The dark comedy, featuring Madhuri Dixit and Triptii Dimri, attempts to skewer societal perceptions of women, though its delivery falters at times.
The film, Maa Behen, now streaming on Netflix, centers on a mother, Rekha (Madhuri Dixit), and her two daughters, Jaya (Triptii Dimri) and Sushma (Dharna Durga), who are compelled to conceal a crime. Directed by Suresh Triveni, the narrative plunges this dysfunctional family into chaos after a death occurs in their home, forcing them into a series of increasingly elaborate deceptions.
Triptii Dimri's performance as Jaya has been frequently singled out, with several reviews highlighting her sharp comic timing and her ability to portray the character's complexities without resorting to overt performance. Critics note her scenes as some of the film's most effective, with her timing described as "spot on." Dimri herself has referred to the role as a "great experiment" for her as an actor.
Madhuri Dixit as the matriarch Rekha, a woman living on her own terms amidst neighborhood gossip, also garners attention. While some reviews suggest her comedic timing can occasionally lag behind her co-stars, her "glowing presence" and expressive delivery are credited with compensating. Dharna Durga, in her debut as Sushma, has been noted for her contribution to the ensemble.
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A Commentary Lost in Translation?
While Maa Behen aims for sharp social commentary on the death of traditional shame and how society misjudges women, the execution has drawn mixed reactions. Some reviewers find the commentary gets lost as the on-screen society resembles a sitcom setting rather than a grounded community. The characters, in this view, function more as symbols than fully realized individuals, diluting the impact of the intended points.
The film's pacing has also been a point of discussion. Several critiques mention that Maa Behen takes its time finding its rhythm and that its "world-building" phase could test a viewer's patience. Despite these observations, the movie is generally characterized as a "frantic, polished ride" and a "deliciously chaotic dramedy."
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Behind the Lens
Director Suresh Triveni spoke about the film's genesis, mentioning the influence of certain Hindi dialects and the collaborative writing process with Pooja Tolani, who eventually took over the story development. The director also touched upon the intricate process of editing, where the comedic elements are finally brought together. The "sense of chaos," according to some accounts, felt natural on set, with the cast embracing the unpredictable nature of the production. The film's exploration of its themes, particularly its focus on women navigating societal expectations and familial friction, has been noted for its bold and eccentric approach.
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