Both, timing and relevance of 'Manto' trailer are excellent
'Manto' is a biographical drama directed by Nandita Das. Nawazuddin Siddiqui plays the acclaimed but controversial Urdu poet Saadat Hasan Manto. The trailer of the film came out yesterday and explores the life of Manto right before independence and after the partition. While the trailer makes the film look promising, the relevance and timing are even more striking. Read to know more about 'Manto'.
What we know from the trailer
The trailer shows Manto's time as a screenwriter in Bombay and then the sharp-minded author in Pakistan. Set against the backdrop of the partition-induced tensions and his obscenity trial for 'Cold Meat', the trailer promises a poignant movie. The movie weaves around the famous stories written by Manto, ending with Toba Tek Singh. It, finally, shows how Manto's alcoholism left him homeless and torn.
As usual, Nawazuddin stuns in his role
Nawazuddin managed to portray the eccentricity and brilliance of Manto on-screen. The actor, who is known for his methodical role-portrayal, channeled the artistic brilliance. He shows a man torn between alcoholism, art and desire to be with his family. With his brilliant dialogue delivery, Nawaz forces us to face uncomfortable issues. These issues are as relevant today as they were in his time.
Good films should discomfort the comforted
The trailer shows a few relevant issues. The most important is the Hindu Muslim tension. Manto, born in British India, was deeply aware of the communal tension post partition. As a non-practising Muslim his question about what were we fighting over after independence rings true. Even in today's time and age, a film like 'Manto' would certainly make us introspect.
There can be no limits on art
It should be noted that Manto faced charges for obscenity thrice, in India and in Pakistan. His most notable case was for 'Cold Meat'. However, he always asserted his right to tell stories. In today's day when films, art, and even jokes are being censored, the trailer seems timely. This Independence Day, let us seek freedom from communalism!
