Swayamvar
Swayamvar

Movie spotlight

Swayamvar

1980
Movie
0
Hindi

Durgadevi rules her household with her brother, Makhanlan, and treats daughter Shanti worse than she treats servants; her other daughter is Roopa. When the younger women are approached for marriage, Durgadevi refuses.

Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Director: Shyam BenegalGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

The film is a period drama set in the late 19th century, focusing on the complex marital relationship between an aristocratic woman and her husband. It explores themes of societal expectations, tradition, and the constraints placed upon women in a patriarchal society. The narrative unfolds through the protagonist's internal struggles and her interactions within her family and community.

Critical Reception

Swayamvar was critically acclaimed for its nuanced portrayal of social issues and its strong performances, particularly from Shabana Azmi. It is considered a significant work in parallel cinema, noted for its realistic depiction of historical social dynamics and its sensitive handling of marital discord.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sensitive direction and nuanced exploration of women's roles in traditional Indian society.

  • Shabana Azmi's performance was widely lauded for its depth and emotional resonance.

  • Appreciated for its realistic portrayal of the complexities within a marital relationship during the era.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this older film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

Shyam Benegal's film 'Swayamvar' is often discussed in the context of its exploration of female agency and psychological depth, marking it as a significant contribution to Indian art-house cinema.

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