Movie spotlight
Antarmahal
In late 19th Century, Bengal Bhubaneswar Chowdhury (Jackie Shroff) is a wealthy and tyrannical Zamidar (Squire). He has two main obsessions: his desperate attempts for an heir, which even his new second wife Jashomati seems unable to deliver; and competing with his regional rivals to produce the most magnificent effigy of a goddess for the annual Durga Puja ceremony. This year he concocts a master plan - why not change the face of the goddess for the most powerful woman on Earth - Queen Victoria. Meantime his two wives Mahomaya and Jashomati try to look out for one another especially as Bhubeneshwar begins to sexually assault his younger wife each night. Traumatised and lonely, Jashomati is dangerously drawn towards the youthful sculptor who has been employed to create the great effigy of Durga, Goddess of destruction.
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Plot Summary
In 19th-century Bengal, a wealthy zamindar's wife, Mahaprabha, is determined to conceive a child to secure her position, but her husband, Jiban, is more interested in his young maid, Rohini. As Mahaprabha attempts to assert her authority and seek retribution, she finds herself entangled in a web of desires, traditions, and power struggles within the household.
Critical Reception
Antarmahal received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising Rituparno Ghosh's direction and the performances of the lead actors, particularly Soha Ali Khan and Jackie Shroff. The film's exploration of sensitive themes and its period setting were often highlighted, though some found its pacing uneven and its narrative somewhat conventional.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sensitive direction and strong performances, especially from Soha Ali Khan.
The film's exploration of repressed desires and societal pressures within a historical context was noted.
Some found the narrative to be slow-paced at times.
Google audience: Audience reception for 'Antarmahal' is not widely available through specific Google user ratings, but general sentiment indicates appreciation for its thematic depth and artistic presentation.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for the Golden Peacock Award at the 36th International Film Festival of India.
Fun Fact
The film's controversial subject matter and its bold depiction of sensuality and power dynamics led to discussions about censorship and artistic freedom in Indian cinema at the time of its release.
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