Pink is a gripping social film, brilliantly directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury. The script is excellent, very well layered, and the film moves at a steady pace. Pink works as a taut thriller, and it is really a strong one at that - very intriguing and highly captivating. But the trick is that it's not just about the thrills because beneath the well-built tension lies a deeply involving social message on the important issues of sexual harassment, corruption, cultural and class differences, and above all, gender equality. The story culminates in a lengthy courtroom sequence which is stupendous and fascinating. This portion of the film takes away from everything else in it, and it is aided by consistently authentic, sharp dialogue, and an impressive attention to detail. That the setting is realistic only helps, ditto for the fantastic editing and cinematography, which enhance the film's credibility. This remains the film's prime asset which will have viewers on the edge of their seats.
The acting is roundly excellent and, needless to say, the film relies on the towering presence of Amitabh Bachchan, who is tremendous. There isn't a single false note in the way he plays this fantastic part - stylish, compassionate, heroic, and never less than a real character. Interestingly, he gives up top billing for the three leading ladies, so as to highlight their importance. Indeed, all three of them are convincing. Taapsee Pannu is the central of the three, and she is highly competent, but the other two, Kirti Kulhari and Andrea Tariang, actually give the film most of its raw energy and compassion. They are wonderful. Among the supporting actors, Piyush Mishra does exceedingly well as the amusing prosecutor, but the scene-stealer is doubtlessly Dhritiman Chatterjee, who is phenomenal as the fair and decent judge whose every expression speaks volumes. Other than being an important, issue-based film, Pink is a true cinematic experience well worth watching.
