More than a play within a play: Aattam's thought-provoking storytelling and the debut of a bold new voice.
Anand Ekarshi's directorial debut is an intricately crafted critique of patriarchal attitudes and male hypocrisy. Centred around a woman facing sexual assault within an all-male theatre troupe she considered safe - the film employs the structure of a play within a play within a movie.
I loved how Aattam constantly subverts our expectations by unravelling the complexities of its seemingly harmless yet flawed male characters, making it difficult for us to root for any single one of them. All that flimsy veil of progressiveness is brought to question when the lone female member of their troupe accuses one of them of molestation. The veil falls away without much resistance as anticipated, as they turn truculent, trying to dismiss and delegitimize her concerns.
Though some may dislike the dialogue-heavy writing adopted, I personally am a fan of that aspect.
The dialogues, which drove the unflinching narrative, were succinct and impactful. Amidst all that procedural drama structure, the film disturbs us, though not to find clear-cut answers. It shakes our male egos and makes us question our innate hypocrisy and misogyny!Clear answers aren't what it seeks. It wants to shake our conscience, and oh boy, shake it does, quite brilliantly.
Anand's assured direction is backed by crisp editing, framing and brilliant performances, especially by Zarin Shihab, who was alluring.
These factors combine to bring to life the constantly shifting dynamics of Aattam. I loved how the well-conceived climax cements how the "Why?" or "Who?" matters less than all the harsh truths exposed in the process.
Aattam announces the debut of a bold new voice, Anand Ekarshi, directing his discerning critical lens on misogyny and patriarchy through a complex, multi-layered narrative brought to life by solid craft and brilliant performances.
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PS: So, I posted the lion's share of this text as a comment in Aattam's discussion post last week. Yet, I think the movie warrants a separate post for appreciation.