Aatmapamphlet

Hello!

The new feature The Great India Cinema will explore the cinematic gems across India in different languages, looking beyond the Hindi film industry.

In the first post of this feature, let’s explore a very unique Marathi movie ‘Aatmapamphlet’.

A biopic (better say autobiopic) like no other- ‘Aatmapamphlet’ (Marathi, 2023 meaning Autobio-pamphlet) stands out as one of the most intelligent and sly takes on discrimination in society.  Director Ashish Bende’s autobiopic- or what he says autobio-pamphlet written and narrated by Presh Mokashi is a champion of realistic Marathi cinema. It is a wicked, humorous take on evolving societal dynamics told in first person narration style, also showcasing the churnings in India of 90’s.

The hero of the story Ashish represents the emerging new generation from a community that has been historically oppressed. The story starts from his birth, his naming, his family dynamics and the struggle. However the soul of the movie lies in his school adventures. The way Ashish and his group of friends interpret the socio-political events and try to respond to them, is humorous as well as awakening. And then there’s a cute love story to drive forward the narrative.

The protagonist Ashish is normal, unremarkable young boy. In fact, he himself admits it and therefore calls this enterprise as a ‘pamphlet’. He is not the typical enraged, revenge- oriented hero. He and his friends want to find solutions for problems in the world, but its an organic part of their growth and not some heroic mission. His parents represent the aspirational lower middle class struggling for survival but keeping an eye on future. Other characters in the movie especially Borya and Srushti are also well written. Getting inspired from real life characters, the makers have ensured cent percent authenticity while building up the characters.

‘Aatmapamphlet’ is an excellent commentary on children in their growing years perceive the surroundings and how the surroundings in turn impact their thought process. It has a happy-go-lucky, mocking vibe but deep down this movie makes you think about the not so rosy world of common people. Very subtly it highlights the burning issues in society and how they affect millions of voiceless people. The best part of the movie is that it leaves it to the viewers to decide whether they see this movie as a joyful comedy or a serious socio-drama.