Review of the film Aattam: Anand Ekarshi’s National Award Winner Examines Male Hypocrisy with Unwavering Eyes

Overview of Aattam: A Cinematic Treasure

Aattam: The Play, Anand Ekarshi’s first Malayalam film, has swept the Indian film industry, taking home three major honors, including Best Feature Film at the 70th National Film Awards. In addition to surpassing large-scale blockbusters, this independent, low-budget movie has made a name for itself by delving into difficult subjects like sexual harassment and male hypocrisy. Aattam is a film that begs for attention and reflection because of its compelling story and strong acting.

Aattam Movie Synopsis: A Victory of Low-Cost Filmmaking
Pushing the Boundaries on a Budget

Aattam is a powerful example of the storytelling power of big-budget movies, especially in a year that was dominated by Rishab Shetty’s Kantara and Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan, Pathaan, and Dunki. Even though it only took in Rs 1.5 crore at the box office, this movie was able to surpass its more commercially successful peers, demonstrating that meaningful content is just as important to cinema as glitz and glamour.

National Honor for a Masterpiece of Art
The National Film Awards’ acknowledgement of Aattam is a significant milestone for India’s independent film industry. Not only did Anand Ekarshi’s film win Best Feature Film, but it also took home the Best Screenplay and Best Editing awards. These accolades serve as a testament to the movie’s taut narrative structure and its capacity to captivate viewers without the use of clichéd movie devices.

Aattam Movie Trailer & Synopsis: A Gripping Tale of Male Hypocrisy

Aattam’s Unflinching Narrative

The Play within Aattam is an adaptation of Girish Karnad’s Hayavadana (1971), setting the stage for a deeper exploration of male hypocrisy. The film follows the story of Anjali (Zarin Shihab), the only woman in a male-dominated theatre troupe, who becomes a victim of sexual harassment after a successful play performance. The incident triggers a series of events that expose the underlying misogyny and moral policing prevalent within the group.

A Glimpse into the Dark Realities of Society

The film’s trailer offers a glimpse into the harrowing experience of Anjali as she navigates through a world where men close ranks to protect one of their own. The story unfolds as a whodunnit and whydunnit, but with a twist—Aattam does not seek to provide closure or justice. Instead, it leaves the audience grappling with the uncomfortable truth that in a patriarchal society, the victim often suffers in silence, while the perpetrator walks free.

Aattam Movie Review: A Bold Commentary on Social Issues

Themes of Sexual Harassment and Male Hypocrisy

In Aattam, the men around Anjali admire her only when she conforms to their expectations—smiling, accommodating, and pleasing to the eye. However, when she asserts her individuality, she is met with resistance and judgment. This mirrors the larger societal tendency to suppress women’s voices and deny them dignity. The film does not shy away from highlighting the toxic masculinity that permeates every aspect of Anjali’s life, making it a powerful statement on the pervasive nature of gender-based violence.

Art-World Hypocrisy and the Struggles of Independent Cinema

Vinay Forrt’s character, Vinay, represents the art-world hypocrisy that Aattam so brilliantly critiques. As a theatre actor who loses his spotlight to a film star, Vinay’s journey reflects the broader struggles of independent cinema in the face of commercial domination. The film also touches upon how mainstream actors and films have overshadowed traditional art forms, leaving artists like Vinay grappling for relevance.

Aattam’s Impact and Reception

A Film That Divides Opinion

While Aattam has been lauded for its bold themes and artistic execution, it is not without its critics. Some may find the film’s generalization of male behavior unsettling, while others might see it as a necessary critique in the post-#MeToo world. The film’s refusal to provide a neat resolution can be frustrating, but it is this very quality that makes Aattam a standout piece of cinema.

A Call for Self-Reflection

For many women, Aattam will resonate deeply, offering a sense of vindication and recognition of their struggles. For men, the film serves as a mirror, urging them to confront the uncomfortable truths about their own behavior and the societal norms that enable it. Aattam is not just a film; it is a call to action, a reminder that the status quo needs to be challenged.

Conclusion: A Cinematic Experience Worth Watching

With a star rating of 3.5 out of 5, Aattam is a film that should not be missed. Streaming now on Amazon Prime, this National Award-winning masterpiece is a must-watch for anyone interested in thought-provoking cinema that challenges societal norms. Whether you find yourself applauding its audacity or critiquing its approach, one thing is certain—Aattam will leave a lasting impact on its viewers.