Aathva Rang Premacha

Story: 'Aathva Rang Premacha' tells the story of Krutika, an acid attack survivor and her journey to find peace in the face of adversity and depression.

Review: While at first look Aathva Rang Premacha sounds like a romantic film about finding love in dire circumstances, it ends up being much more within the initial quarter. What unfolds later can only be described as a genre bending investigative drama. The movie revolves around Krutika (Rinku Rajguru), an independent career woman, who suffers an acid attack as an act of revenge. Shattered and broken, she holds on with the support of her family and colleague (Vishal Anand). Krutika’s Father (Makarand Deshpande) is a police officer and takes charge of the case. What follows is an investigation that questions the ethics, morals and motivations of all the characters involved. Aathva Ranga Premacha presents an extremely sensitive topic with a lot of nuance and without sounding preachy. The characters are well developed and the pace keeps you hooked to the story throughout. Makarand Deshpande walks the line between playing the caring father and an officer of the law with grace. The father-daughter relationship that he shares with Rinku Rajguru stays with you even after the film.

There are a lot of subtle layers that the film touches upon right from societal prejudice and nature of love to ethical choices and ends justifying the means. Certain narrative aspects seem rushed in order to fit the five songs of the film. Expanding these would have aided the audience’s investment in the characters and provided a deeper look into the struggles of an acid attack survivor. A special mention for the use of practical makeup and effects which go a long way in adding to the realism of the experience.

In short, 'Aathva Rang Premacha' has a great plot, backed by some solid performances.

-Anub George