Review of Mother India (1957) by Andy C — 11 Mar 2011
If there is one thing that Indian filmmakers do better than anyone else in the world, it's incorporating music and song into a films narrative. While I love American musicals, Indian films manage to make the musical numbers natural and almost elevate them to the realm of realism. Mother India does a fantastic job with its song numbers which add emotional weight to a somewhat overly melodramatic plot.
Nargis is fantastic in the lead role, filling the role with a dignity, strength and respect that is often missing in Hollywood films. The surrounding players don't carry the same weight that she does, but are none the less respectable.
It's an epic and it more than lives up to the billing. Gorgeous colour that is used to its best advantage, creating striking compositions, highlighting in particular the wonderful costumes.
While I find the end a little too over the top for me as well as the adult Birji, but that's more personal preference than a criticism of the film.
This review of Mother India (1957) was written by Andy C on 11 Mar 2011.
Mother India has generally received positive reviews.
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