Tottaa Pataaka Item Maal

"Tottaa Pataaka Item Maal" is a 2019 Indian film that breaks conventional norms with its bold narrative, raw performances and a captivating storyline that advocates for women's rights and dignity. This extraordinary movie is directed by Aditya Kripalani and stars Shalini Vatsa, Chitrangada Satarupa and Sonal Joshi, among others, portraying the lead roles.

Set against the densely populated backdrop of New Delhi, the film focuses on the harsh reality of eve-teasing and sexual harassment rampant in the city, plunging deep into the societal aspects of matriarchy and patriarchy. The story deals with the lives of four diverse women residing in the city – a burqa-clad college girl, a young North-East Indian woman working in a spa, an aged widow living in a farmhouse, and a singer single mother.

Each character in their unique setting provides an insight into the various problems faced by women. The movie shows how these women, belonging to different walks of life with their unique personality and idiosyncrasies, unite together after a happening incident. They struggle with their own trauma, but the unifying thread that binds them is the shared experience of sexual harassment and desire for retribution—showing the resilience of the oppressed in an unjust society.

Shalini Vatsa enacts the role of a strong widow woman, giving a captivating performance that showcases her incredible acting talents. Satarupa, on the other hand, portrays a college girl with a layered performance reflecting the character's courage and vulnerability, beautifully. Sonal Joshi presents the perfect embodiment of an independent, working-class single mother, telling a tale of struggle and survival.

The movie is narratively unconventional. It’s a powerful critique of the systemic sexism entrenched in our society and a vibrant protest against the violation of women's rights. The film looks at how the life of a woman isn't measured by the yardstick of a man’s universe, but has its own distinct dimensions of experiences and struggles, making it a unique narrative in the landscape of Indian cinema.

Moreover, "Tottaa Pataaka Item Maal" is distinctive in its cinematography. The director uses the camera as a vessel to convey the intense emotions, the heightened fear, and the eventual acceptance of the characters' realities. The cluttered streets of Delhi, the serenity of a farmhouse, and the lively cityscape, in all their rawness, are brought to life by the movie's evocative cinematography.

The director, Kripalani, does a commendable job of peeling back layers upon layers of societal norms and imposed ‘decency,’ unveiling the grim reality of patriarchal India. The film's dark tone provides a stark portrait of harassment and symbolic revolt. It presents a sharp critique of societal gaze and gender dynamics, offering an unconventional perspective on how women can turn the tables on oppressors.

Given the subject, the film remains take-no-prisoners from beginning to end. Its powerful storytelling matches with an equally intensive sound design. The title itself reflects an indirect remark on objectification, taking a critical stance against the commodification of women's bodies. The use of metaphor and symbolism is immaculate, helping to drive home the narrative's core themes.

In conclusion, "Tottaa Pataaka Item Maal" is a fiercely feminist and raw film that puts a mirror to the face of society. The film is a powerhouse of brilliant performances, with Shalini Vatsa, Chitrangada Satarupa, and Sonal Joshi delivering some sterling realistic acts, making it a compelling watch. The narrative does not shy away from tackling potent issues, bringing to fore a bold and impactful storyline that provokes deeper thought and discussion. The director adds a new dimension to feminist cinema, carving out a niche in the vast expanse of the Indian film industry. An eye-opener, a provoker, a game-changer – "Tottaa Pataaka Item Maal" is a must-watch for those who crave depth and realism in cinema.