Bombay

Movie Overview

Directed by: Mani Ratnam

Produced by: S. Sriram, Mani Ratnam, Jhamu Sughand

Storyline

A Hindu man and a Muslim woman fall in love in a small village and move to Mumbai, where they have two children. However, growing religious tensions and erupting riots threaten to tear the family apart.

Quick Facts

Release Date	1995-03-10
Runtime	141 minutes
Budget	N/A
Box Office	$2,550,000
Languages	தமிழ்

Cast & Characters

The movie showcases exceptional performances from these talented actors:

Production Details

Production Companies	Ayngaran International, Aalayam Productions
Filming Locations	India
Cinematographers	N/A

Critical Reception

This movie has earned an IMDb rating of 7.1/10, based on 72 votes. The audience feedback underscores its recognition of the film’s originality.

Why Watch?

If you’re a fan of Drama, Romance, Bombay is highly recommended. From its standout performances to its distinctive storytelling, this film is sure to make an impact.

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Movie Review: Bombay

“Bombay,” directed by Mani Ratnam and released in 1995, is a powerful drama that explores love, communal strife, and human resilience. Set against the backdrop of the Bombay riots of the early 1990s, the film is a poignant portrayal of religious intolerance and the emotional toll it takes on individuals caught in its web. With its evocative storyline, memorable music, and strong performances, “Bombay” remains one of the most significant films of Indian cinema.

The story revolves around Shekhar, a Hindu man, and his Muslim wife, Shaila, who fall in love and marry against the wishes of their families. After their marriage, they relocate to Bombay, where their lives take a tragic turn during the riots that divide the city along religious lines. The film chronicles their struggle to survive in a city torn apart by violence, as Shekhar and Shaila face prejudice, loss, and the heartbreaking impact of communalism. The emotional weight of the narrative is enhanced by the human drama of love, sacrifice, and hope.

Arvind Swamy, in his portrayal of Shekhar, brings both tenderness and strength to the character. His journey from an idealistic young man to a husband trying to protect his family amidst violence is both believable and moving. Manisha Koirala, as Shaila, delivers an equally heartfelt performance, capturing the vulnerability and strength of her character. The chemistry between the lead pair is one of the movie’s strongest elements, as their love story forms the emotional heart of the film.

Mani Ratnam’s direction is masterful, as he weaves together a love story and a socio-political commentary with finesse. The screenplay is tight, with every scene contributing to the larger narrative of love overcoming hate and the resilience of the human spirit in times of adversity. Ratnam’s approach to storytelling, combined with his sensitivity to the subject matter, ensures that the film doesn’t feel preachy but instead offers a genuine portrayal of the struggles of its characters.

The cinematography by P.C. Sreeram is stunning, capturing both the grandeur of Bombay and the intimate moments between the characters. The visuals are rich with emotion, whether it’s the sweeping shots of the city or the close-ups that capture the pain and determination of the protagonists. The film’s pace is steady, drawing the audience into the characters’ world and ensuring their emotional investment in the story.

The music, composed by A.R. Rahman, is one of the film’s most iconic aspects. The soundtrack is filled with hauntingly beautiful songs that complement the film’s themes of love and tragedy. Tracks like “Hamma Hamma,” “Tu Hi Re,” and “Dil Se Re” became anthems of the time, with Rahman’s music adding an extra layer of emotional depth to the film. The background score is equally effective, enhancing the tension during the riot sequences and elevating the emotional moments.

At its core, “Bombay” is a film about human relationships and the consequences of hatred. While it deals with religious conflict, it also shows the universal nature of love, depicting how it transcends barriers. The film does not shy away from depicting the brutal realities of communal violence, but it also provides a sense of hope and resilience, showing how people can rise above hate through compassion and understanding.

The film is not without its flaws. Some might find the handling of the communal violence a bit simplistic, and certain sequences feel melodramatic. However, these minor flaws do not take away from the impact of the film as a whole. “Bombay” is a film that lingers long after the credits roll, with its messages of peace, love, and unity resonating deeply.

In conclusion, “Bombay” is a landmark film that balances emotional storytelling with social commentary. With its strong performances, memorable music, and powerful direction, it remains one of Mani Ratnam’s finest works. “Bombay” is a timeless classic that speaks to the heart, urging viewers to reflect on the cost of communalism and the importance of love in a divided world.