A tapestry of identity and struggles
‘My Melbourne’ is an anthology film that weaves together four stories based on true incidents, exploring themes of diversity, including sexuality, gender, disability, and race. Helmed individually by Onir, Rima Das, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan, each story is crafted with care and resonates deeply. The narratives are poignant, evoking introspection and empathy. This drama primarily sheds light on the struggles of the repressed, individuals who often remain unheard but, when pushed into a corner, find the courage to transform their lives.
Diverse narratives and filmmaker perspectives
The first story, titled ‘Nandini’ and directed by Onir, revolves around a gay couple, Indraneel (Arka Das) and Christopher (Jackson Gallagher). Indraneel’s father (Mouli Ganguly) from Kolkata visits him following the death of Indra’s mother, Nandini. More than just a ritualistic ash immersion, the visit is an attempt by the father to reconnect with his son. The second story, ‘Jules,’ co-directed by Imtiaz Ali and Arif Ali, follows Sakshi (Arushi Sharma), a newly married woman who has moved to Melbourne and works as a blue-collar worker in a restaurant. She faces an oppressive husband who prioritizes his reputation over supporting her. The third story, ‘Emma,’ directed by Rima Das, is slightly esoteric and follows a talented deaf dancer, Emma (Ryanna Lawson), struggling with self-doubt. Her journey takes a turn when she meets another deaf dancer who rekindles her confidence. The final story, ‘Setara,’ directed by Kabir Khan, delves into one of his familiar themes—Afghanistan. It portrays a displaced family forced to flee due to the Taliban regime, now attempting to rebuild their lives in Australia.
Emotional depth and cinematic execution
Each story is thought-provoking, with Onir’s ‘Nandini’ setting the tone. The film relies less on dialogue and more on the palpable tension between the father and son. The cinematography and performances create an atmosphere of sorrow, poignancy, and eventual reconciliation. ‘Jules’ explores gender issues through the character of a homeless woman named Jules (Kat Stewart), though her role in Sakshi’s liberation remains somewhat ambiguous. This story carries a relatively light tone compared to the others. ‘Emma’ stands out with its all-Australian cast and its portrayal of the challenges faced by the deaf dancer. The film’s esoteric nature is heightened by its dance sequences. ‘Setara,’ with its commercial appeal, intertwines themes of race and resilience, offering an underdog narrative.
Powerful performances and character portrayals
The anthology’s strength lies in its honest performances. Arka Das as Indraneel and Mouli Ganguly as Mihir bring out the nuanced struggles queer individuals face with their families. Ryanna Lawson, a deaf actress playing Emma, delivers an authentic performance, capturing the character’s internal conflict. Arushi Sharma portrays Sakshi with depth, effectively conveying her fear and eventual transformation. ‘Setara’ features three Afghan actors, with Setara Amiri’s portrayal of a newly enrolled schoolgirl standing out. The ensemble successfully conveys the pain of displacement, adding emotional weight to the story.
Verdict
‘My Melbourne’ serves as a cinematic smorgasbord, offering something for everyone. The anthology transitions from abstract themes to more accessible narratives, showcasing the filmmakers’ creative freedom. While it lacks mass appeal, it provides a platform for artistic experimentation within defined boundaries. Despite its niche positioning, the film makes a sincere effort to highlight themes of sexuality, gender, disability, and race, a commendable attempt that deserves recognition.
Cast: Arka Das, Mouli Ganguly, Ryanna Lawson, Arushi Sharma, Kat Stewart, Setara Amiri, and Brad Hodge
Directors: Onir, Imtiaz Ali, Arif Ali, Rima Das, and Kabir Khan
Rating: 3.5/5
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