Dostojee

It will definitely touch your heart and force you to think about things, Life. I enjoy every tiny details of the film, the story, the screenplay, the innocence, the casting, the locations, frames just too good. It should definitely reach more audience. I am sure if you watch the film you gonna love it and you will definitely remember this.

Prasun is one of my childhood friend and probably the 1st friend in my entire life. So I am really proud of him. I am sure he will make more such good films.

I was fortunate enough to be there at the premier show in Nandan, Kolkata. Many of our friends were there. We were so happy. :)

Simplicity of binding the incidents in a flow is the strength of the film. Two boys of different communities in a disturbing political background live their own life in their own style and find out the truth of happiness. Their friendship becomes immortal when the little boy learns to feel the presence of the lost friend (Dostoji) within his soul, sudden grown attachment with books and nature. Death makes the friendship silent,stronger and deeper Dostoji is a word itself an expression of sweetness and respect. The director used some strong characters with mininum dialogues as extraordinary brushes to draw some important strokes to complete the picture , such as a nomad, sister of a boy, a cycle repair shop. Last but not the least extraordinary acting of two boys spellbound us.

The house of both friends Muslim Saifqul and Hindu Palash is right on the border. Both call each other as "Dostoji". Their daily routine is going to school together, laughing, playing, jumping etc. Both are happy with most of the habits and dimensions of childhood. Both of them have a cordial relationship in their families From the beginning till the first half, the story is in its continuous pace. But the second half of the film, that is, after the death of Palash , the story has moved from its reality to a skewed pace.

The demolition of the mosque took place, in December, when the weather is cold while the scene outside the shop shows rain when the news of Babri Masjid demolition is heard on the radio, at a tea shop. Lack of pace in film.

The story telling, landscape, acting, cinematography all are too good. The purity of two little boys friendship touched my heart, it shows how TRUE friendship can overcome all the challenges in the society with ease. The director portrayed the movie so nicely as if I am witnessing a painter is painting with beautiful colours. The movie has all such elements what rural bengal has, but it never bored me, rather it took me to my childhood age. I enjoyed each and every moment of two boys school life, their daily activities. When adults were fighting with their religious identities, two protagonist character were busy to built a pure relationship of two friends. This is the inner beauty of the movie. I recommend all adults to watch this movie along with their kids.

**Dostojee: A Heartfelt Ode to Innocence and Friendship** ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

In the realm of Bengali cinema, "Dostojee" emerges as a poignant narrative that captures the essence of childhood and the unyielding spirit of friendship. Directed by Prasun Chatterjee, this film is set in the turbulent times of the early 1990s, against the backdrop of the Babri Mosque demolition, and tells the story of two young boys, Palash and Safikul, whose friendship is put to the test amidst the rising communal tensions.

The film is a masterful blend of social realism and cinematic beauty, showcasing the innocence of growing up years and positing that human bonds are above everything. The director's vision is clear as he paints a portrait of a village periled by religious hatred and unrest, yet the story remains focused on the two protagonists who remain untouched by the chaos around them.

"Dostojee" is not just a film; it's a powerful vignette of loss and the resilience of human connections. The performances by the child actors, Asik Shaikh and Arif Shaikh, are commendable, bringing a depth of emotion and authenticity to their roles. Their portrayal of Palash and Safikul is so convincing that it transcends the screen and tugs at the heartstrings of the audience.

The cinematography by Tuhin Biswas deserves a special mention for its use of natural lighting and color temperatures that amplify the starkness of the rural scenery, creating visuals that are both striking and deeply evocative. The film's visual language, while paying homage to the works of masters like Buddhadeb Dasgupta, stands on its own, owning its narrative and aesthetic with confidence.

Jayati Chakraborty's performance is another highlight of the film. Her portrayal of a mother's grief is shot with such perfection that it leaves a lasting impact on the viewer. The scene where she breaks down over a photograph of her son is particularly powerful and showcases the emotional gravity of the film.

The brilliance of "Dostojee" lies in its simplicity and its ability to convey profound messages without being preachy. It does not buy too much into the arthouse genre, which helps it find its dramatic voice and connect with a wider audience. The film handles tragedy with a delicate touch, and the last 40 minutes are filled with pathos, leaving the audience moved.

Prasun Chatterjee's "Dostojee" is a lyrical and moving tale of friendship that is rooted in contemporary reality yet determined to be hopeful. It is a film that deserves a full five-star rating for its honest depiction of a friendship that withstands the test of time and prejudice. It is a cinematic masterpiece that will leave you moved and reflective long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, "Dostojee" is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates films that are not only entertaining but also intellectually rich and emotionally resonant. It is a testament to the power of cinema to bridge divides and celebrate the universal language of friendship. With its compelling narrative, exceptional performances, and stunning visuals, "Dostojee" earns its place as a five-star film and a jewel in the crown of Bengali cinema.