Based on a MOTI NANDI Novel. Depicts the mundane life of conservative North Kolkata (North Calcutta) in its absolute ugliness.|Dec. 07, 2017|132 Min.
Genre: Bangla;Drama
Description: “Baranda | The Balcony” is a 2017 film that delves into the life of Girijapati Biswas, played by Bratya Basu, a man who becomes reclusive after a devastating accident leaves him almost disabled. The story unfolds as a slow exploration of human relationships and their complexities. Girija, now housebound, spends his days on the balcony, observing the world around him with a growing sense of cynicism. His wife, Runu, portrayed by Rituparna Sengupta, becomes the sole provider for the family, managing her husband’s irritability while offering him companionship.
The film highlights the strain in their marriage, which becomes more evident when Ambar, Girija’s distant cousin and a footballer, moves into their home as a paying guest. Runu develops a connection with Ambar, and though Girija senses their growing intimacy, he chooses to remain silent, allowing his suspicions and insecurities to fester. His former colleague, Mohan, whom he suspects of being involved in his accident, also adds to Girija’s turmoil without confronting him.
Girija’s mind becomes a breeding ground for paranoia and distrust. Meanwhile, Mohan is entangled in a relationship with Buli, a young girl with visual impairment. The plot thickens when Girija meets Buli, and the two find solace in each other’s vulnerabilities and physical challenges.
The actors deliver strong performances, with Bratya Basu effectively portraying Girija’s grief and vulnerability. Rituparna Sengupta, though brilliant, occasionally overplays her character’s emotional moments. Shaheb Bhattacharjee, as Ambar, is underutilized, leaving room for further exploration of his role. Despite a somewhat weak script, the film manages to captivate through its nuanced portrayal of human emotions and relationships.
Cast director: Reshmi Mitra
Cast actor: Rituparna Sengupta, Bratya Basu, Saheb Bhattacharjee, Manali Dey, Sreela Majumdar
Original name: বারান্দা – The Balcony