Movies Review :- Manto

All ordinary or extraordinary fictions are a sum of author's life experiences when mixed with desires, prejudices, value systems and preferences. No writer is born with content or intent. Story of Manto is the story of a writer who was idealised by some and damned by many. He was a rare breed who did not sugarcoat his writings either in fear or for society's acceptance. Having read lot of Manto, I can understand that why some people can not digest his writings. There is sensationalism but it is not forced. His choice of words is also crude.


Coming to the movie, it made us wait a long long time. I remember seeing its first teaser around 2 years back, unfortunately the scene shown in teaser was not present in the movie. as far as acting performances are concerned, Nawazuddin Siddiquie disappointed me. The performance was above average but in such an iconic role we would have loved to see him getting more involved. His urdu looked forced and I felt there was some lack of practice.

Other actors were below average. Rajshree Deshpande who played Ismat Chugtai did not do justice to one of the role of most dynamic and courageous female writer.

Song tracks were not great. Direction and editing were also average.

Cinematography was very good and probably the only face saver. Full marks to Kartik Vijay.

Star Ratings : 2/5

Verdict : These type of movies aren't meant for general audience. Heavy urdu words and reference to Manto and Ismat would not be bearable if you have not read both of them. Even Manto fans may avoid the movie. Let us hope someday the legendary writer would get a good movie that he rightly deserves.