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Amit Jadhav

Manush (2023) Movie Review: Morality Tale Wrapped in Action Salsa



Forget the predictable cop vs. mafia dance. "Manush: Child of Destiny" throws in a twist that'll have you questioning who's truly dancing the devil's tango. Buckle up for a Bengali thriller where the lines between good and bad blur faster than a Kolkata taxi dodging potholes.


The film's not content with just your run-of-the-mill cop-chasing-drug-lord saga. It flips the script, showing us how the squeaky-clean Narcotics Officer Arjun Mukherjee morphs into the ruthless drug lord Victor, while the dreaded Chhota Mannan sheds his criminal skin to become the ordinary Namaji. This ain't your typical chase, it's a psychological tango where identities swap costumes and motives become a tangled mess.


"Manush" isn't just an action flick; it's a social commentary wrapped in cinematic gold. The film grapples with the complexities of corruption, addiction, and family ties in a way that resonates deeply with the Indian cultural context. But don't worry, even non-Indians can appreciate the universal themes of redemption and the struggle for morality.


Jeet and Jeetu Kamal deliver powerhouse performances that'll have you glued to the screen. Jeet's Arjun is a study in contrasts, shifting seamlessly between the devoted father and the cold-blooded criminal. Jeetu's Mannan, on the other hand, is a chameleon, shedding layers of persona with every scene. And let's not forget the phenomenal Ayanna Chatterjee as Arjun's daughter, Mili. Her innocent charm adds a much-needed emotional counterpoint to the film's gritty world.


While "Manush" is a thrilling ride, it's not without its bumps. Some might find the pacing a tad uneven, and the occasional Bollywood quirk (think dramatic monologues and gravity-defying stunts) may not be for everyone.


The film's visuals are a treat, capturing the vibrant chaos of Kolkata and the stark beauty of the Indian countryside. The music score is equally impactful, with pulsating beats that heighten the tension and soulful melodies that tug at your heartstrings.


So, is "Manush" worth your time? Absolutely! It's a thought-provoking thriller that's both entertaining and emotionally resonant. It'll leave you questioning your own moral compass and wondering who you'd be if the mask slipped. Just remember, this ain't your average Bollywood masala; it's a complex and layered story that deserves your full attention.


Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐ out of 5 stars


Now it's your turn! Did "Manush" leave you dancing with your own demons? Share your thoughts and interpretations in the comments below. Let's keep the conversation going!

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