Terrific Tripathi’s towering portrayal : My quick take on Pankaj Tripathi’s “Main Atal Hoon” (Theatrical release)
In "Main Atal Hoon," Pankaj Tripathi's portrayal of Atalji stands as a towering achievement, reminiscent of the gold standard set by Sir Richard Attenborough's portrayal of Gandhi. Director Ravi Jadhav masterfully guides us through decades of Atalji's life, seamlessly blending Tripathi with the essence of the real Atalji. The film's vast canvas, much like Gandhi, perhaps deserved the nuanced treatment of a multi-episode web series.
Exploring the multidimensional facets of Atalji's persona — a poet, an eloquent speaker, an erudite prime minister, and a statesman — the movie attempts to encapsulate a rich tapestry within the constraints of a feature film. While it left me with a lingering desire for more, the commendable research team unveils facets of Atalji's life that were previously unknown to many.
Pankaj Tripathi owns the show from start to finish, delivering a performance that leaves other characters pale in comparison, a phenomenon familiar in biographies. The art direction impeccably recreates pre-independent India and post-independence Bharat, while the subtle integration of Atalji's poems and Manoj Muntashir's soul-stirring song add layers of depth. Tripathi's reenactment of Atalji's speeches is nothing short of a treat, with lines that gave me goosebumps. Also loved the creative camerawork, wherein some silhouette shots are simply awesome (one of PM Nehru)
Piyush Mishra's brief yet impactful role adds another layer of brilliance to the performance front, though some characters fall short in development and execution. Personally resonating with the memories of meeting Atalji in Muscat, Oman, added a sentimental touch to the experience.
"Main Atal Hoon" is a journey not to be missed, offering a contemporary historical account of India's march towards becoming Bharat. It's an ode to a remarkable statesman, a poetic orator, and an unforgettable chapter in the unfolding story of our nation.
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