Most of us Indians are familiar with the paintings of Raja Ravi
Verma, at least in the form of bright colourful calendar art. The film
brings to us how colourful his life was. And the story of his life, with
the central theme of an artist fighting for the freedom of his thought
and creativity, is an easily relatable and timely one. In fact, the
delay of 6 long years between completion and release has served the film
well thematically. Of course, being a period film set at the turn of
the last century, it remains visually and stylistically unaffected by
the huge delay. Besides, Anil Mehta's stunning cinematography, under
director Ketan Mehta's keen eye for detail, colour and design, is a
treat. The climax can make any lover of freedom and art weep, the
message is clear, strong, non preachy and sadly still so needed.
Randeep Hooda as Raja Ravi Verma is a great choice. He has a regal enough face (especially with that perfect nose), that can as easily look lecherous and manipulative. He particularly sparkles when he argues in court against the imprisonment of his thoughts and art and when he cruelly dismisses his muse's claim to a life outside his imagination. Randeep is so comfortable embodying the legendary painter that you believe him and want to support his fight almost all the time, except when he ages dramatically and somehow no one else around him does. And when he looks as uncomfortable as the audience in those unnecessary love making scenes.
Rating - 2.5/5
Randeep Hooda as Raja Ravi Verma is a great choice. He has a regal enough face (especially with that perfect nose), that can as easily look lecherous and manipulative. He particularly sparkles when he argues in court against the imprisonment of his thoughts and art and when he cruelly dismisses his muse's claim to a life outside his imagination. Randeep is so comfortable embodying the legendary painter that you believe him and want to support his fight almost all the time, except when he ages dramatically and somehow no one else around him does. And when he looks as uncomfortable as the audience in those unnecessary love making scenes.
Rating - 2.5/5
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