Bandit Queen

Saw the movie - 6Th September 2007
Location - Home, Wellington
Rating - * * * * *
Comment -
I have wanted to watch this movie for a very long time, and found it in a very unassuming place - Wellington City Library.
The movie is good. In terms of acting, it is FANTASTIC!!! It is no wonder that the beautiful Seema Biswas was critically acclaimed for her role.
So then what is wrong with the movie... I haven't read Phoolan Devi's autobiography but from the research that I did, what I found out was that Phoolan Devi herself though alive at the time was never consulted while making the movie.
The movie was jessed up to ensure its commercial success rather than its authenticity. Though that is not surprising, it was definitely disappointing. Because the first thing you see in the move are the words "this is a true story" rather than "this is based on a true life story / inspired by a true life story".
The movie focuses on Phoolan Devi’s repeated rape, yes she was raped, but I would have preferred a movie that focusing on her achievements despite the fact. It is no wonder Phoolan Devi never endorsed the movie despite being depicted as a hero. Who would like their most traumatized moments in life re-played and emphasized on.
Wasn’t she after all more than just a rape victim?
Though the movie in its own right is good, it was disappointing that the story was so hurtful to the very person it tries to pay homage to.

Chak De India

Saw the movie - 4Th September 2007
Location - Regent On Manners, Manners Mall, Wellington
Rating - * * * * *
Comment -
Amazing, just Fantastic!!!!
Very refreshing, very unexpected.
Definitely recommend it.
The first Hindi movie I think which has some solid research and credibility rather than elaborate sets. The hockey players look very real.... and it seems that's because they are real to some extant. Like to know more?
We need more movies made in this style, with loads of research and authenticity.