Having been a huge fan of IFFR and the type of films that come out of what I would call their school, Nasir was definitely one of the films i was waiting to watch for more than one reasons. And with the news of it competing for the prestigious tiger award. Even before I watched the film I had already told Arun that this film is a winner for me. This film for sure lived up to my expectations or may be even more.
The topic which Nasir speaks about is not something we are not aware of. Arun treats the subject just like its deliberately ignored by the majority which makes the film more special and genuine. You can sugar coat the events but can't deny the truth and this film stands out for the same reason. I have always felt that this type of treatment of the character is the hardest thing to do which can go wrong very easily. But Arun had done an amazing job in slowly developing the character and once you are hooked. Even though the film is full of mundane events happening around a person the horror of the reality you already know hits you hard not only in the end but there is always a tension which constantly keeps reminding you of what will come. In between the tension the film creates there is so much humor as well. The humour reminded me of Tsai Ming-liang telling he never intends to make it look funny but it ends up like that for few. The same is applicable to Nasir as well. Its again very simple things we see or listen to very often but it doesn't fail to deliver the humor. The film raises many important questions but I would still like to know which shirt the couple purchased in the shop where Nasir works.
The use of sound in the film was praised my none other than Pedro Costa, the master himself was impressed. So its definitely one of the best things of the film.
Nasir starts with azaan and end with bharat Mata ki jai. By the end you get to decide which side you wish to stand with and the film never tries to force this feeling but let's you decide.
I hope this film gets a theatrical release because I have a feeling that even with a festival tag, this might work for many people. But will it get a free pass from the censor board is again another question which only time will answer.
Special thanks to Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival with Star for making this film available.
