3 Storeys

3 Storeys is a thought-provoking and captivating drama film released in 2018. Directed by Arjun Mukerjee and produced by Priya Sreedharan, Ritesh Sidhwani, and Farhan Akhtar, the movie presents an intricate tale of dark secrets and hidden desires within the walls of a three-story Mumbai apartment building. Known for their reputations in the industry, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani bring a refreshing perspective, evident through the unique storytelling method used in the movie.

A three-segment anthology, the film features noteworthy performances by actors such as Aisha Ahmed, Tarun Anand, and Richa Chadha amongst others. Each segment is an individual human drama, entwined with the other stories, much like the lives of actual apartment dwellers. The film's bold and multi-layered narrative highlights various fragments of life, shifting between frailty, passion, remorse, and redemption.

One of the film’s major selling points is its innovative storytelling style. The narrative structure does a remarkable job of hooking the audience right from the onset. The stories in the Mumbai chawl unravel themselves over the course of a single day as the camera sways between multiple characters across each of the three floors.

The life and interactions of the residents become the heart of the movie. While all the characters in the film are far from perfect, they are all very realistic and relatable. Their stories represent a larger microcosm of society - there could be millions of such tales behind countless doors in a bustling city.

Aisha Ahmed plays a vital role as her character adds a good amount of depth to the narrative. Her sensitive portrayal of a layered character captivates the audience, effectively adding intrigue. As a young woman in love, her narrative threads romance into the otherwise dramatic undertone of the movie.

Tarun Anand delivers an impressive performance, bringing his character to life with his subtle nuances. Seeing him on screen is a delight for the audience, as his story develops intriguingly, consistently maintaining interest through the film. He plays a man walking the tightrope of his past and present, teetering between remembrances and reality, his character is an intriguing constituent of the movie.

Richa Chadha plays a role integral to the storyline, enmeshed in the various narratives churning across the three stories. Her character is enigmatic and fascinating – a linchpin linking the happenings on various floors of the apartment. Her character introduces elements of mystery and suspense that compel viewers to unravel the underlying truth behind the facades.

The raw Mumbai charm and aesthetics are felt in every scene, and Arjun Mukerjee, the director, capably uses it as a backdrop to accentuate the emotional conflict. Known for his exceptional visual style, Mukerjee ensures the cinematography is integral to the storytelling, the actual essence of the movie. Every scene in 3 Storeys is shot with precision, which greatly adds to its overall impact.

Powerful screenwriting is another notable aspect of the film. The script is sophisticated and layered, tending to steer away from conventional trends of Indian cinema. It is the well-knit plot that solidifies the individuality of the movie, making it a refreshing and distinctive viewing experience. With its strong, character-driven narrative, intertwined plotlines, and impressive acting, it stands out from the crowd.

In conclusion, 3 Storeys is a well-directed anthology film that stands as an impressive testament to the growing wave of progressive cinema in India. Distinct, riveting, and characteristically gripping, the film dives deep into the complexities of urban life, presenting stories of love, loss, and longing with an underplayed intensity. Despite the sombre mood of the movie, the ultimate takeaway manages to be bitter-sweet, hope-laden and thought-provoking.