Hu Tu Tu

Hu Tu Tu, a 1999 Indian political drama film, directed by Gulzar, goes above and beyond the typical storytelling conventions to provide penetrating insight into the grim realities of the political landscape in India. The film’s ensemble cast is anchored by pivotal performances from Nana Patekar, Suniel Shetty, and Tabu, who skillfully portray multidimensional characters intertwined in a web of political intrigue, corruption, crimes, and redemption.

The film opens with a seemingly innocuous kidnapping. Aditi (Tabu), who's also the film’s narrator, and her confederate, Aditya (Suniel Shetty), kidnap the politically influential Bhau (Nana Patekar). It's quickly revealed that their quest isn't one of random criminal act but a deeply personal crusade to retrieve a viciously stolen life.

Aditi is the daughter of Malti Barve (Suhasini Muley), a highly esteemed political leader who was once steadfast in her moral compass but has fallen from grace due to the intoxicating allure of power. On the other hand, Aditya is the son of social activist Hari (Kulbhushan Kharbanda), Malti’s former love interest, whose relentless idealism and fight against corruption led to a devastating turn of events. Despite their parents’ contrasting life choices, Aditi and Aditya find common ground in their shared desire to dismantle the corruption camouflaged under the garb of politics, and it is this shared ambition that sparks their complex mission.

As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Bhau’s abduction merely serves as the catalyst for a more profound exploration of the corrosive nature of political corruption and its impact on personal relationships. Nana Patekar gives a stellar performance as Bhau—the embodiment of a morally ambiguous politician corrupted beyond recognition, yet still clinging onto threads of humanity.

The inherent humanism of director Gulzar’s storytelling shines through in Hu Tu Tu. Without resorting to simplistic representations, he presents the complexities of human nature, dancing on the lines of ethical ambiguities. The film subtly uncovers the depth of the characters’ desires, their conflicts, and the paths they undertake, painting a raw picture of the human consequences of political deceit.

The recurring motif of the traditional children’s game – Hu Tu Tu, serves as a metaphoric representation of the corrupt system, wherein each player is blindfolded, scrambling to catch others – encapsulating the cyclical nature of corruption in the political world. From the corruption-ridden politics to the hypocrisy of the political players and their broken moral compass, this film provides a deep dive into the unethical practices prevalent in politics.

The film is further bolstered by a compelling musical score by Vishal Bhardwaj, which weaves into the narrative seamlessly. Songs like "Chhai Chhappa Chhai" and "Ghappee Ghappee," although melodic, carry an undertone of grim reality that aids in driving home the film’s themes.

In a movie era largely dominated by romantic narratives, Hu Tu Tu stands out for its gritty realism and powerful performances. The characters in this film aren't merely fictional constructs but real, flawed individuals whose actions are intertwined with the larger societal structure they inhabit. This authenticity of character portrayal enriches the overall narrative, ensuring that the audience is both engrossed and enlightened.

Hu Tu Tu serves as both a critique of the political system and a study of the intricate ties that bind us together, even in our most desperate times. It is a complex exploration of political corruption and its human cost, one that leaves viewers with food for serious thought. Beyond its suspenseful drama and unexpected plot twists, the core of Hu Tu Tu lies in its message: a powerful commentary on the importance of integrity and decency in a world often marred by greed and deceit. A must-watch for anyone interested in cinema that challenges and informs.