Madhur Bhandarkar. Traffic signal. Intelligent Director. Interesting movie?

A different approach with a focus on hard-hitting issues has always characterized Madhur Bhandarkar’s films ranging from the sordid life of bar girls in Chandni Bar to the unsavory shenanigans of the glitterati in page 3.

      Traffic Signal is a close look at the life of people whose lives revolve around a traffic signal. Seriously!! This movie is about beggars, eunuchs, small-time goons, prostitutes, destitute children whose economy revolves around the vehicles that stop for moments at a traffic signal.

It is revealing look at the relationship of need, desire and dependency between politicians, mafia and the street-dwellers.

      The movie is a collage of events following a bunch of characters. Silsila (Kunal Khemu) is a street-smart young man who manages the various businesses at the signal, he actually hosts team meetings with the beggars, newspaper vendors etc. Kunal Khemu is excellent as a cocky Silsila who slowly matures as the film events unravel.

Neetu Chandra, who plays his love interest, is charming. Konkana Sen Sharma plays a prostitute with verve and captures the essence of this difficult role. The track of her friendship with Ranvir Shorey is very poignant. He essays the role of an educated drug addict who cons passers-by with élan and pathos. All the supporting actors perform well including the little boy who is left orphaned by the Tsunami.

      The story is gritty and unapologetic, the acting is excellent and the overall feel of the movie is realistic. It is a revealing look at people we barely notice and ignore in the course of our busy day.  This movie is a must-watch! I can promise you will never look at a traffic signal the same way again!

|