Roll No. 56

Roll No. 56 is a gripping Indian drama-thriller film emerging from the Gujarati cinema, released in the year 2017. Directed by Bhavin Trivedi, the film is craftily engraved with shades of black and white, reflecting nuances of everyday life with extraordinary precision. Starring seasoned actor Ashok Kumar Beniwal, along with Het Dave and Shruti Gholap in pivotal roles, the film pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling to portray the dark realities that lurk within urban societies.

The story is layered and pulls you in from the start, nudging you to keep up with its intricate narrative. Underlying the tale is a daring critique of contemporary society and its malaise – particularly questioning the devastating impact of human greed and corruption. It does not shy away from harsh imageries and uncomfortable conversation, which result in a profoundly impactful cinematic experience.

The film centers around the life of a lower-middle-class man, deftly portrayed by Het Dave, who ends up in a labyrinth of crime and corruption owing to circumstances and despair - a plotline that complements the psychological undertones of the movie perfectly. His story is subtly interwoven with the life stories of other characters bringing out disturbing realities about the human psyche. Shruti Gholap impressively portrays the role of a woman trapped in the web of societal norms, adding another dynamic to the narrative.

Ashok Kumar Beniwal steals the show with his impactful performance, breathing life into his character and offering an assertive presence that anchors the entire movie. His veteran charm and unabridged acting prowess vividly complement the nature of his role. The rest of the ensemble cast also contribute excellently to creating the narrative's raw and textured tones.

The screenplay of Roll No. 56 stands out with its crisp dialogues and measured pace, carrying the audience along as the storyline unravels, while masterfully maintaining the tension. Each scene is carved exquisitely, adding depth and fostering an emotional connection with the characters. It is an intense narrative that serves as a mirror to society, reflecting miseries that are mostly unravelled in hushed whispers.

Furthermore, the artful cinematography captures the essence of the socio-economic disparity and the humdrum of urban life with striking flair. Every frame is a reflection of eclectic visual artistry, ensuring the audiences are visually treated as they delve deeper into the narrative. The music, though sparingly used, plays an integral part in setting the tone of the scenes. The minimalistic sound palette adds an unspoken layer of depth to the critical scenes, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

Another noteworthy aspect of Roll No. 56 is its ambiguous morality. It predominantly dwells in shades of grey rather than black or white, refusing to present a clear line between the good and the bad. This ambiguity helps to maintain a realistic portrayal of humanity, where the dividing lines are often blurred.

Importantly, the setting of the film in a Gujarati backdrop offers an authentic glimpse into the regional culture and traditions, thus incorporating a unique cultural dimension to the film. It reflects upon the harsh realities faced by people in lower-middle-class households in the particular region and culture, thus adding to the movie's gravitas.

In a nutshell, Roll No. 56 is a poignant drama that delves into the depths of human character, societal corruption, and the impact of circumstances on an individual's life. While it is a thrilling cinematic ride, it is also enormously thoughtful and reflective of the society we live in. It is a significant contribution to Gujarati cinema with its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and stark depiction of the human psyche. This film is surely recommended for those who appreciate gripping narratives that run deeper than the surface-level.