Antardwand Movie Reviews

The film is supposedly based on a practice that is rampant in the backwaters of Bihar even today: Groom kidnapping. Indeed, a novel plot! But the novelty of the story isn't the only thing that makes Antardwand an engaging film. Director Sushil Rajpal tells his story with an authenticity and a touch of high drama that keeps you glued to your seats.

If you have ever watched the teleserial Bhagyavidhata on the Colorschannel, you would have an idea what to expect from Antardwand. The film looks at the deep rot in the Indian patriarchal system, the obsession of some sections of society with the civil services, and the bigoted treatment of women. You may not have heard of the term ‘Pakrauah Shaadi’, but this phenomenon of abducting eligible young men and forcing them into marriage

Life isn't always about a few laughs. There is always a darker side. But how bad can things get? Are values so different in a capital city such as Patna, and smaller towns just a few hours away? Is there a ray of hope for the younger generation? Evidently, no. Children are raised with the sole intention of either fulfilling their parents' unfulfilled expectations - as in the case of boys - or elevating the families' social status - where the girls are concerned

First, compateeson (competition); then, byaah (wedding). These two simple steps have traditionally defined middle class Bihar’s aspirational ladder. It’s also been for long the feudal obsession of a poor, politically active state. The competition stands for the IAS, an exam that carries with it a 35-plus years’ warranty of unfettered power and illegitimate wealth. Successful candidates at this annual UPSC test are transported right across to the local marriage mart.

Jog your memory and recall films highlighting the nuisance called dowry. Images of a number of movies would instantly conjure up in front of your eyes. Now think of groom kidnapping. Have you heard of it or 'Pakrauah Shaadi' [that's how it is referred to in North India]? I had vaguely heard of it once, but was clueless about the reasons that prompt people to kidnap eligible bachelors. ANTARDWAND not only spells out the reasons, but also tackles the issue with rare understanding.

Antardwand, which means inner conflict, won last year’s National award for best film on social issues, and one can see why. This is a film on an issue that dominates our collective sensibilities and cinema - marriage - except it’s far removed from the Chopra & Johar pretty polly school of filmmaking. This is raw, gritty cinema, dealing with the peculiar issue of groom kidnapping, a practise still prevalent in the badlands of Bihar

Set in rural Bihar where nothing works except the law of the lawless, Antardwand takes the firm and gripping route to expose a hinterland-headline - the kidnapping of marriageable boys by desperate fathers of wannabe brides. This was a prevalent malpractice in Bihar until some years ago. Not so much any more. Debutant director Sushil Rajpal's film works more for its deeper resonances than just the surface sincerity. It is not so much the sensational value

ANTARDWAND is for the critics. The public will ignore this well-intentioned attempt.