Interview

Interview is an influential Indian movie released in 1971, directed by iconic Bengali filmmaker Mrinal Sen. The film stars celebrated actors such as Karuna Bannerjee, Shekhar Chatterjee, and Ranjit Mallick, who provide the tapestry for Sen to weave his characteristic social commentary and satirical criticisms.

The plot of the movie Interview is a commentary on the socio-political conditions of the time, reflecting the prevalent social and economic hierarchies and unmasking the farcical nature of certain socio-economic norms. The narrative follows a young man named Ranjit Mallick who has been promised a job, contingent on him appearing for the subsequent interview in a western-style suit. The seemingly harmless complication of buying a suit quickly spirals into a Kafkaesque ordeal, posing a reflective look at the societal norms of the time.

Ranjit Mallick, a respected figure in the Bengal film industry, plays the lead role with a commendable eye for detail. His character is that of an educated, unemployed man who becomes entwined in his pursuit for a suit - a symbol of his potential economic stability. He brilliantly portrays the youth's hopes and aspirations of the time period, encompassing their anxiety, struggle, and frustration with the status quo.

Karuna Bannerjee, also known for her role in Satyajit Ray's Pather Panchali, plays a supporting role, portraying the perseverance and despair intrinsic to navigating through a harsh socio-economic climate. She effortlessly embodies the struggles faced by the common people of India, bringing a touch of authenticity and grace to her character. Shekhar Chatterjee adds his distinguished flair to the ensemble by amplifying the absurd premise of the film through his character.

Set in Kolkata (then Calcutta), the cityscape is as much a character in the film as are the actors themselves. Sen very eloquently takes us through a city torn between rapid westernisation and extreme poverty. The juxtaposition of grand colonial buildings and chaotic slums creates a sense of irony and embody the stark socio-economic divide plaguing the society. Visual dichotomies created by Sen provide a subtler narrative layer that enhances the underlying themes of class warfare and societal exclusivity.

The camera work in Interview is a perfect reflection of Mrinal Sen's innovative and often experimental style, bringing out the inner turmoil of the characters as they navigate their complex world. The frequent use of close-ups, montage sequences, and long takes allows the viewer to explore the cinematic space and helps to portray the internal consciousness of the characters.

The story takes on an allegorical nature through its narrative progression, symbolizing the corruption, bureaucracy, and stringent societal structures determined by post-colonial elite to maintain their power. An essential theme that Sen drives in his film is the concept of absurdity, masterfully depicted through the protagonist's relentless pursuit of acquiring a suit.

As a satire, the movie invites the viewer to question the norms that hold the society hostage. Sen's biting commentary on the fascination with and imitation of western culture - a theme prevalent in post-colonial societies - serves as a critique of societal conformity and the price one pays for it.

The film's soundtrack, composed by established film composer Vijay Raghav Rao, expertly complements the drama, intensifying the emotions and supplementing the storytelling. The precise balance between music, performances, imagery, and narrative themes makes Interview a holistic cinematic experience.

Interview is a thoughtful and satirical exploration of the frustrating socio-economic complexities faced by the common people during the post-colonial era. It questions the illusions of economic prosperity and societal progress and provides a unique critique of the systemic constraints that shape social identities. It's worthy of watching for those interested in political and socially conscious cinema. Its themes, storytelling, and innovative camera work are a testament to Mrinal Sen's prowess as a filmmaker and his commitment to portraying the realities of his society from a distinctly humanist and critical perspective.