[Film] Gangubai Kathiawadi

Watched on 04/02/2024

Reviewed on 04/09/2024

Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali

When watching this movie, I am reminded of a song lyric from Hibiscus Boy: "The best revenge is beauty, and the most beautiful blooming is a counterattack!"

I am deeply impressed with the character development in this film. The protagonist is not portrayed as a flawless white lotus who remains untainted by mud. Instead, she has obvious flaws throughout. And some of her actions are hard to say they are good actions -- but how do we define "good?". Her character feels authentic and vibrant, making her strong vitality in the dark corners all the more admirable and down-to-earth.

In the film, there are two powerful and penetrating statements made by Gandhi, which leave a lasting impression. One of these statements occurs after his election, and the other occurs during an interview. At the first talk, her words about the need for progress and honesty deeply moved us. I rarely enjoy watching scenes with "correct" and "common" slogans, but in the context of her speech, those words indeed touch me in another way -- a certain type of discordant contrast, coupled with self-mockery and stubbornness.

Finally, it is worth admiring India's ability to create epic, cinematic scenes and skillfully use song and dance to elevate the atmosphere of a film, bringing the audience to a crescendo of emotions.

"Her fate was filled with sorrow, yet she wore a smile throughout her life. She aspired to be a movie star, but her life was like a film itself."