The duo of Anvita Dutt and Triptii Dimri are back again, this time with a psychological drama. Qala is an emotionally charged film that delves into the depths of grief and the power of human connection. Directed by the promising Anvita Dutt, who also helmed Bulbbul, this thought-provoking movie manages to leave a lasting impact with heartfelt performances and visually striking storytelling.
Qala, a haunting psychological drama set in the 1930s and 40s, takes us on a captivating journey through the life of a young girl from Himachal. With a mesmerizing musical backdrop, the film explores her aspirations to live up to the legacy of her renowned family of classical singers. Qala yearns for her mother’s approval and validation, resorting to questionable methods to fulfill her dreams. However, this pursuit comes at a steep cost, leaving her haunted and deeply traumatized by her past experiences. The film’s gradual build-up eventually reaches a powerful climax, evoking intense emotions and leaving the audience speechless.
As the narrative unfolds, the movie seamlessly weaves between past and present, exploring themes of regret, anger, love, and jealousy. The film delves deep into the complex and twisted mother-daughter relationship, unfolding like an emotionally charged horror tale. Anvitaa Dutt’s storytelling and writing prowess shine through in her ability to create a vivid world and present the story from alternating perspectives.
Music and cinematography are Qala’s biggest strength
The soulful classical music by Amit Trivedi serves as the heart of the film, driving the story forward. The songs, beautifully penned by Amitabh Bhattacharya, Kausar Munir, Swanand Kirkire, and Varun Grover, add depth and emotion to the film. The talented singers, Sireesha Bhagavatula and Shahid Mallya, deliver exceptional performances, breathing life into the lead characters. While Ghodey Pe Sawaar was extremely good, it is Shauq that stands out for me.
The skillful cinematography in Qala adds an intriguing element to various scenes, keeping the audience engaged. The film beautifully visualizes both Qala’s childhood home in the mountains as well her adult life in Kolkata, presenting striking set designs, costumes, and a captivating color palette. The settings work well in accordance with the emotions being expressed. While the pacing may feel slow at times, the inner turmoil and pain of the characters find expression even in moments of silence.
The film beautifully portrays psychological and emotional trauma
The performances in Qala are exceptional, with each actor breathing life into their characters with genuine emotion and vulnerability. They transport us into the 1940s, making us feel for the characters. Triptii Dimri shines as Qala, portraying a wide range of emotions, continuing to impress everyone after Bulbbul. Swastika Mukherjee nails her role, perfectly balancing restraint and power in her portrayal. As an ardent Irrfan fan, it was emotional to see Babil Khan debut, who brought a refreshing earnestness to his performance.
Qala delves into the psychological and emotional toll of grief, exploring how different individuals cope with tragedy. This sensitive portrayal provokes introspection and meaningful conversations about the human condition, making the film a thought-provoking experience. However, the movie is not without its flaws. The pacing of the film can be uneven, with some scenes feeling drawn out while others rush through pivotal moments. This occasionally disrupts the narrative flow, leaving certain plot points underdeveloped or unresolved. Although this might be an intentional choice to reflect the protagonist’s internal struggles, it hampers the film’s coherence.
In conclusion, Qala is a poignant and visually striking film that successfully portrays the complexities of grief and the transformative power of human connection. While it may stumble in pacing and occasionally relies on familiar storytelling tropes, it remains a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience. Qala stands as a testament to the future of cinema, leaving a lasting impact on its viewers.
