Talvar-Mature reconstruction of bitter reality

It is nearly two years since the parents of Aarushi Talwar were convicted for her murder, but many facets of the sensational case still remain trapped in the realms of wild conjecture. Meghna Gulzar’s <g data-gr-id="33">Talvar</g> sets out to put those unanswered questions back in the public domain. It does a very good job of it. To begin with, the director, making a comeback after a long <g data-gr-id="40">hiatus,</g> does not baulk at the sensitive nature of the subject. She treats the complex themes inherent in the tale with mellow confidence and an unwavering sense of balance.

<g data-gr-id="34">Talvar</g> delves into the unresolved issues pertaining to the 2008 Noida double murder case in the light of details drawn from research and the court proceedings. Working with a marvellous screenplay by the film’s co-producer and music composer Vishal Bhardwaj, the director delivers a low-key but hugely effective drama that works at several levels. The film turns the spotlight both on the circumstances surrounding the actual crime as well as on the three separate investigations that were conducted in the case. <g data-gr-id="35">Talvar</g> goes well beyond the scope of a crime drama to proffer a sharp examination of the many divides and prejudices that define a rapidly changing urban India.

The gallery of characters is made up primarily of the parents (Neeraj Kabi and Konkona Sensharma), the principal investigating officer (Irrfan Khan), his assistant (Sohum Shah) and a bunch of incompetent, insensitive Noida policemen.The clash of cultures is most stark in the exchanges between the accused and the Uttar Pradesh policemen entrusted with the initial crime scene investigation. Irrfan is on the top of his game, as are Neeraj Kabi and Konkona Sensharma. 

In a brief appearance as the investigating officer’s estranged wife, Tabu makes a deep impression. Gajraj Rao, in the guise of the uncouth, paan-chewing inspector who takes next to no time to declare the murder an open and shut case, and English-language theatre pro Atul Kumar, playing the pure Hindi-speaking officer, are superb. <g data-gr-id="36">Talvar</g> is a compelling piece of cinema. Not to be missed.

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Actors: Akshay Kumar, Amy <g data-gr-id="61">Jackson, ,</g> Lara Dutta, Rati Agnihotri, Yograj Singh

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