HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: MOVIE REVIEW OF "PINK"

204 Minor History

Submitted by -

Priyansh Kanawat

UID: SM0123042

1rd Year & 2nd Semester

Submitted to -

Mrs. Upasna Devi

Faculty of 204 Minor History (Medieval India)

and

Mrs. Namrata Gogoi

Faculty of 204 Minor History (Ancient India)

National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam

 INTRODUCTION

"Pink," directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury and produced by Rashmi Sharma

Telefilms and Rising Sun Films and released in 2016, is a gripping courtroom drama that
delves into the sensitive issue of consent and the societal norms that govern the behavior of
women in India. Released in 2016, the film features powerful performances by Amitabh
Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu, Kirti Kulhari, and Andrea Tariang. "Pink" not only sheds light on
the harsh realities faced by women but also serves as a catalyst for discussions on gender
equality and the importance of respecting personal boundaries.

PLOT SUMMARY

The story begins with three young women—Minal Arora (Taapsee Pannu), Falak Ali
(Kirti Kulhari), and Andrea Tariang (Andrea Tariang)—returning from a rock concert. They
are visibly distressed and trying to move past a traumatic incident that occurred the previous
night. It is soon revealed that Minal had struck a man named Rajveer Singh (Angad Bedi)
with a bottle in self-defense after he and his friends tried to molest the women at a resort in
Surajkund. Rajveer, hailing from a powerful political family, uses his influence to file a
counter-case against Minal, accusing her of attempted murder. The tables turn when the three
women find themselves ensnared in a legal battle where their characters and morals are put
on trial. Enter Deepak Sehgal (Amitabh Bachchan), a retired lawyer suffering from bipolar
disorder, who decides to take up their case pro bono.
 THEMES AND ANALYSIS

CONSENT AND PATRIARCHY

"Pink" fundamentally revolves around the theme of consent. The film's tagline, "No
means no," encapsulates its core message. Through Minal's ordeal, the narrative challenges
the deep-seated patriarchal mindset that often justifies male entitlement and scrutinizes
female behavior. The courtroom scenes are intense and thought-provoking, especially when
Sehgal passionately argues that a woman's attire, behavior, or presence in a particular place
does not imply consent. His arguments underscore that consent is unequivocal and must be
respected under all circumstances. The film also explores how society's patriarchal values
shape perceptions of women's autonomy. It exposes the double standards where men are
excused for their misconduct, while women are judged and blamed for their own
victimization. The defense lawyer, Prashant Mehra (Piyush Mishra), uses the women's
modern lifestyle, including their choice of clothing and social activities, to question their
character, reflecting the societal tendency to blame victims rather than perpetrators.

FEMALE SOLIDARITY AND RESILIENCE

Another significant theme in "Pink" is the solidarity and resilience among women.
Despite the immense pressure and social ostracism, Minal, Falak, and Andrea stand by each
other, showcasing the strength of their friendship. This unity is crucial in their fight against
the oppressive forces attempting to subjugate them. The film portrays their journey not just as
a legal battle but as a fight for dignity and respect.

LEGAL AND JUDICIAL PROCESS

"Pink" also offers a critique of the legal and judicial process, highlighting how it can
be manipulated by those with power and influence. Rajveer's manipulation of the system to
frame Minal is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by ordinary citizens when pitted
against the elite. However, the film also reinstates faith in the judiciary through Sehgal's
relentless pursuit of justice, depicting how the legal system, despite its flaws, can still uphold
righteousness.
 PERFORMANCES

The performances in "Pink" are stellar across the board. Amitabh Bachchan, as the
seasoned lawyer Deepak Sehgal, delivers a commanding performance. His portrayal of
Sehgal is nuanced, capturing the character's complexity, from his professional acumen to his
personal struggles with bipolar disorder. Bachchan's baritone voice adds gravitas to the
courtroom monologues, making them impactful and memorable. Taapsee Pannu as Minal
Arora is the heart of the film. She effectively conveys Minal's vulnerability and courage,
making the audience empathize with her plight. Kirti Kulhari and Andrea Tariang also deliver
strong performances, bringing depth to their characters and portraying the emotional turmoil
they undergo. Angad Bedi as Rajveer Singh convincingly plays the antagonist, embodying
the arrogance and entitlement of his character. Piyush Mishra, as the defense lawyer, is
equally effective, portraying the insidious nature of victim-blaming with chilling accuracy.

DIRECTION AND CINEMATOGRAPHY

Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury's direction is taut and focused. He handles the sensitive
subject matter with the necessary gravitas, avoiding melodrama and keeping the narrative
grounded in reality. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold organically and
keeping the audience engaged throughout. The cinematography by Abhik Mukhopadhyay is
effective in creating the right mood for the film. The use of lighting and color palettes reflects
the emotional tone of the scenes, from the dimly lit sequences that convey the women's
despair to the brighter courtroom scenes that symbolize hope and justice.

The screenplay by Ritesh Shah is sharp and incisive. The narrative is well-structured,
seamlessly interweaving the courtroom drama with the personal struggles of the protagonists.
The dialogues are one of the film's strongest aspects, especially those delivered by
Bachchan's character. Lines like "No means no" resonate strongly and drive home the film's
message with clarity and force. The courtroom exchanges are well-written, capturing the
tension and drama inherent in legal battles. The cross-examinations are particularly
compelling, as they reveal the characters' vulnerabilities and strengths, keeping the audience
on the edge of their seats.
 MUSIC AND SOUNDTRACK

The music by Shantanu Moitra complements the film's tone perfectly. The
background score is subtle and unobtrusive, enhancing the emotional impact of the scenes
without overpowering them. The song "Kaari Kaari" stands out, its melancholic melody
reflecting the somber mood of the film. "Pink" has had a significant social impact since its
release. It sparked widespread discussions about consent, gender equality, and women's rights
in India. The film's portrayal of the legal system and the societal attitudes towards women
resonated with many, prompting a reevaluation of prevalent norms and behaviors. The
powerful performances and compelling narrative have made "Pink" a landmark film in Indian
cinema, contributing to the ongoing discourse on gender justice.

CONCLUSION

"Pink" is more than just a film; it is a social commentary and a call to action. It
challenges the audience to reflect on their own beliefs and attitudes towards women and their
autonomy. Through its powerful storytelling, brilliant performances, and incisive direction,
"Pink" successfully conveys the message that consent is absolute and non-negotiable. It is a
must-watch for anyone who believes in gender equality and the fight against injustice. In
conclusion, "Pink" stands out as a significant contribution to Indian cinema, addressing
crucial issues with sensitivity and conviction. Its impact extends beyond the screen, serving
as a catalyst for change in societal attitudes towards women and their rights. The film is a
testament to the power of cinema to influence and inspire, making it a landmark film that will
be remembered for years to come.