Mantostaan

"Mantostaan" is a 2017 film directed by Rahat Kazmi, which is based entirely on the work of the iconoclastic Urdu writer Saadat Hasan Manto. The film boasts a promising cast including Sonal Sehgal, Shoib Nikash Shah, and Aaditya Pratap Singh. This dark, raw, and powerful film is a cinematographic representation of four of Manto's most controversial pieces: Thanda Gosht, Khol Do, Aakhri Salute, and Assignment.

Mantostaan explores Saadat Hasan Manto’s most controversial works in an attempt to portray the horrific condition of the human spirit during periods of intense social upheaval such as the India-Pakistan partition era. It is seen as a bold endeavor to encapsulate the morose tales of sin, survival, and the ultimate endgame: man's inhumanity to man.

The movie does not conform to traditional storytelling methods, using Manto’s tales as a kind of prism to reflect upon the nature and reality of our shared humanity. It makes an effort to reach into the depth of Manto's stark, simple prose and to draw out the raw agony that he so eloquently portrayed in his work.

To breathe life into these stories Rahat Kazmi, weaves the four stories together, switching back and forth between them periodically, creating an interlinked narrative. One can perceive the subtle recurring motifs of pain, violence, displacement, and helplessness, that pervade each character’s life in one form or another. There is a common thread running through all four narratives: the suffering and trauma inflected by an entrenched hatred and disharmony, and its disastrous fallout.

The opening narrative, "Thanda Gosht" is set predominantly in Lahore, and it is a vehicle perfectly suited to the intricate detail and artistry of Sonal Seghal who delivers a performance every bit as chilling as the narrative itself. Her portrayal of a dancer and prostitute, whose life takes a tragic turn, is imbued with a profound sense of loss and despair.

"Mantostaan" artfully employs cinematography to conjure the desired impact. The cinematographer makes intelligent use of lighting, and both the rural landscape and the urban regions are presented with an eloquent realism that is almost visceral. The colour tones and cinematography are expressive, blending together to capture the essence of the narrative. Shot on location in the region of Jammu and Kashmir, the rustic setting of these tales stages the unfolding narrative against an apparent serenity that belies the storm brewing within.

The soundtrack, while minimalistic, does not reduce the film's power or mood; rather it gives ample scope for the audience to immerse themselves in the narrative's despair and dread. Furthermore, the authenticity of the era is carefully preserved throughout the movie; the detailed sets, costumes, and attributes of daily life immediately transported the audience back to 1947.

While "Mantostaan" is a dark film, it is not bereft of redemption. The characters might be trapped in devastating cycles of violence and despair, but they are not defined by them. Despite their agonizing experiences, these characters bear a raw human strength in the face of the insurmountable, bringing to light Manto's belief in the inherent goodness of humankind.

"Mantostaan" is not a film for the fainthearted. Its raw brutality and poignant portrayals of humanity's darker side suggest a piercing social commentary on the impact of divisive politics on ordinary lives. Its depiction of a historically traumatic period, combined with exceptional performances, makes it a compelling watch.

Critics have appreciated "Mantostaan" for its daring portrayal of a chaotic time period and its effort to bring forth Manto's work on the silver screen. Much of the praise goes to the cast for their efforts to translate Manto's harrowing narratives to screen with immense grit and conviction.

In conclusion, "Mantostaan" is a compelling cinematic experience, showcasing the horrors of partition through Saadat Hasan Manto’s stark and unnerving narratives. It's uncomfortable and uncompromising, which makes it all the more relevant in today's world. The film is not merely about the stories that Manto penned down; it is a poignant commentary on society then and now, challenging the audience to question the cyclical nature of violence and its manifestation in society's fabric. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate intense, thought-provoking cinema.