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In 1991, the Government of India opened up the economy and unleashed the forces of globalization, forever changing the landscape of the country. A dozen years later, India was celebrating its emergence as a global economic super power. Set in 2004, in the midst of a nationwide ‘India Shining’ campaign, the film Mantra tells the intimate story of a family and its travails, and through it, the story of the New India. The protagonist of the film is Kapil Kapoor, the founder of an iconic Indian snack brand in the ‘License Raj’ old India. But today – in 2004 – he is fighting a losing battle against a multinational that has taken over the market. But it is not just his company that Kapil is desperately trying to save; it is also his own wife and children who are battling their own crises. But for Kapil to hold on to everything that is dear to him – professionally and personally – he must confront himself; what he will save, and what he will lose, depends on the extent he is willing to face his own demons. Mantra is a film that is deeply personal, set against the landscape of a sprawling, changing, India.
Duration: 90 min
Released: 2017
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10 (8 Votes)
Genre: Drama, Family, Hindi Movies
Stars: Adil Hussain, Rajat Kapoor, Shiv Pandit, Kalki Koechlin
Directors: Nicholas Kharkongor
Year: 2017
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Introduction to Mantra (2017)
"Mantra," released in 2017, is a compelling Hindi drama that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, trust, and personal evolution. The film was directed by acclaimed actor and filmmaker Rajat Kapoor, who also plays a pivotal role in the movie. This intimate family drama explores the nuances of relationships against the backdrop of modern Indian society.
Plot Overview
At its core, "Mantra" tells the story of the Sharma family, focusing on the patriarch Mahesh Sharma, played by Rajat Kapoor himself. Mahesh is a corporate executive stirring to find balance between his prestigious career and his responsibilities towards his family. Set in Mumbai, the plot probes the inner workings and silences that often go unspoken within middle-class families.
The narrative is woven with themes of trust, the changing roles within familial structures, and the personal battles that each character faces as they try to reconcile individual desires with collective family expectations.
Main Cast
Direction and Writing
Rajat Kapoor not only directs the film but is also credited as the writer. His unique vision and storytelling prowess shine through the narrative, which is reflected in the delicate pacing and deeply personal conversations. Kapoor’s direction is subtle yet powerful, opting for naturalistic performances and minimalistic storytelling techniques to evoke a strong emotional response from the audience.
Thematic Exploration
One of the standout features of "Mantra" is its exploration of complex familial relationships without falling into melodrama. The film eschews typical clichés and instead offers an insightful portrayal of personal conflicts, societal expectations, and generational differences. The familial discord and reconciliation are narrated with honesty, making the story both relatable and introspective.
Music and Songs
This movie, being a Hindi drama grounded in realism, does not place a heavy emphasis on elaborate song-and-dance sequences typical of Bollywood masala films. Instead, it features a subdued musical score that complements the emotional tone of the film. There are no signature songs or dance numbers associated with "Mantra" (2017), focusing instead on narrative and character development.
Cinematography and Production
The cinematography of "Mantra" utilizes intimate and close framing to capture the emotional intensity of the characters, making the audience feel involved in the family’s private moments. The film's atmosphere is supported by a muted color palette, reflecting the everyday reality and underlying tensions.
Reception
Although not a mainstream commercial film, "Mantra" was appreciated for its thoughtful script, exceptional performances, and Rajat Kapoor’s restrained direction. Critics praised the film for its mature handling of family themes and its refreshing take on Indian middle-class life. Viewers who enjoy meaningful, character-driven dramas found this film particularly engaging.
Conclusion
"Mantra" (2017) is a poignant exploration of familial ties and the personal journeys we undertake within those relationships. With stellar performances by Rajat Kapoor and Kalki Koechlin, intricate writing, and sensitive directing, it offers an introspective look at the challenges faced by contemporary Indian families. This drama is a must-watch for those seeking a nuanced tale about love, conflict, and reconciliation without the embellishments of typical Bollywood flourishes.
For viewers interested in Hindi films that explore real-life emotions with subtlety and depth, "Mantra" provides a rewarding cinematic experience.
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