Not yet, says Maithili Rao.
The question contains the answer. We get the films we deserve, especially biopics and 'historicals.' The latest proof (of this unwritten Bolly wood law that packing sufficient emotional masala into the narrative is all it takes to entertain an uncritical audience that overlooks factual fidelity) comes from the much anticipated, much lauded and equally criticised Sanju that galloped past the 300-crore benchmark — the new, revised indicator of the true blockbuster. Films are not all about numbers. At least for non-box-office watchers, who look for more than just entertainment in a film, set in a tumultuous, divisive period of recent history. The years 1992-93 have scarred Mumbai forever; the wounds have not healed and fault lines have further deepened in these days of hyper, chest-beating nationalism.
The film’s title should have been, My name is Sanjay Dutt, and I am not a terrorist. Strategically placed before a mirror, Sanjay Dutt (a brilliant Ranbir Kapoor, who gives the film whatever credibility it has) declares: yes, I am a junkie, a womaniser. But, he pleads directly with the audience: I am not a terrorist. The vindication comes later, in a scene in which the judge acquits Sanju of the terrorism charge under the draconian TADA. He is sentenced for unauthorised possession of an assault weapon. Rajkumar Hirani’s script and direction preempts this, bent as he is upon proving Sanju’s assertion in many obvious and not-so-obvious ways. I realise I am using the film’s title to refer to the protagonist instead of the formal Dutt. It is because this man, who is now over 50, has been infantilised in our collective imagination: a result of the collusion between the media and film industry.
Esta historia es de la edición August 2018 de Man's World.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición August 2018 de Man's World.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Rekha At 70 The Enduring Mystique
More than a generation after she was last seen on screen, the mystique that she successfully wrapped herself in continues to serve her well in the public imagination. Her fleeting public appearances in dazzling silk sarees and makeup continue to beguile the camera in the same manner it did at the peak of her career
iPhone Fatigue
Do we really need an annual Apple flagship release?
Men's Guide To Combat Premature Hair Loss
Male pattern baldness hit men at an early age, at times in late 30s and early 40s. We asked the experts the reason behind it, treatments that can help, and factors to take care of
SMRITI MANDHANA MAKES CRICKET LOOK EASY
In conversation with Man's World for Hyundai Drive Within campaign, the stylish Indian batter talks about her craft, evolution, and her thoughts on women's cricket
Pritam Hitting The High Note
A National Award for Brahmastra: Part One Shiva this year and songs that continue to clock millions of streams, Pritam Chakraborty proves why he's one of the most acclaimed Hindi Film music directors of our time
JEMIMAH RODRIGUES IS HAVING THE TIME OF HER LIFE
In conversation with Man's World as a part of Hyundai Drive Within campaign, Jemimah Rodrigues take us through the drive within her that inspires her to be the best in her business.
SHAFALI VERMA IN A LEAGUE OF HER OWN
In conversation with Man's World India as a part of the Hyundai Drive Within campaign, Shafali Verma opens up about her historic double century, her fearless brand of cricket, and more
Hands Onl Seiko Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver's Watch SPB455 100th Anniversary Edition
Seiko's 100th anniversary of the first watch to bear its name brought an exciting addition to its famed Prospex collection; a timepiece that pays homage to the brand's iconic history while embracing modern ideas of versatile wearability
WATCHES ON THE WILD SIDE ATYPICAL CASE DESIGNS
Horology isn't just about precision. It's also about understanding the rules of perception-and sometimes, taking a sledgehammer to them
Denim The Timeless Trendsetter
Crystal Henricksen, Head of Denim Design at GAP, shares with us what makes the fabric simple, versatile, and timeless