Cycle

Story: Two thieves break into the house of the head of a village. However, while escaping, they are chased by dogs and end up stealing the bicycle of the astrologer Keshav.

Review: Heart-warming is the first word that comes to the mind after watching Prakash Kunte’s Cycle. The film’s novelty lies in the fact that it goes against the flow, ditching the usual structure and aspects we have grown to expect from a film, the most striking and important one of these being the lack of a villain or negative character.

We are introduced to Keshav (Joshi), an astrologer from Konkan, who is held in high regard by residents of the village and neighbouring areas as well. Keshav is not bound to material belongings and even offers his services free of cost to everyone. However, he has a strange attachment to his cycle, a gift from his grandfather. He believes his astrological prowess comes from the cycle. So, when two thieves, Mangya (Jadhav) and Gajya (Kadam) unintentionally end up stealing the cycle, Keshav’s whole life goes for a toss. On the other hand, due to Keshav’s goodwill, Mangya and Gajya’s life becomes easy. Everyone who recognises the cycle welcomes them home and treats them with respect. Somewhere down the line, the two thieves start realising their mistake.

Cycle is a work of fiction and the disclaimer at the start of the film makes sure to tell you that. The story, by Aditi Moghe, is based in the post-independence era and at a time when people were content and happy to help each other. This is a premise that the viewer has to accept in order to identify with the film because otherwise, a lot of logical questions can pop up in your mind.

The journey of two thieves from finding way to con people to turning around their lives materialises beautifully in this story. Simultaneously, Keshav’s journey of self-realisation unfolds in an equally beautiful way.

The performances only add more beauty to the film. Hrishikesh Joshi conveys a lot through his expressions and body language. Priyadarshan Jadhav and Bhau Kadam, who are both known for their impeccable comic timing, surprise in roles that are much opposite to that generalisation.

Characters come and go but the fell-good factor and genuineness of the story remains. That’s why Cycle works and you walk out of the cinema hall with a smile on your face.