Movies with stories based on crime are always a major draw with audiences and more so when they are based on real-life incidents. Raj Chakraborty's upcoming film Hok Kolorob, based on the true incident of the tragic death of a fresher student allegedly due to ragging by his seniors at a city university hostel, hits closest to home, and is expected to arouse deep interest and spark fresh conversations about the incident which generated great furore among the general public after it was reported. The teaser of Hok Kolorob informs viewers that the film will be a no-holds-barred narrative of the aftermath of the tragedy that shook the city, and particularly the student community, out of its stupor, albeit momentarily and a little too late.
Full of disturbing scenes of anarchy and violence, the teaser highlights students' rebellion against the police force. Images of police atrocity during custodial interrogation also figure in the teaser, though mainly to focus attention on students' defiance and nonchalance against the investigating authorities. It is evident that besides condemning ragging and bullying as social and criminal offences, Hok Kolorob will also deal with youth power and influence. Its depiction of leaders of student unions clearly suggests a nexus between them and political leaders, the former's power and connections as derived from the latter being indicated as barriers standing in the way of students' justice and welfare.
The poster of the film
One of the highlights of the teaser is the character of Khudiram Chaki, the senior police officer entrusted with the investigation of the case. Portrayed with characteristic flair by Saswata Chatterjee, his top cop is as tough as nails and as cool as cucumber. Though somewhat controversial, the words he uses to introduce himself to the mob are definitely meant to shock and awe. The brief encounter also portends that Hok Kolorob may be replete with crude, unrefined verbal exchanges, besides those of a more physical nature.
Structured in the same vein as his character Animesh Dutta of Proloy fame, it is clear that Saswata is enjoying himself playing a cop in Hok Kolorob. The glimpses of his character that viewers get from the teaser are enough to suggest that Khudiram Chaki's character will have several shades and layers and may drop more surprises when his entire personality is revealed in the film. Also starring John Bhattacharya and Om Sahani in pivotal roles as student leaders, Hok Kolorob, which promises to be a story full of intense action, violence and suspense, will release in theatres on January 23.
