Aligarh

Based on true events, Aligarh is an Indian drama film directed by Hansal Mehta and written by Apurva Asrani. This poignant and hard-hitting portrayal features outstanding performances by Manoj Bajpayee, Rajkummar Rao, and Ashish Vidyarthi in pivotal roles. The movie is set in the city of Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. It was released in 2015 and is named after the city where the events happened.

The film centers on the life of Dr. Shrinivas Ramchandra Siras, a professor and the Head of the Classical Modern Indian Languages Faculty at the renowned Aligarh Muslim University. Portraying the titular character is accomplished actor Manoj Bajpayee, known for his unconventional roles and nuanced performances. His portrayal of Siras is one of subtle nuances and profound emotional depth, capturing the complexity of a man grappling with personal and professional upheaval.

The narrative delves into the professor's life after he is suspended from his job on charges of homosexuality, which the 21st-century world might regard as a personal matter. But in a conservative society, this revelation becomes a scandal that engulfs his life, both within the university community and beyond. This controversial event is what thrusts Siras unwillingly into the harsh glare of public scrutiny.

Enter Deepu Sebastian, a young journalist with an open heart and mind, played by the talented Rajkummar Rao. When he discovers the disturbing and unjust circumstances that have led to the professor's suspension, he decides to help him, driven by equal parts curiosity, empathy, and outrage at the glaring violation of Siras's privacy.

Aligarh examines societal attitudes towards homosexuality and the subsequent isolations and struggles that revolve around it. It also presents an introspective exploration of loneliness and the personal ramifications of living in a society that refuses to acknowledge or accept your true identity.

Rajkummar Rao's character, journalist Deepu Sebastian, works as the perfect foil to Manoj Bajpayee's character. As a journalist, Deepu strives to uncover the truth, throwing light on the societal stereotypes and legal inconsistencies that have resulted in the professor's plight.

Ashish Vidyarthi, a revered and versatile actor, portraying a legal counsel, adds another dimension to the film, making it even more spellbinding to watch. His performances usually leaving an impacting and long-lasting resonance with audiences.

Distinctively, the film refrains from being frantic or overly dramatized in its storytelling. Hansal Mehta uses a responsible, matured, and subtle approach to the narrative. Aligarh is scored with melancholic undertones that perfectly suit the tone and mood of the narrative, making it a thoughtful cinematic tour de force.

This film invites viewers into a discussion on homosexuality as a exploration of one's own truth, a human right rather than an 'issue'. The narrative demonstrates the deeply ingrained homophobia and prejudice that is prevalent in Indian society, yet also manages to convey a sense of hope.

The screenplay is nuanced and detailed, with a wonderful balance between dialogue and visual storytelling. Each scene is carefully constructed to engage the audience while simultaneously provoking thought and evoking empathy for the protagonist's predicaments. The cinematography and direction offer an authentic and immersive view of the city of Aligarh, with its unique culture and societal norms.

Aligarh makes a powerful point and delivers a poignant message, leaving you with a bracing perspective on human rights, while encouraging conversation about sexuality and societal norms. The film is a must-watch for its commendable narrative, the touching performances by the actors, and the vital social message it carries. The film's storytelling brilliance puts it in the annals of cinema as a timeless, modern-day classic with much to ponder upon.