In the cinematic realm, where good acting seamlessly blends with character portrayal, Manoj Bajpayee stands as a stalwart, transcending the boundaries between the actor and the character he embodies. “Joram,” directed and written by Devashish Makhija, unfolds as a gripping narrative, interweaving the lives of rebels, cops, and the complex socio-political landscape they navigate.
The story follows Dasru (Manoj Bajpayee), a man on the run from Mumbai to Jharkhand after the tragic death of his wife Vaano (Tannishtha Chatterjee). Left to care for their three-year-old child, Dasru’s life becomes a relentless pursuit, not just to escape the clutches of law enforcement but also to carve a destiny he was never given the chance to choose. Makhija’s script is hauntingly coherent, with a spectral touch that echoes in the lives of its characters.
One of the film’s strengths lies in Makhija’s ability to make the audience ‘taste’ the narrative through its frames. The contrasting moments of the lead couple humming the same song during the best and worst times of their lives add depth to the storytelling. The political undertones delve beyond the power struggles, exploring the anarchism surrounding illegal migrants, providing a thought-provoking layer to the narrative.
Makhija’s direction creates an immersive experience for the viewers. From the earthy taste of water from a hand pump to the first-person POV in chase sequences, every frame is meticulously designed to engage the audience in the essence of the story. The ‘train chase’ scene stands out as a masterclass in tight screenplay, precise editing, and dizzying cinematography, delivering a thrilling experience.
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The star performances elevate “Joram” to another level. Manoj Bajpayee, a maestro of his craft, seamlessly becomes Dasru, embodying the character’s exhaustion, resilience, and determination. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub’s portrayal of Ratnakar, a cop torn between duty and empathy, is skillfully balanced, capturing the essence of a relentless pursuit for justice. Tannishtha Chatterjee and Smita Tambe shine in their roles, contributing to the emotional depth of the narrative.
The film’s music, scored by Mangesh Dhakde, adds to the overall atmosphere, with a gloomy and bleak background score that resonates during emotionally charged sequences. The haunting violin notes accompany the characters through their journey, enhancing the film’s immersive experience.
While Makhija’s direction earns accolades, the film’s narrative faces challenges in maintaining a consistent level of conflict throughout. The cat-and-mouse chase between Dasru and the system brings thrills, but the underlying conflict tends to stagnate, impacting the overall viewing experience. Makhija’s inclination towards crafting films for international film festivals is evident, but it occasionally leads to a predictable storytelling trap.
“Joram” is a film to savor for those who appreciate a heavy, thought-provoking cinematic experience. It may not be for everyone due to its intense narrative, but Manoj Bajpayee’s commanding performance, supported by a strong ensemble cast, makes it a compelling watch. As the film navigates through the realms of rebellion and redemption, it reminds audiences of the world that exists beyond mainstream cinema, offering a glimpse into a reality not everyone may want to confront.
