Among all movies this year, I was definitely looking forward to this one most. I wasn't let down. The movie is like a breath of fresh air. I don't think Bollywood has ever attempted to make such a movie with a dark theme and dark characters. The only other movie that is as dark is 'The Film'. Bas Ek Pal deals with with compassion, anger, love, hate, lust and jealousy. The characters are very human and you see that each of their decision has a drastic effect on what's coming next. The film also follows a steady pace and keeps you wondering what's gonna happen next. Once the movie ends, it stays in your mind!!! The movie is loosely based on Pedro Almodovar's Carne Tremula. Almodovar based his movie on Ruth Rendell's original novel 'Live Flesh'. I read the book and saw the movie and except for a few similarities, i found them both to be very different. And what makes Bas Ek Pal different is that it wasn't a carbon copy of either. It took some scenes from both the movie and the book. For example, the rape scene wasn't in the movie but it was in the book.
The movie can also be said to be a character sketch. Sanjay Suri, Juhi Chawla, Urmila Matondkar and Jimmy Shergill all play challenging roles. You've never seen them like this. You can identify with all the characters.
The cast and crew are all worthy of awards but again, Bollywood awards mostly go to the non-deserving.
This is probably Juhi's most challenging role to date and she played it completely natural. The character has several layers and only a brilliant actress like Juhi could do justice to this part.
Urmila's character was also one that required a fantastic actress and she did full justice to that role. I highly doubt whether anyone could have done better.
As for Jimmy Shergill and Sanjay Suri, they are becoming more versatile with each film. Both have done a great job and take big strides as actors maturing with every movie.
Music is definitely a double plus! They're still pleasant to hear and add to the situation in the film.
Onir's a remarkable director. He chose a bold theme and he chose the best actors (not the biggest stars) which makes this movie worth a watch. Whether you'll like it or not, I'd definitely say watching it would be worth your time.
I don't see why this movie was a flop. Well, bollywood does have difficulty recognizing good movies otherwise why would crap like Krishh and KANK be superhits? This film should win several awards, especially best director, best music and best performances!
