2018, Hindi, Netflix, 7.5/1 IMDB, Directed by Onir
An unassuming film that caress you with the subtlety in its making and the warmth in its poetic recitals.
Its been a while, since a romantic drama with no noise and pomp turns up your way. Its a rare coincidence when its backed by a decent script as well that tries to grab your attention. RJ Alfaz (played by debutant Zain Khan Durrani), hosts a show about unrequited love, in the radio at 10pm . The show is called ‘Kucch Bheega Alfaaz’ that translates to, ‘rain-drenched words’. The show is a well received one with huge following.
Archana, a leucodermic, is an ardent fan of the show (played by Geetanjali Thapa). She accidentally connects with RJ Alfaz on a wrong call. They end up talking about the show. But Alfaz doesn’t reveal his identity as he prefers to maintain his anonymity. Archana is confused whether she is in love with the person on phone or with the RJ himself.
The devout Bengali milieu accompanied by literary aesthetics keeps one invested in the film, irrespective of its slow pace.
The lead pair are such opposites, with her being so chirpy and him being this introvert with a secret past. Yet they bond well. Clichés are overridden by the charm of storytelling. Trams of Calcutta, where they plan to meet for the first time, is again a cliché that’s worth overlooking. The mise en scene is captivating.
The mesmerizing voice of RJ Alfaz reminds Vidhya Balan’s from Tumhari Sulu. It also reminds the numerous voices on all stations around 10pm, that we hear everyday. But again the deep grief stridden voice, leaves one dying to know the man’s past. The conversation where Alfaz confesses to Archana, has no exaggerations whatsoever and flows seamlessly.
Archana’s chirpiness rubs off on him that his story narration on the radio finds some happy endings. It puts a smile on us the viewers along with its onscreen listeners. Both Archana and Alfaz come out of their cocoons. She from her hide out caused by leukoderma and he from his haunting past. The closing scene is a cute closure of her hearing his voice prior to seeing him.
The director Onir’s elegance and the effective screenplay by Abhishek Chatterjee is a good combo. I was left with a happy smile on my face as the end credits rolled.
A Good Watch.