Women in Tony Da's Films

Last night I watched "Lost", directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, lovingly known as "Tony Da", who captivates viewers with his profound storytelling and unforgettable characters. Distributed by Zee5 and released on the 16th of February, 2023, this film boasts a stellar cast including the talented Yami Gautam in the lead role, along with Pankaj Kapur, Rahul Khanna, and many others.

Tony Da, known for his exceptional portrayal of women in his previous works, once again proves his brilliance with "Lost". We recall the beautifully crafted characters like "Brinda" played by Radhika Apte in Antaheen "Nandita" portrayed by Rituparna Sengupta, and "Preeti" brought to life by Raima Sen in Anuranan.With Lost, the list expands even further as I come across "Vidhi Sahani", portrayed flawlessly by Yami Gautam.

Poster of the movie Lost

Tony Da possesses a unique ability to breathe life into his female characters, infusing them with attitude, resilience, and an indelible sense of self. It's difficult to describe, but the women in Tony Da's films exude an incredible vibrance that resonates deeply with the audience. They remind us of the "didi", "kakima", and "thamma" -s we encounter in our everyday lives. They don't merely feel like characters; they sit beside us, with a bowl of muri in hand, narrating their stories of survival in the bustling metropolis.

In Lost, we are introduced to "Vidhi Sahani", a journalist, whose journey takes us on an emotional rollercoaster. Her dynamic relationship with her "Nanu", portrayed by the incomparable Pankaj Kapur, adds a much-needed sense of solace throughout the film. Tony Da's films transport us to a parallel universe where the neighborhood beckons just beyond our windows, eagerly waiting for us to traverse its pathways.

What I personally appreciate most about Tony Da's craftsmanship is his ability to bring forth the essence of women. Whether it's the enchanting "Raat Jaga Tara" from "Antaheen" or the soul-stirring "Shohag" from "Buno Haansh," his films transport us to their world, unraveling tales of love, life, and destiny that we all seek amidst the chaos of our own existence. Additionally, the music in Tony Da's films, composed by the maestro Shantanu Moitra , deserves special mention. Shantanu-da weaves melodies that evoke nostalgia, reminiscent of the divine sound of the "Godhulir Shankh" or the fluttering of one's heart during a first love. His compositions become the lullabies that soothe our souls, allowing us to hear the words that often go unheard.

"Lost" is a cinematic experience that showcases the extraordinary talent of Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury and his remarkable ability to craft narratives that touch our hearts. With its unforgettable characters, captivating storytelling, and enchanting music, this film takes us on a journey of introspection and reflection. It reminds us of the magic of women's voices, the beauty of their stories, and the profound impact they have on our lives.

Author:

Ankur Datta

Editor:

Garima Dhanania