Swastik Sanket Film Review
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Swastik Sanket Film Review
The latest film by Sayantan Ghosal explores a storyline that combines elements of cryptography, treasure hunting, and historical references to Nazi Germany and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The film centers around Rudrani, a renowned cryptographer, who is approached by a character named Sigmund Schumacher to help prevent cancer. However, it is soon revealed that Schumacher is involved in a plot orchestrated by Neo-Nazis to use a bioweapon commissioned by Hitler to eliminate Europe's immigrants.
While the film's premise seems intriguing on the surface, it ultimately falls short in execution, resulting in a dull viewing experience. One of the reasons for this is the disjointed merging of elements from Nazi Germany and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's alliance with the Axis powers during World War II. These historical references, while potentially fascinating, do not blend seamlessly with the overarching storyline of cryptography and treasure hunting. As a result, the film lacks a cohesive narrative that can engage and captivate the audience.
Additionally, the inclusion of Neo-Nazis and a bioweapon plot may come across as sensationalistic and potentially insensitive given the historical context. It is crucial to handle such sensitive subjects with care and respect, ensuring that they are depicted in a responsible and meaningful manner. If not handled properly, these elements can undermine the film's intentions and create a sense of discomfort or inappropriateness for the audience.
Furthermore, the characterization and development of the main characters, such as Rudrani and Priyam, may not be compelling enough to hold the viewers' interest throughout the film. A lack of depth and complexity in the characters can make it challenging for the audience to emotionally invest in their journey and the challenges they face.
In summary, despite its noble intentions and the potential for an intriguing storyline, Sayantan Ghosal's film falls short in providing an engaging and cohesive watch. The blending of elements from Nazi Germany and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's alliance with the Axis powers, coupled with a disjointed narrative and underdeveloped characters, contributes to a dull viewing experience. It is important for filmmakers to approach sensitive historical subjects with care and ensure that they are integrated into the narrative in a responsible and meaningful way.
After Rudrani solves Schumacher's problem, immigrants in London begin to fall prey to an unknown virus. Eventually, Rudrani realizes that she has unwittingly unleashed an epidemic. She then vows to find an antidote at any cost.Rudrani’s extensive historical research and extraordinary ability to read signs lead her to Subhash Chatterjee (Rudranil Ghosh), the son of scientist and engineer Satyen Chatterjee (also Rudranil Ghosh), who once worked closely with the Indian National Army aka the Azad Hind Fauj. Eventually, Rudrani, Priyam and Subhash uncover an interesting link between Netaji's actions and Satyen’s efforts to leave behind important clues.
The plot structure makes it apparent that Ghosal genuinely wanted to remind the audience about Netaji’s invaluable yet forgotten contributions to the Indian freedom struggle. The empathy for immigrants and unequivocal condemnation of white supremacy is admirable. However, the film keeps repeating the same historical references over the course of its lengthy running time, making the viewing experience exhausting.Also, the trio hardly faces any opposition from the conspirators, who also require Rudrani’s assistance to save themselves from the epidemic. The lack of thrilling sequences and smooth progression of the heroes' mission make for a dull watch.Saswata Chatterjee does justice to the role of Subhas Chandra Bose with his dignified and restrained performance. Ghosh is also great as a devoted scientist.
Jahan's character in the film is portrayed as a sharp and alert woman, but unfortunately, this comes at the expense of her husband's characterization. Her husband, played by Chakrabarty, is depicted as buffoonish and lacking any outstanding qualities except for having an exceptional memory. While Jahan delivers an average performance, Chakrabarty brings occasional comic relief to the film with his portrayal of the callous character. On the other hand, Figar gives his best as the opportunistic antagonist, Sigmund Schumacher.
The cinematography by Tuban fails to inspire awe or excitement, particularly during the scenes where Rudrani is searching for clues. The visuals lack the necessary impact to create a sense of suspense or intrigue. The editing by Subhajit Singha also falls short in saving the narrative from becoming repetitive and predictable.
In an attempt to compensate for the screenplay's lack of thrilling elements, music director Raja Narayan Deb tries his best. The song 'Ki Khobor' by Savvy Gupta provides a soothing effect, but it cannot entirely make up for the film's shortcomings.
Despite its noble intentions, the film suffers from a weak storyline. The only engaging parts of the film are the historical references and the fictionalized narrative built around them. These elements provide some intrigue but are not enough to sustain the audience's interest throughout the entire film.
In summary, while the film may have its moments, it ultimately falls short in several areas. The characterization of the husband, uninspiring cinematography, repetitive editing, and a weak storyline hinder the overall impact of the film. Although it attempts to explore historical themes, it fails to deliver a compelling and engaging watch.