Choked Paisa Bolta Hai (2020)

Choked is a compelling drama film released in 2020, directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. The movie presents a vivid exploration of the everyday struggles faced by a middle-class family in Mumbai, India, underpinned by themes such as financial insecurity, personal resilience, and socio-economic issues exacerbated during a national crisis. Kashyap, known for his gritty storytelling and unique cinematic style, brings a deeply human and realistic narrative to life through this film.

The central story revolves around Sarita Pillai, portrayed masterfully by Saiyami Kher, a bank cashier and homemaker whose life begins to unravel due to the sudden demonetization policy imposed in India during 2016. Sarita is depicted as a strong yet vulnerable woman, juggling the challenges of maintaining her household and managing the financial upheaval caused by the demonetization. Roshan Mathew plays her husband, Prakash Pillai, whose character adds a poignant dimension to the narrative, illustrating the personal and familial tensions during extraordinary times.

The film's screenplay and writing, also credited to Anurag Kashyap, cleverly interweaves personal and political crises, bringing a nuanced view of the impact of a large-scale monetary policy on common citizens. The writing is lauded for its authenticity, rich character development, and subtle commentary on socio-political realities.

Plot and Themes

Choked opens a window into Sarita's life, balancing her monotonous yet challenging role as a bank cashier with domestic responsibilities. The plot thickens when she discovers hidden cash stashed away in her kitchen's choking pipe – a metaphorical and literal blockage seen in the film as a symbol reflecting the suffocating economic condition of many Indians at the time.

What follows is a journey of hope and despair, as Sarita tries to harness the newfound money while navigating the restrictions set by demonetization. The storyline deftly captures the strain on her marriage and her moral dilemmas, including the temptation of illicit means to secure financial stability. The backdrop of demonetization is treated not only as a political event but as a lived experience affecting everyday lives, especially those reliant on cash economy and informal sectors.

The film also examines broader social issues such as gender roles, domestic violence, and economic disenfranchisement, portrayed through Sarita’s interactions with her family and society. The tension within the family is subtly depicted and culminates in moments of emotional intensity, offering the audience a raw experience of resilience and endurance.

Performances

Saiyami Kher delivers a breakthrough performance as Sarita Pillai, embodying her character's vulnerability and strength with elegance and depth. Her performance anchors the film, making Sarita’s emotional journey palpable and deeply relatable. Roshan Mathew complements with a grounded portrayal of Prakash the husband, adding layers to the film’s emotional texture.

The supporting cast comprises talented performers who contribute significantly to the film's authentic ambiance. Their collective efforts shape a vivid depiction of a typical middle-class household grappling with larger economic and social upheavals.

Direction and Cinematography

Anurag Kashyap's direction is both sensitive and precise, balancing the personal and political without descending into melodrama. His approach lends the story a documentary-like realism that brings Mumbai's vibrant yet difficult milieu into sharp focus. The film’s cinematography utilizes Mumbai’s urban landscape effectively, capturing both the claustrophobia of cramped living spaces and the vastness of city life outside.

Music and Soundtrack

Although Choked is not a traditional Bollywood movie with elaborate song and dance sequences, it includes a thoughtful and minimalistic soundtrack that complements the film's somber tone. The music is composed by Alokananda Dasgupta, whose subtle score amplifies the emotional undercurrents effectively. The sound design enhances the atmosphere, reflecting the mundanity and tension permeating Sarita's life.

Critical Reception

Choked has been praised for its meaningful storytelling, powerful performances, and innovative direction. Critics have highlighted the film’s relevance and its insightful depiction of demonetization’s impact on common people, a subject not extensively explored in mainstream cinema. The film also opened discussions about the suffocating pressures on women in patriarchal households and the socio-economic divides in urban India.

Conclusion

In summary, Choked (2020) stands out as a thoughtful and poignant film that combines the personal with the political through the lens of a relatable protagonist’s life. Directed and written by Anurag Kashyap with evocative performances by Saiyami Kher and Roshan Mathew, the movie offers not only a cinematic experience but also an insightful look into a significant socio-economic event in India. This film is a must-watch for those interested in socially conscious cinema and stories anchored in real-life events, marked by strong narrative, compelling performances, and sensitive direction.

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