Sitting in the cinema hall, we munch popcorn while our eyes are glued to the silver screen, carefully watching how the story unfolds. Visuals have the power to change and transform, as they are better understood by people. Viewing something is much better understood than listening or reading. And thus, with the idea to change society, cinema was born.
Several years have passed; filmmakers have brought stories of different genres. But what stands out is that now, the cinema yearns to bring a change.
Looking at the recently released movies, we shall notice how many have stood out and gathered praise from the audience for voicing unsaid, complex issues.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Gangubai Kathiawadi is a heart-wrenching yet powerful story about a sex worker who doesn’t let her circumstances bury her within the brothels. Instead, she faces them with utmost grace, inspiring other sex workers around her too. The movie demystifies what it feels like to have nothing in your control. Still, you rise from the ashes and prove that your situation cannot define you!
Jayeshbhai Jordaar, directed by Divyang Thakkar, is an amalgamation of filmmaking skills to talk about the sensitive issue of girl child. Though it revolves around a serious topic, it makes people laugh by putting the actors in hilarious situations. At the same time, it ensures that the central theme remains in the spotlight. Through wonderful dramatic and comedy scenes, the film raises the message that a girl child isn’t a burden.
The inspiring musical movie, Cinderella by Kay Cannon released in 2021, is a contemporary take on the age-old fairytale Cinderella. The 2021 movie illustrates that a girl doesn’t need a hero to come, rescue her and unravel her worth. In an era when young girls are concerned about their appearance and kindle a dislike for themselves after seeing perfect models, the cinema demonstrates that it doesn’t matter what others think about you; only what you think about yourself when you look in the mirror matters.
The recent release, Jug Jugg Jeeyo also focuses on an imperative topic. It shows that divorce isn’t taboo and features two different generations dealing with it. The movie highlights that we must put our best foot forward to make relationships sustain. However, if they hamper our well-being and become tiresome, it is okay to move on. Also, unlike many movies, Jug Jugg Jeeyo decodes a beautiful relationship between a young woman and her mother-in-law. The cliché fight isn’t entertained here. On the contrary, the film showcases that the two can have a magnificent bond, understand each other and share unconditional love.
The cinema has evolved and proves that it aims to bring positive change in society. I would love to mention a few television series as they have become an important part of cinema today. Heartstopper defines queer relationships and how it feels to be part of the LGBTQ community; The Bold Type indicates that women can have successful careers and personal lives; finally, Mai illustrates that when it comes to her children, a mother can do anything.
Contemporary cinema has now moved on from orthodox ideas and is leaping gracefully towards building a new world by discussing hush-hush topics and normalizing the same. The cinema around us is changing for the good!
Reference:
Feature Image – www.the-bigger-picture.com
Palak Dogra
Hey, this is Palak Dogra, a media student, writer, and blogger. In this busy world, I find my escape in writing.
