What Is the Story About?
Vidya Vincent (Vidya Balan) is the newly appointed DFO. As she takes charge, the news about a Tiger trespassing the villages arrive. How it puts a chain of events in motion, and where it ends? The life of Vidya Vincent as a forest officer treated by her colleagues and family create a tremendous subtext.
Performances?
Vidya Balan leads Sherni with her subtle and intense act. There is no over-dramatization anywhere. It is in complete contrast with the Shakuntala Devi character, we last saw her don. The versatility is what makes Vidya Balan, an actor to watch out for.
The narrative of Sherni is filled with many scenes that allow Vidya Balan to show an understated yet effective side. It also helps that it is an author-backed role written with great detailing and care. Vidya Balan further enhances it with her acting.
Analysis
Amit V Masurkar of Newton fame directs Sherni. The movie is similar to Newton in spirit, especially concerning the lead, but it comes in a different backdrop of the forest.
The set-up is refreshing without any doubt. And to then have a female lead in it is a further masterstroke. It allows the narrative to operate at multiple levels simultaneously with the casting of the ‘female’ in the charge.
Sherni is a women empowerment movie without looking like it at the face of it. However, as we are introduced to different characters from the world, it becomes apparent.
The patriarchal attitude and nonchalant male ego are neatly packed into the proceedings. They happen in an authentic and raw way which gives the narrative its bite time and again.
The duality of ‘Sherni’ with the central lead female character is well done. It is a shared journey for both the characters in a way. It could have been well established, though. And still, parts of the ending strikes a chord. It, unfortunately, highlights the immense potential of Sherni.
The patriarchal theme, although packaged well, still gives a routine vibe. It is a significant reason for the boredom along with the languid pace.
The ‘political’ angle is neatly incorporated into the narrative. However, it, too, doesn’t bring anything fresh to the table. There is also a feel of dejavu considering the last film of the director.
And finally, after all the build-up, the climax feels okay at best. It is definitely not bad, but highlights that the makers intended has not come out well.
Overall, a brilliant Vidya Balan and a terrific ensemble casting make Sherni an okay one-time watch. But, beware of the extremely slow pace in advance.
Other Artists?
Each character in Sherni is well cast, as said above. It is a pleasure to watch them act and convey the right emotions to take the narrative forward. The people at the station, the family and villagers, are picked exceptionally. Once that is done, it is all about holding an interest in the proceedings.
Be it Brijendra Kala, or Sharat Saxena, Vijay Raaj or Ila Arun, no matter the length of the role, they shine. And there are a few more artists like them, who bring alive the world with their well balanced and underplayed acts.
Music and Other Departments?
Multiple names compose the music and background score. It is alright. Also, to their credits, nothing feels uneven or jarring. The cinematography by Rakesh Haridas is neat. The natural forest locales and village side has been superbly captured. The editing by Dipika Karla is good. The writing is adequate. Some technical jargons are introduced, which could be a little hard to understand.
Highlights?
Vidya Balan
Cinematography
Core Theme
Drawbacks?
Very Slow Pace
Clichés
Predictable Tropes
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes, In Parts
Will You Recommend It?
Yes, But With reservations
Sherni Movie Review by Binged Bureau
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