Movie Review: Ghost of Maikhuli

“Ghost of Maikhuli” is an Assamese film that subtly weaves together extremism and political manoeuvering, creating an underbelly that leaves an undesirable impact on the citizenry. The film boasts impressive action choreography while suffering from a somewhat weak script and uneven performances.

The film cleverly utilizes the existing political landscape and the long-standing history of extremism in Assam to create a chilling atmosphere, using the backdrop of Maikhuli. It subtly underlines the dangerous nexus between politicians and extremist groups, hinting at how political ambitions can fuel violence. However, this potent theme is not fully explored, leaving the narrative feeling incomplete.

A Screenplay that Starts Slow But Builds Up Pace

The biggest drawback of the film lies in its writing. The dialogues often feel stilted and overly dramatic, lacking the authenticity that would have resonated better with the rustic, grounded aesthetic the filmmakers seem to be striving for.

On the other hand, the action choreography is undeniably the film’s strongest point. The fight sequences are raw, brutal, and incredibly well-executed, showcasing a level of skill rarely seen in films with such a modest budget. These action scenes, with their gritty realism, are truly captivating and leave a lasting impact.

Mixed Bag of Performances

The acting performances are a mixed bag. Bahrul Islam delivers a commendable performance, lending credibility to his character. Director Pankaj Soram, casting himself as the lead, delivers a solid performance. While he may not be a seasoned actor, he brings a raw energy and intensity to his role. He is particularly effective in the action sequences, convincingly executing kicks, jumps, and punches, and even more convincingly yelping in pain. Darathie Bhardwaj, who we have also seen in “Jolsobi” and “Bornodi Bhotiai,” continues to impress. She is a rising star in the Assamese film industry, and her performance here further solidifies her talent. Much of the supporting cast, however, while undeniably authentic in their rawness, lack the nuance and depth required to truly inhabit their characters.

Overall:

“Ghost of Maikhuli” is a film with immense potential, but it ultimately falls short of its ambitions. While the action is undeniably impressive and the exploration of extremism is intriguing, the film is hampered by a half-baked script and uneven performances. But its flaws notwithstanding, “Ghost of Maikhuli” remains a significant endeavor and pushes Assamese cinema ahead.

Release Date: 14/10/2022

Director: Pankaj Soram

Cast: Pankaj Soram, Manas M Daimary, Baharul Islam, Kamal Lochan, Darathie Bhardwaj, Sandhya Hazarika

Available on: REELDRAMA

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