Now in 2023, Sinha is all set for his return to the big screen with “Bheed”, a film that takes us through one of the most heartbreaking incidents that have taken place recently–the Indian lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. The catastrophe is not only given the shape of a film but also reflects desperate socio-political angst and rampant heartbreak — migrant laborers & oppressed sections on how they fight to survive in this land, amidst interplanatory crisis – welcome to Bheed- Factory collapsed.
In this review, we are discussing the story, the performance, the direction, and obviously what impact Bheed leaves on us with a clever amalgamation of its theme with a narrative onto it by building roles subtly yet making it sound as oppressive as ever.
Plot Overview
The series Bheed highlights the stark picture of India’s most marginalized communities in dealing with the aftermath of the abrupt lockdown. The film is a commentary on the plight of migrant workers, who lost their jobs and walked back to their villages. They walk on foot, with few resources, vulnerable to hunger, fatigue/scarcity, and or indifference of a government that doesn’t trust that during their trip nobody was prepared for the arrival of the tragic humanitarian crisis.
Bheed tells the story of those faceless crowds that had to leave cities in large numbers through the narratives of multiple characters and thus, humanizes them. The film not only showcases the suffering of these migrants but also our long-standing Indian social malaise of caste, class, and religion — where the fallout of the pandemic now looks like a representation of it!
Performances
The performances in Bheed are all top-class with a stellar ensemble cast that boasts Rajkummar Rao, Bhumi Pednekar, Pankaj Kapur, and Dia Mirza. Every actor is at the top of his game and brings authenticity to the parts so that we as an audience can feel their hardships and emotions.
Rajkummar Rao, as the officer walking a tightrope between duty and compassion, gives an incredibly balanced performance. His character must decide between strict enforcement of lockdown rules and aiding the most vulnerable, a true moral quagmire faced by some in this time of disaster.
Bhumi Pednekar, as a social worker pitted against the system, shines in her part. A glimmer of empathy interrupts the tale provided by her hopelessness. And finally, Pankaj Kapur as a senior migrant worker puts up such an intense performance that some of the exasperation and helplessness is trickled right to those who are let down by the system.
Direction and Screenplay
‘Article 15’, ‘Mulk’ and all things serious; Anubhav Sinha’s style to take on socially relevant issues straightforward with Bheed Sinha chooses to be direct, blunt, and real-as the situation is. He doesn’t sugarcoat the agonizing realities of the pandemic — be it the sight of miles-long food and water lines or how it chips away at everyone spiritually.
Suspended Animation, co-written by Sinha and Suhas Sirsatacute a smart-stat-brained screenplay. It manages to be micro — following the struggles of characters on a personal level — and macro at once, revealing a wider social and political tapestry. The dialogue is effective in these situations — characters facing their powerless against the psychosis only heightens the stakes. Nonetheless, there are times when Vestron Nakid presents a more uneven pacing — particularly in the middle — that creates some gratuitous sequences.
Cinematography and Music
Bheedemploys cinematography to create a rich contrast between the dense urban landscape and quiet highways that are home to migrants today. This is mingled with wide shots, and the sheer number of people stranded comes into focus, only to be contrasted by close-ups that zoom in on the pain and distress illustrated in their eyes. The visuals too narrate the story bringing in a dimension of raw feel to viewers engulfing them with the character’s pain.
Subdued but powerful music by Mangesh Dhakde which suits the somber mood of the film. The background music is minimal but ever so present, heightening emotional intensity at every opportunity without overwhelming the story. Thankfully, the seriousness of the film is not offset by musical numbers, allowing it to stay grounded in reality.
Social Relevance
Among its many strengths, Bheed shines due to the unabashed relevance that it offers in today’s time. The movie is not just limited to the pandemic but also addresses systemic social issues including poverty, caste divide, and mistreatment of the voiceless in India. What it does do is firmly castigate the ill-preparedness of authorities and the differential implications on different strata caused by lockdowns.
Its depiction of the separation in class from those watching read the terror play out through a window to those directly struggling for their lives underscores the divide that pandemics have historically exposed within society. Bheed confronts the viewer with a multitude of uncomfortable facts about privilege, inequality, and human suffering and many could find the watch disturbing, compelling, or both.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
Fabulous Cast: Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar are supported by an ensemble of fine actors who offer raw and heartfelt performances.
Depth:The Bheed, is ¿a socially relevant film incorporated with the theme of destruction and desperation seen during a pandemic, making it a valuable-to-watch film.
Camera Work: The visuals have been used to superb advantage showing the range of emotions and the sheer reach and magnitude of the calamity.
Anubhav Sinha BEST FILMMAKING AT ITS FINEST(in name only): The film entertains, educates and provokes thought (Credits: Anubhav Sinha)
Weaknesses:
Pacing:Scenes in the middle feel prolonged and repetitious, which adds to an overall slow movement.
No Real Resolution: The film may expose some harsh truths, but there is very little closure to be found in the narratives it weaves, and that may not appeal to every viewer.
Ratings
Storyline: 8.5/10
Direction: 8/10
Performances: 9/10
Cinematography:8/10
Music:7.5/10
Overall Rating: 8.2/10
Final Verdict
Bheed— The Unsung Tale of Pandemic, shines a limelight on pandemic’s forgotten stories via a vibrant saga of social drama. Featuring powerful performances, an impactful story and timely social commentary, it is a must-watch for content that is made to send out a message. Though a tough watch because of its grim subject matter, Bheed shines in its intention to deepen empathy while highlighting the plight of millions as it discusses issues arising from the lockdown.
For those looking for something progressive, that moves and shakes and leaves you thinking about the dark underbelly of society for a while, Bheed is a film you simply cannot miss. Anubhav Sinha’s direction and exceptional acting performances together make this film a high-impact watch.
