|
 Aamir Khan and Anusha Rizvi’s Peepli Live has been making waves since
even before its extremely well marketed release all over the world.
Perhaps Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan deserves the title of ‘King Khan’
this time as he delivers one Oscar-worthy film after another, whether in
the capacity of an actor or a producer. This is Aamir’s second film to
the chosen as the official entry from India to the Academy Awards.
Peepli Live’s simple story, and an even simpler approach to the
narrative, has made the film an instant hit with critics and viewers
alike, and was touted to be one the year’s best films right from the get
go. A most commendable effort on debutant director Anusha Rizvi’s part,
Peepli Live has all the ingredients to make it an international
favourite. Audiences in Europe and America seem to appreciate the rustic
and rural setting in Indian films, as opposed to the unmatchable of
glitz and glamour of, let’s say for example, Karan Johar and Yash Raj’s
films.
The grit and grunge of the poor and underpriviledged in India has
been the backdrop for many a successful film and Peepli Live’s satirical
angle on farmer suicides gives it the extra oomph that might just carry
it into the nominations for Best Foreign Film at the Oscars. The story
revolves around Natha, a poor farmer who is about to lose his plot of
land. When Natha figures that a quick solution to his problem might be
the government aid program which gives money to the family of farmers
who have committed suicide, he decides to end his life. Unfortunately
for Natha, his decision to commit suicide to help his family becomes a
national issue as overzealous politicians, bureaucrats, and of course,
the media, hype up his story out of proportion, each for their own
ulterior motives.
The film has had a unanimous verdict of being a winner among audiences
everywhere and is touted to be the uncontested entry from India this
year. However, some do say that the film’s minus point, which may
prevent it from making it into the final five, is its close resemblance
to Billy Wilder’s award-winning 1951 film, Ace in the Hole (later
renamed The Big Carnival), which also dealth with the media and how
newsmakers report what they report.
As of now, it’s a waiting game for Peepli Live and all its fans as the
official list of nominees for the 83rd Annual Academy Awards will be
announced on January 25th, 2011.
Sampurn Wire
|
