Shohorer Ushnotomo Din E movie review (2023)
At the heart of Aritra Sen‘s movie “Sohorer Ushnotomo Dine” lies a relatable crisis. The film doesn’t just tackle the challenges of urban displacement or the drifting apart of a college friend group; it also presents an honest exploration of the notion of leaving Kolkata and the sentimentalized nostalgia that surrounds it in Bengali pop culture.
The film delves candidly into this well-worn theme, providing a realistic portrayal that dismantles the romanticized idea that love alone is enough to traverse continents. The screenplay takes into consideration the true requirements for a relationship’s survival in today’s world, whether it’s with a partner or a city.
Ritoban, coming from a privileged background, contemplates a life in the UK and benefits from the support of his affluent parents. In contrast, Anindita, the daughter of a schoolteacher, faces a more challenging decision, as a scholarship doesn’t resolve all her issues. Ritoban departs for London to pursue a PhD, while Anindita remains in Kolkata. The central narrative occurs five years later, but it is interwoven with flashbacks that introduce new plot developments.
A disillusioned Ritoban returns home mid-semester, struggling with his thesis work, five years after leaving Kolkata. Anindita, now a popular radio jockey and in a different relationship, greets him coldly, leaving Ritoban disheartened. Despite his efforts to reconcile, their relationship never fully recovers.
The initial half of the film captivates the audience, and as the intermission approaches, it seems the second half might evolve into a love triangle. However, the movie avoids that path. Instead, it shifts focus to their personal struggles and emotional baggage, sidelining the tumultuous romance. Anindita receives an opportunity to study performing arts in New York but is overwhelmed by the need to make tough decisions in her personal life. Similarly, Ritoban opens up to his parents about his priorities and makes difficult choices.
Although the emotional barrier between Ritoban and Anindita eventually crumbles, they fail to engage in a heartfelt conversation. Consequently, the last 30 minutes of the film become somewhat frustrating, leaving viewers uncertain about whether they truly factor into each other’s future plans. The film deliberately avoids the clichéd warmth of a romantic comedy, a refreshing departure. It features banter, light-hearted humor, and the classic will-they-won’t-they moments, all without succumbing to predictability.
Sen, known for films like “Boudir Canteen” and “Ghore Pherar Gaan,” skillfully crafts narratives that resonate with modern audiences without relying on clichés or sentimentalities. In this film, he presents a relatable perspective on the concept of homecoming. The camaraderie among Ritoban, Anindita, Sayak, Rehaan, and Christine feels natural and unforced. Solanki and Vikram, who have shared the screen before, possess a likable chemistry that remains engaging. Their strong acting abilities and well-developed character dynamics contribute to the film’s success.
The music by Nabarun Bose and Akash Chakrabarty has been well-received and complements the story effectively. Notably, a matinee screening at a South Kolkata single-screen theater enjoyed nearly 90% occupancy on its second day, an impressive feat for a Tollywood film without A-list stars. This success provides ample reason to explore the film and discover its allure.
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