Filmmaker Nagesh Kukkunoor who is best known for films like Hyderabad Blues, Iqbal and Dor had his luck running flat on box-office and as well as with critics. Not only were his movies like Aashayein, Mod etc. taking in audiences at the theaters but were also being criticized for the poor execution. However, this time he is back with the best in Lakshmi.
The Storyline mostly revolves around with the harsh realities of human trafficking and child prostitution, the movie overviews the life about a 13 year old girl Lakshmi (Monali Thakur) who is abducted and sabotaged into prostitution. Thrown into brothell, Lakshmi gets raped, then again repeatedly brutally battered by same men and pimp China (Nagesh). But the most grisly conditions don't break her will to retaliate and after repeated attempts for redemption, she finally makes her way out for a better life.
The story moves based on true events. There's hardly any subtle play in Lakshmi. Nagesh, who brings to fore the plaguing issues of child prostitution and illegal human trafficking that yet are to be eradicated from the rural heartlands of India, relies heavily on shock value to leave the audience with a gut-wrenching experience, assumedly with a hope to bring a change.
Moreover, it's the crudity of the language, mannerisms of the actors and situation that Nagesh shows his prowess in, however, the rest of the portions get amateurishly handled. One expects nail-biting courtroom drama but owing to lackadaisical dialogues it loses the punch.Most of the gruesome scenes are very in-your-face but you wonder after a point whether such graphical representation is actually required? Couldn't the audience be left to imagine the worst?
Singer turned actress Monali Thakur is spot on in her debut film. Her childlike face brilliantly juxtaposes with the crudity of the brothels and viciousness of men. Lakshmi works best not just for its shocking story of depraved and immoral humans but also for its casting and acting.
Satish Kaushik's portrayal of the brothel owner is absolutely brilliant and so is the case with Nagesh who maliciously plays a pimp. While the debutant actress impresses, you have to watch the seasoned actors like Satish Kaushik and Shefali Shah performances.
To sum it up, Lakshmi is a story that's disturbing, shocking but a courageous effort. Watch this movie for stellar performances. and very good time to releases this movie at March 8, which is moreover a good day to encourage woman.
Rating:**1/2
