Often, we scroll through multiple ott platforms looking for something interesting to watch, but how many times do we actually find something which genuinely stands out and offers something to cherish for a longer time? Not many, right? So, here are my three recommendations that capture the essence of true cinema.
#1- The Three of Us
I don’t really remember how I felt when I watched the trailer, but I was really intrigued by the star cast. I mean, isn’t it a treat to watch Shefali Shah and Jaideep Alhabat together? It took me some time to actually sit down and watch this movie, as I procrastinated and forgot about its existence until one fine day, Neflix reminded me, “look buddy, you need to watch this”.
The story revolves around a woman suffering from dementia and her longing to go back to her roots. Even though she is forgetting most parts of her life, she remembers the past events very vividly. She reconciles with her childhood friends, and the beautiful dynamic is depicted so well. The simplicity of the storyline and the honest depiction by the actors are really heartwarming.
The bond between the characters is also so wholesome to watch, especially the bond between Pradeep (Jaideep Alhabat) and Sarika (Kadambari Kamat). Through Dilip (Swanand Kirkire) and Sailaja (Shefali Shah), the storyline appropriately depicts the dilemmas and realities of life. The Pradeep-Sailaja bond is what really shines on screen.
Another aspect that kept me immersed is the cinematography. It draws parallels between the city and village landscapes, and each frame depicts beauty in its purest form. It will provide you with a serene cinematic experience.
The poems that Jaideep Alhabat narrates is definitely a treat to listen to.
“Kal to tabhi ayega jab aj khela jayega”
#2- Laapata Ladies
I can’t say it is underrated now, but it was when I watched it. I tuned in randomly without having high expectations, but it really impressed me with its storyline, simplicity, honest performances, subtle humour and undertones of feminism. It is wholesome. If you haven’t watched it yet, please do.
What I liked most about the storyline is that it is not entirely predictable. It keeps you guessing who Jaya actually is the whole time. No one could have played these characters better than these actors.
Do I even need to convince you more when the whole nation is showing so much love for this movie, and deservingly so. Movies that humbly depict the realities of life without being preachy are superior. Cinemas like these are necessary to remind people what Indian Cinema stands for.
Song recommendations from the movie-
1) Dheeme Dheeme by Sherya Goshal and Ram Sampath
2) Sajni re by Arijit singh and Ram Sampath
#3- Chamkila
Who wouldn’t be interested in a movie directed by Imtiaz Ali, featuring our favourite Diljit Dosanjh? Parineeti Chopra also did a commendable job.
The movie is about Amar Singh Chamkila, a popular singer from Punjab who was shot dead along with his wife, Amarjot. It follows a lower class boy who dreams of becoming a singer and depicts how he eventually raises to stardom in Punjab through his hardwork and unique lyrical compositions.
As a non- punjabi who had no idea who Chamkila was or about Punjabi culture, this movie really provides varied perspectives.
Chamkila, widely known for his controversial lyrics, is disliked by some for this very reason, which poses a threat to him.
Another thing which I liked is, it doesn’t glorify the actions of Chamkila nor puts him on a pedestal. It simply tells the story of Chamkila and how he eventually achieved what his heart always desired.
The movie will keep you hooked with its groovy punjabi beats (A little confession here- I couldn’t understand what Diljit and Parineeti were singing, which made the experience a lot more fun. But Neflix’s subtitles helped me understand some of the lyrics).
A cinematic masterpiece indeed. Imtiaz Ali has taken care of every minute detail. What I loved the most were the colourful illustrations. The gloominess of the story doesn’t overpower the other aspects of the plot. It is so well amalgamated with groovy beats, beautiful cinematography and colourful illustrations.
My song recommendations from the Movie-
1) Ishq Mitaye by Irshad Kamil, Mohit Chauhan and A.R.Rehman
2) Vida Karo by Arijit Singh, Jonita Gandhi and A.R. Rahman
I hope you will enjoy my recommendations and if you have already wanted any of these, then, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section.
See you in the next one.❤️
Bismita Mohapatra 
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