Cast
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Director
- Basu Chatterjee
Writer
- Manohar Shyam Joshi
- Ashish Burman
Producer
- Jai Pawar
- Rajiv Suri
- Raj Prakash
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Manzil examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Basu Chatterjee brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1979, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Manzil took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 114 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Manzil shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Earth, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Manzil offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Like Stars on Earth and Water explore similar territory, Manzil stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 14, 1979
- Runtime: 1h 54m