Synopsis
After witnessing the brutal murder of his wife and realizing that his life is in jeopardy, a construction site worker escapes with his three-month-old daughter. Determined to evade a violent past and confront a formidable adversary seeking his destruction, he engages in a fierce battle for survival.
The narrative also sheds light on the collaboration between the government, politicians, and mining companies exploiting Native Americans ruthlessly. While the storyline deviates from a linear structure and explores familiar themes, the film remains compelling, with tightly crafted writing that avoids any sense of disjointedness or ambiguity. However, as the movie progresses into its socio-political resolution in the second act, the initial excitement begins to diminish.
Review
In just a brief span of watching Joram, it becomes evident that lead actor Manoj Bajpayee delivers a stellar performance in a film that is both intense and captivating. Whether navigating through tense survival sequences, depicting the harsh reality of tribesmen and rebels, or exploring the struggle between humanity and nature’s destructive impact on the ecosystem, writer-director Devashish Makhija skillfully weaves a multilayered narrative.
Manoj Bajpayee excels in portraying the impoverished father escaping a traumatic past and a seemingly bleak present. His poignant moments with his child evoke a genuine emotional response. Smita Tambe Dwivedi, portraying the heartless MLA, steals the spotlight with a nuanced performance that portrays emotional damage and cold-bloodedness. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, in the role of the conflicted Sub-Inspector Ratnakar Bangul tasked with apprehending Dasru, delivers an outstanding performance. Additionally, Tannishtha Chatterjee impresses in her special appearance.
Makhija adeptly navigates the political aspects of the film without overtly taking sides, presenting diverse perspectives. The narrative goes beyond portraying environmental destruction and the exploitation of tribal communities in the name of development. It also emphasizes the challenges faced by those caught in the middle, labeled as “sympathizers” of rebels or “supporters” of oppressors. Cinematographer Piyush Puty’s excellent camerawork enhances the drama, capturing the essence of tribal life, a father’s fugitive journey, environmental degradation caused by machinery, and the stark contrast of what the once lush land will soon become.
Rating: 3/5
Upon viewing this impactful film, you cannot escape contemplating the damage inflicted upon Mother Nature in the pursuit of progress and development. It deserves to be experienced on the big screen. This film has been awarded three stars out of a possible five.
