Saw Phullwanti Marathi movie today... felt writing about "Phullwanti" especially due to its cinematography, a grand, emotionally rich narrative, performances and perhaps a visually stunning presentation with practical effects in the age of VFX.
I think more context about the main character Phullwanti would have added depth to her character but due to budget constraints makers might have kept her intro limited for the opening scenes... but the movie is one of a kind and each and every actor gave an emotionally invested and heartfelt performance, may it be Gashmir, Prajakta, Vaibhav Mangle, Kshitish Date, Jayvant Vadkar and Hasyajatra fame actors. Phullwanti made a strong impression, with each actor bringing something special to their role. This movie is a musical treet for the audiences. Phullwanti levels with the cinematic masterpieces like Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Devdas" and Ashutosh Govarikar's "Lagaan". The songs and dance numbers in Phullwanti were exceptionally captivating and skillfully executed-almost like they had a magnetic charm. The music and choreography really stood out! Prajakta's dedication and passion for dance truly elevated this film! Phullwanti successfully captured the essence of the Peshwa era with practical effects, set designs, and attention to detail rather than relying heavily on VFX. This approach often creates a more immersive and authentic experience, drawing the audience into the historical setting. The limited use of VFX likely allowed the film's artistry, costumes, and sets to shine, making the depiction of that era feel more genuine and appealing. It's impressive when a film can bring history to life so vividly! Snehal Tarde's direction, Pravin Tarde's well-crafted script and dialogues, and Mahesh Limaye's stunning sets and cinematography seem to have come together beautifully which brought the Peshwa era to life in a remarkable way. Every frame feels like a painting, emphasizing the historical richness and the grandeur of that time period. It's rare to find a film that captures history with such artistry, making it a once-in-a-decade masterpiece! Being able to work on-set Marvel productions I have a unique perspective on the effort and artistry involved in creating immersive worlds on screen. Phullwanti resonates with me, especially as a Marathi film.
Phullwanti has done justice to PadmaVibhushan Babasaheb Purandare's novel. The relationships and struggles of Phullwanti, Shastribuva and his wife Laxmi were portrayed in a way that made them relatable and admirable. Their growth and the respect they earn by the film's conclusion is both moving and satisfying.
It's unfortunate that Phullwanti didn't receive the theatrical response it deserved, especially given its strong storytelling and production values. Limited promotion can really impact a film's visibility. Showcasing compelling cut scenes as a teaser on youtube, like Vaibhav Mangle's strong entry as a "Martand Bhairavacharya", could definitely help generate buzz and attract more viewers.
Reviving stories from the Maratha Empire and the Peshwa era can be a powerful way to celebrate and preserve Marathi culture. These historical narratives are rich with themes of valor, governance, and cultural achievements, which can inspire pride and connection to one's roots. It's important to keep these stories alive, as they can foster a sense of identity and belonging.
Prajakta Mali's ambition to adapt more novels into films could significantly contribute to bringing more stories from the Marathi culture to life. Her Phullwanti shows her talent and dedication, so it's wonderful to see her exploring new projects. Wishing her all the success in this endeavor!
