Bombay

Bombay, a landmark Tamil-language romantic drama, was released on March 10, 1995. Directed by the legendary Mani Ratnam, the movie explores love, faith, and communal harmony against the backdrop of a deeply divided society. Featuring a memorable soundtrack by A.R. Rahman, the film blends emotional depth with social commentary, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience. A poignant tale that addresses sensitive issues, Bombay continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Plot Summary

The story of Bombay revolves around Shekhar, a Hindu man, and Shaila Banu, a Muslim woman, who fall in love despite the opposition from their families and communities. Defying societal norms, they elope and start a new life in Mumbai. However, their love and unity are tested as communal tensions escalate, leading to devastating consequences. Through this heartfelt narrative, the movie sheds light on the importance of love, acceptance, and humanity in a world divided by religious and cultural barriers.

What’s Good?

Stellar Performances

The lead actors, Arvind Swamy and Manisha Koirala, deliver outstanding performances. Arvind’s portrayal of Shekhar’s idealism and Manisha’s depiction of Shaila’s vulnerability bring depth to their characters. Their chemistry is natural and convincing, anchoring the emotional core of the film.

Mani Ratnam’s Direction

Mani Ratnam masterfully balances a personal love story with larger socio-political themes. His nuanced storytelling and ability to portray complex emotions make Bombay a compelling watch. The film’s pacing, interwoven with moments of tenderness and tension, keeps viewers engaged throughout.

A.R. Rahman’s Music

The soundtrack of Bombay is iconic, featuring timeless tracks like Hamma Hamma and Kannalanae. Rahman’s compositions enhance the emotional resonance of the film, and his background score heightens the intensity of key scenes.

Cinematography and Visuals

Rajiv Menon’s cinematography captures the contrasting landscapes of rural Tamil Nadu and bustling Mumbai with finesse. His use of lighting and framing adds a poetic quality to the narrative. The riot sequences, in particular, are shot with raw realism, amplifying their impact.

Social Relevance

Bombay addresses themes of communal harmony and the destructive power of hatred. Its message of love and unity remains relevant, making the movie a thought-provoking experience.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Emotional Depth: The film’s ability to evoke powerful emotions is one of its greatest strengths.
• Timeless Music: A.R. Rahman’s compositions elevate the film to another level.
• Layered Storytelling: Mani Ratnam’s ability to blend a love story with socio-political issues is remarkable.
• Strong Performances: The lead actors and supporting cast deliver memorable performances.

Weaknesses

• Simplistic Resolution: The film’s resolution of complex communal issues might come across as overly optimistic to some viewers.
• Pacing: While the story is engaging, a few portions in the second half feel slightly stretched.

Target Audience

Bombay appeals to a wide audience, including fans of romantic dramas, socially relevant films, and Mani Ratnam’s work. The movie is a must-watch for those who appreciate meaningful cinema that combines emotion and intellect. However, viewers seeking light-hearted entertainment might find its serious themes overwhelming.

Box Office Details

Budget

Bombay was made on an estimated budget of INR 6 crore.

Worldwide Box Office Collection

The film was a massive commercial success, grossing over INR 25 crore worldwide. Its success marked a milestone in Indian cinema, with both critical and audience acclaim.

Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas)

Day 1: INR 2.5 crore (India) + INR 0.5 crore (Overseas)
Day 2: INR 2.8 crore (India) + INR 0.7 crore (Overseas)
Day 3: INR 3.0 crore (India) + INR 0.8 crore (Overseas)
Day 4: INR 2.7 crore (India) + INR 0.6 crore (Overseas)
Day 5: INR 2.5 crore (India) + INR 0.5 crore (Overseas)

The steady collections underscore the film’s strong word-of-mouth appeal and cultural impact.

Recommendation

Bombay is a cinematic masterpiece that seamlessly combines romance, drama, and social commentary. With stellar performances, unforgettable music, and a powerful message, it remains a timeless classic. Highly recommended for those who value thought-provoking and emotionally rich storytelling.

Genres:

Drama, Romance

Rating:

7.139/10

Cast:

Actor	Character
Arvind Swamy	Shekhar Narayanan Pillai
Manisha Koirala	Shaila Banu Pillai
Prakash Raj	Kumar
Nassar	Narayanan Pillai
Kitty	Basheer
Tinnu Anand	Sakthi Samaj Head
Master Harsha	Kabir Narayan
Master Hridhay	Kamal Basheer
Sonali Bendre	Dancer in the song ‘Humma Humma’
Nagendra Prasad	Dancer in the song ‘Humma Humma’
Rohini	Shaila Banu Pillai (voice)
M. V. Vasudeva Rao	Vasudeva Rao
Priya

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