Love, passion, and cinema are intricately woven together in this romantic drama. Set in a small town in India during the early 2010s, Milan Talkies brings to life the charm of old-school cinema, romance, and the trials of pursuing both. The film stars Ali Fazal and Shraddha Srinath, supported by a cast of lively characters who shape the story. Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, known for his gritty storytelling, the movie takes a more personal and romantic route while preserving the essence of small-town life. It belongs to the romance-drama genre, with the world of cinema and filmmaking being the backdrop for much of the plot.
The film revolves around Annu, a young and aspiring filmmaker, whose life is as vibrant as the cinema hall he works at. Annu spends his days creating low-budget films and dreaming of making it big in the industry. His life takes a sudden turn when he meets Maithili, a strong-willed woman who becomes the object of his affections. As their love story blossoms amidst the backdrop of the film world, they encounter obstacles typical of small-town India: familial pressures, societal expectations, and the looming threat of tradition. Their journey is filled with challenges, including disapproving parents, but their shared passion for cinema fuels their dreams, pushing them to find a way to be together. The plot slowly reveals how the couple navigates the many hurdles thrown their way, while their love for films remains a constant source of inspiration.
One of the film’s standout aspects is Ali’s portrayal of Annu. Known for his versatile acting, Ali steps into the shoes of a passionate and somewhat rebellious filmmaker with ease. His performance feels genuine, particularly in the scenes where Annu is torn between his love for Maithili and his desire to make a name for himself in the film industry. Ali brings a sense of vulnerability to his character, making the audience root for him despite his flaws. His chemistry with Shraddha is one of the highlights of the film. Shraddha, on the other hand, plays Maithili with conviction, portraying her as both strong and tender. Her character’s resilience is visible in every scene, and Shraddha manages to balance Maithili’s love for Annu with the expectations she faces from her family. Together, they create an engaging dynamic that keeps the viewer invested in their love story.
The direction by Tigmanshu deserves praise for the way he captures the small-town ethos, bringing out the nuances of a world where cinema is not just entertainment but a way of life. His use of locations, particularly the old cinema halls and the rustic backdrop of Uttar Pradesh, adds a layer of authenticity to the film. The setting is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the narrative, shaping the characters’ lives and decisions. The pacing of the movie, however, could have been tighter. There are moments where the story lags, particularly in the second half, where the focus shifts away from the central romance to the larger societal issues, diluting the emotional impact of the film.
Cinematography by Hari Nair captures the raw beauty of small-town India. The frames are filled with vibrant colors and the earthy tones of rural life, and the contrast between the chaos of the streets and the calmness of the cinema halls is visually appealing. One particular sequence that stands out is the scene where Annu films a low-budget action sequence, which serves as a meta-commentary on the struggles of independent filmmakers. The lighting and angles used in this scene highlight the gritty reality of the world Annu inhabits, while also paying homage to the magic of filmmaking.
Music plays an important role in Milan Talkies, with Sajid-Wajid providing a soundtrack that complements the film’s emotional core. The songs are a mix of soulful romantic tracks and upbeat numbers, which reflect the changing moods of the narrative. The track “Bakaiti” stands out for its playful energy, while “Shart” beautifully captures the emotional tension between Annu and Maithili. The background score, while not overly dramatic, subtly enhances the emotional beats of the film without overpowering the narrative. The songs blend seamlessly into the story, making them an essential part of the cinematic experience.
The film’s editing could have been sharper. Certain scenes, especially those dealing with the secondary characters and subplots, feel stretched and unnecessary. While these scenes are meant to add depth to the world of Milan Talkies, they often take away from the central love story. The film’s length could have been reduced to keep the focus on Annu and Maithili’s relationship. Additionally, some of the dialogue, though natural and fitting the small-town setting, feels repetitive, especially in moments where the characters’ motivations are already clear.
Costume design, on the other hand, is spot-on. The characters are dressed in a way that reflects their backgrounds and personalities. Annu’s casual, often mismatched outfits highlight his carefree attitude and bohemian lifestyle, while Maithili’s simple yet elegant wardrobe reflects her grounded nature and the cultural expectations placed upon her. The attention to detail in the costumes helps bring the characters and their world to life.
In terms of special effects, the film doesn’t rely heavily on them, which works in its favor. The few effects used, primarily in the film-within-a-film sequences, add a humorous touch and are intentionally low-budget to mirror Annu’s amateur filmmaking style. These sequences offer a glimpse into the challenges faced by aspiring filmmakers in small towns, adding a layer of realism to the narrative.
Overall, Milan Talkies is a heartfelt tribute to the world of cinema and the dreams it inspires. While it may not be groundbreaking in terms of storytelling, it offers a charming and nostalgic look at the power of love and films in shaping one’s destiny. The performances by Ali and Shraddha are commendable, and the film’s setting provides a refreshing break from the usual urban romances. However, the pacing issues and the sometimes disjointed narrative prevent it from reaching its full potential.
For those who enjoy romantic dramas with a strong dose of nostalgia and a love for old-school cinema, this film is worth a watch. It may not leave a lasting impact, but it offers a sincere and entertaining experience that will appeal to anyone who has ever dreamed of making it big in the world of films.
