failed to put them together.
Watch only if you are a die hard fan of Amir Khan or you are a movie freak for rest I will suggest not to waste their time and money.
Watch only if you are a die hard fan of Amir Khan or you are a movie freak for rest I will suggest not to waste their time and money.
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