It’s that time of the year where the stars shine down upon us in Toronto. The ongoing Toronto International Film Festival is a treat for anyone who can appreciate the magic of celluloid. This year’s films had something to offer to everyone. I was fortunate enough to watch Rituparna Ghosh’s The Last Lear.
With a stellar cast, this film is definitely worth a watch. Though I must warn those who are seeking the usual trappings of commercial cinema, you will be disappointed. For followers of mainstream hindi films, this will be a disappointment as I noticed a few members in the audience (predominantly of Asian descent, given the director and cast of the film who are demi-Gods in their home country) felt cheated or misled. But by and large, the response was overwhelming.
It’s remarkable how celluloid can transgress the limitations of language and culture. To the director’s credit, the film is in English and shows off his talented team in a new light. I have been a huge admirer of Amitabh Bachchan for years. But this movie left me spellbound for the sheer talent he displays. It’s a fine art, as they say and you won’t find a better artist than Bachchan who fills every frame with his vivacity and presence.
In a fine tale, based on a book by Utpal Dutt, the chemistry between the lead characters is crackling and undeniably evident. For the first time, I have to admit that Arjun Rampal has done a remarkable job and one only hopes that this movie grants him a better offering of roles. Although Preity Zinta was the leading lady, for me, Shefali Shah, playing a key character, stole the limelight with her fine nuances and attention to detail. She has always impressed as a fine actor who never fails to leave an impact. Western audiences may be familiar with her from Monsoon Wedding.
All in all, if you’ve never been to a film festival, you’re missing out on something. For the star-struck there is a fair amount of star-gazing but for those interested in new cinema, it is a fantastic opportunity to sample cinema from different regions of the world. Globe-trotting was never easier!