Still from the film Parched
Film Review: Parched
Director: Leena Yadav
Music: Hitesh Sonik
Cast: Tannishtha Chatterjee,Radhika Apte, Surveen Chawla
Ratings: 2.5 stars
Parched is a story of patriarchal tyranny. Of four oppressed but courageous women Rani, (Tannishtha Chatterjee) a widow, Lajjo, (Radhika Apte) who is childless, Bijlee (Surveen Chawla) , a sex worker and Janaki (Lehar Khan) a child bride.
The film proves that India lives in multiple centuries simultaneously so while this village is reformed to possess mobile phones their dream is to own a dish TV so that their men will return home early.
What works: is the spirit and the urge to break shackles. Shot by the renowned Russell Carpenter of Titanic every frame is a treat to the eyes.
What does not: is the story because we have watched these issues (oppression, promiscuity, tyranny, bi-sexuality and sexual gratification) addressed in Rudali, Aastha, Mirch Masala or Rihaee and Fire. The climax is somewhat crazy where the women in search of happiness drive away in a bicycle cart into the rainbow and to feel empowered let go off their vanity and cut their hair.
Would men ever do that, no and it is time to question that why do women need to emphasize their freedom, should not they be taking it for granted?
All the characters are believable and all the performances sensitive. Tannishtha Chatterjee and Radhika Apte are acclaimed actresses but this time Surveen Chawla has the better role and makes a better impact.
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