The film Pratyabartan explores fundamental questions of contemporary life. Besides acquainting viewers with the film’s mood and setting and its principal characters, the trailer also outlines the basic premise of the story, offering hints at the critical problems of modern urban life that the film addresses.
As revealed earlier by its teaser, Pratyabartan talks about a return to roots as a possible solution to the fundamental crisis of contemporary life and society. In it, when Disha (Mishtu), the lonely, teenaged daughter of successful doctor parents (Silajit Majumdar and Aparajita Adhya), falls into bad company, becomes the victim of substance abuse and then takes a desperate step, the family is at a loss to handle the pain, shame and stigma. They decide to leave the city and return to their ancestral village to cope with their situation and to try to rebuild their broken lives. Though the village offers refuge, it probably brings them closer to their own bitter truths and lays bare their weaknesses, flaws and imperfections. Whether it makes them confront their lives with honesty, take ownership of their actions and enables them to learn important life lessons that shape the future of their family, is what the plot of Pratyabartan revolves around.
Showcasing a seasoned ensemble cast featuring Anjan Dutt and Roopa Ganguly as Disha’s grandparents and Kharaj Mukerjee as a psychologist or counsellor, the trailer suggests powerful, character-driven scenes that bring to focus its themes of regret, failure, nostalgia and the emotional weight of past choices. While Silajit Majumdar and Aparajita Adhya’s performances capture the tension, disconnect and discord in their family, the realism and authenticity of their on-screen relationship may shock viewers into reflecting upon their own lives and their responsibilities towards their families. Mishtu as Disha delivers an impressive debut, articulating her character’s loneliness, vulnerability and helplessness with the perfect balance of emotion and restraint.
Evoking the flavour of an intense emotional drama, the trailer of Pratyabartan indicates a heavy, reflective atmosphere that explores themes of guilt, societal pressure and the need for redemption. It is also a story of modern parenting, emotional neglect of children and the loneliness in modern urban homes, which is shown to be the direct outcome of the relentless race for success, wealth and fame.
The film also deals with the dark side of social media and the dangers of a constantly critical and judgmental society which is quick to malign a person, but is hesitant to offer empathy or support. Its title Pratyabartan (which means homecoming) signifies a return to one’s roots, addressing the need for redemption, accepting one’s truth and rebuilding lost familial bonds. Directed by filmmaker Samarpan Sengupta, Pratyabartan released in theatres on May 1.