The Great Indian Kitchen Review
Director
Jeo Baby
Stars
Nimisha Sajayan, Suraj Venjaramoodu
Writer
Jeo Baby
Producer
Dijo Augustine, Jomon Jacob, Vishnu Rajan, Sajin S Raj
Runtime
100 minutes
Deals
Release Date
January 15, 2021
The Great Indian Kitchen Review
“The Great Indian Kitchen,” a poignant remake of the acclaimed Malayalam original, delves deep into the harsh realities of a patriarchal society, revealing the stifling norms and relentless chores that women often endure. Directed by ____, this film tells a story that transcends boundaries, emphasizing the need to address gender disparities in every household. This review explores the film’s narrative, performances, and its alignment with the source material while offering insights into its impact.
A Subtle but Impactful Tale
The film commences with a woman (Aishwarya Rajesh) filled with dreams as she enters into wedlock. Her husband, a sociology teacher, staunchly upholds the idea that the role of ‘Kudumba Thalaivar’ (family leader) belongs to men, even if they fail to meet the family’s financial needs. This ideology is not just confined to his personal life but extends to his teachings. However, when the woman’s mother-in-law is absent for several months, her life becomes a relentless cycle of arduous household chores.
Unveiling Everyday Struggles
While the storyline may appear straightforward, it effectively portrays the trials and tribulations faced by the central character. Her daily life, predominantly confined to the kitchen, becomes a silent battlefield. This film doesn’t rely on conventional conflicts; instead, it highlights the conflict inherent in a woman spending her entire life in the kitchen. The repetitive scenes of the protagonist washing dishes and cleaning sinks are transformed into a poignant portrayal of her struggle, making the audience reflect on the unnoticed challenges of real life.
Performances That Resonate
Rahul Ravindran delivers a compelling performance as a chauvinistic and self-centered man. While there are moments where he struggles to emote, his portrayal effectively engages viewers with the character’s flaws and contradictions. However, the film’s climax feels somewhat abrupt, lacking the organic depth required for a more impactful conclusion. A few additional sequences could have allowed viewers to better connect with the character’s pain and liberation.
Aishwarya Rajesh’s Stellar Act
Aishwarya Rajesh, with her powerful performance, anchors the film. The role seems tailor-made for her, marking one of the highlights of her career. Her portrayal beautifully captures the character’s resilience and silent rebellion against the oppressive norms. Yogi Babu’s unexpected cameo brings moments of relief and serves as a surprise element in the narrative.
Technical Brilliance
Apart from the background score, the film’s cinematography significantly elevates certain sequences. It complements the storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact of key moments. The film remains faithful to its source material, staying true to the original’s essence.
Conclusion
“The Great Indian Kitchen” is a compelling and impactful film that adeptly addresses the issues of gender disparity and societal norms. With powerful performances, especially from Aishwarya Rajesh, and its faithful adaptation of the source material, it successfully delivers its message. While some aspects could have been further developed for a more profound impact, it remains a thought-provoking cinematic experience. The film’s portrayal of the everyday struggles of women is a reminder of the need for change and equality in our society.
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Trivia
- The film's director drew inspiration from real-life incidents and interviews with women who have experienced similar struggles, adding authenticity to the storyline.
Goofs
- In one scene, a character's hairstyle changes abruptly from one shot to the next, creating a minor continuity error.