DHARM
Defining The Divine Art Of Cinema
By Vishal Verma

Rating:- * * * 1/2

What is it?
Time and again, questions are always being raised from experts, media and others that Indian cinema lacks originality and substance. But hey guys, now you have an answer from Bhavna Talwar. ‘Dharm’ director Bhavna Talwar’s debut vehicle is a unique answer to those who doubt India’s sense and sensibilities in film making.
DHARM may not be commercially viable but it’s definitely worth a watch for any cinegoer who holds a passion for cinema with a thought.

Bhavna’s narration in her very first film is pious and she eventually succeeds in what she is trying to say. The director is well backed by the writers’ Vibha Singh (script) and Varun Gautam (dialogues and lyrics).

Whats it all about?
Pundit Chaturvedi ( Pankaj Kapur), lives with his wife Supriya Pathak Kapur and a daughter. Pundit Chturvedi is a Hindu Priest fastidiously practices his religion. One day, a child comes into his life. He adopts him and names him Kartikey. The priest’s life is filled with joy, till the day Pandit Chaturvedi is forced by religion to turn Kartikey away.. The 4 years old child challenges the very core of the priest’s belief.

What to look out for?
Elegantly pious narration, no unwanted gags, the film feel is maintained by Bhavna right from the 1st shot and almost till the end. There are many moments but the best was the scene where Pankaj plays with the toddler. A stealer all the way.  Excellent camerawork by Nalla Muttu. Editing by Asif Ali Sheikh is crisp. Art direction by Wasiq Khan is noteworthy. Music by Debajyoti Mishra is in sync with the aura of the film. Production values are first rate.

Talk about performances, well Shekar kapur should seriously think of opening an acting school. To watch this wonderful actor getting into the skin of the role with such ease and perfection is quite riveting. Supriya Pathak provides able support. K.K Raina, Hrishita Bhatt, and Pankaj Tripathy too come with some fine performances.

What Not?
Sadly, the climax is not well defined as it should been. You feel some emptiness in the end. This flaw stops this unique film turning into a masterpiece.

Minus minor flaws ‘DHARM’ a Friday Fund presentation under the banner of WSG pictures being produced by Sheetal Talwar and directed by Bhavna Talwar is a film for those who have an appetite for meaningful cinema.
DO NOT MISS!!!