Doosra Review: Plabita Borthakur, Ankur Vikal Are Superb In Abhinay Deo’s Juxtaposed Revisiting Of Sourav Ganguly’s Iconic Moment
· Free Press Journal
Title: Doosra
Director: Abhinay Deo
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Cast: Plabita Borthakur, Ankur Vikal, Samidha Guru, Tvisha Seema, Krishna Gokani
Where: In theatres
Rating: 3.5 stars
Filmmaker Abhinay Deo’s upcoming theatrical film Doosra is anchored in India’s famous 2002 NatWest Final victory over England. The movie takes the iconic image of a defiant Sourav Ganguly waving his shirt from the Lord’s balcony in an unexpected new direction, weaving this intensely public moment with a deeply private story of a young girl. Tara (played by Plabita Borthakur), a misfit in a conservative household, faces questions about herself and the ways of the world. Watching the Indian captain’s audacious act of rebellion on television, Tara finds the courage to speak truth to power in her world regardless of the consequences.
The story and screenplay are written by Agnello Oswin Dias, Matt Graham and Masha Sajdeh and the film features an original score by Ram Sampat. The cast includes Plabita Borthakur, Ankur Vikal, Samidha Guru, Tvisha Seema, and Krishna Gokani.
Doosra serves as a reminder of the kind of struggles and also opposition which Sourav Ganguly faced both when he had to enter the team and also when he was announced as the captain of India. We are reminded of the entire timeline of events, including the earth shattering match fixing allegations and Sachin Tendulkar's stepping down from the captaincy. At that time, no one knew that Ganguly would become one of the most respected Indian team captains ever, and doubts were all around. And he wasn't only dealing with becoming the captain, but also whether an entire nation could ever trust its cricketers again.
Actors Performances
Plabita gives one of this year’s best performances as a leading lady, questioning everything from household chores to marriage. I always feel the best acting is when you it doesn’t seem like the actor is playing someone else, but has become it. Ankur Vikal as the head of the patriarchal set up is excellent, reminding me in shades of his menacing role in Slumdog Millionaire. Samidha Guru as Tara's mother delivers as the woman who has accepted the part she is supposed to play in such a setup. Navin Ratwa as Tara's brother is apt as the spoilt, uncaring male brat.
Direction
Deo keeps it crisp with while oscillating between both stories. He infuses an element of humour, while at the same time revealing harsh societal truths.
FPJ Verdict
A seamless blend of two stories from different backgrounds, this will remind you of a pivotal time in Indian cricket not spoken about very often nowadays.