Kothanodi

An Assamese production, 'Kothanodi' is composed of four unique stories that are primarily incited by local folktales that symbolize the multifaceted actualities about motherhood. A disturbing, thought-provoking narration; that is bound to shock and captivate, all at the same time.

I can't remember the last time I was at such unease! This specific execution may not be heeded as an endeavor full of perfection, but what it accomplishes is no less than anything exemplary. Bhaskar Hazarika, the director; deliberately propelled the audience towards a long-lasting journey, a sort of roller coaster ride, that is fraught with a wide variety of emotions.

The film opens on a relatively modest note. Regardless, as we progress further down the storyline, things gradually come to be more serious. And by the third act, it had become outrageous to a certain degree. I would go as far as to say, some of the stuff looked pretty absurd and bizarre. But I love, how they dealt with all kinds of weird in such a reasonable and sophisticated manner.

A large chunk of the accolades must go to the entire cast for the same reasons. What an incredible set of acts we have got in here. I want to mention two performers, in particular; Zerifa Wahid who played the Stepmother, and Kasvi Sarma who consequently played the part of her stepdaughter.

Truth be told, their Performances broke me down, shattered my heart into pieces; for different reasons of course! It would be so hard for me to forget their sides of the story; possibly one of the most disturbing tales I have ever had to witness.

Now, let me be very clear, it would not be everyone's cup of tea; please keep that in mind. It's absolutely a no-go for the faint-hearted as well! I would suggest you proceed with much caution, as this film will certainly make you feel overwhelmed in one way or another.

One word that can describe this film is - CHILLING. Kothanodi is the story of 4 mothers, each facing demons of her own. 4 different BGM are used for 4 stories and every one of them is scary. You may feel the stories are weird but I'm sure you can't stop the film in between. Loved all the actors specially Zerifa Wahid & Urmila Mahanta.

While watching the film I was thinking that the stories were something like 'Thakumar Jhuli' (Bengali folk tales). So, after finishing the film I search for it & came to know these stories are really of 'Thakumar Jhuli' but in Assam region, it is called 'Burhi Aair Sadhu.' It's really good to see films based on folk tales. Because nowadays it's very rare. So, I'll request everyone to watch this film, I think many have seen it already.

Based on folk tales, this Assamese film weaves four stories together in an interesting mix of whimsy and depth. Each story is bizarre and thought provoking at the same time. Some are situated close to each other geographically and appear to trod the same tracts of land, but are in fact stories all alone. Some end predictably following long stretches of jaw- drop surprise while others go the opposite way.

A woman is followed by a fruit, an evil stepmother takes advantage of her husband's absence, a man captures a python so as to marry it off to his daughter and a man keeps burying his newborn babies. That's about as basic a premise as it is. Shot beautifully, Kothanodi soars wildly and is an absolute joy to watch. It reminded me of my childhood which was spent in the company of Jataka Tales and the Panchatantra. Much recommended.

Last movie (Kwaidan) that i watched on the subject of folktales was based on Japanese lores, which was directed by Masaki Kobayashi, director of The Human Condition(trilogy) and Harakiri. And now it was Kothanodi, directed by Bhaskar Hazarika who directed another unconventional masterpiece Aamis. Kothanodi is well crafted, directed,acted, with haunting BGM and haunting atmosphere with unorthodox stories . Looking forward to watch more movies from this director.

A very interesting movie with a really good storyline. I really like the combination of the stories in the movie! A very creative output!