"H" erbert Bengali Movie Review #BlogchatterA2Z

Suman Mukhopadhyay's directorial debut, "H" erbert, received numerous awards and accolades. It has been adapted from Nabarun Bhattacharya's book of the same name. Today, on the 8th day of #BlogchatterA2Z, I have chosen to review this film.

Synopsis

Herbert is an orphaned boy who loses both his parents in separate incidents. His father, a well-known film director, leaves behind a substantial estate. However, Herbert's uncle's family takes control of the property and reduces the young boy to the role of an errand boy, neglecting his education. Herbert's elder uncle, Krishna, and his son, Binu, have a misguided affection for him and introduce him to extremist ideologies. He also forms a romantic connection with his neighbour, Buki, who leaves the city within a short time. Angered and ridiculed by all, due to his eccentric behaviour, Herbert turns to a Mystic, claiming to talk to the dead. When one of his predictions becomes real, he makes a name for himself, garnering many followers. However, all of a sudden he commits suicide by slitting his wrist. As per his last wish, he is burned along with his bed, only for the entire burning ghat to be exploded by bombs planted under the bed. Post his death, an investigation declares him an anti-national extremist.

Review & Synopsis

The film begins with Herbert exhibiting erratic behaviour and ultimately committing suicide. It then shifts to a flashback that reveals his life story. The narrative illustrates how fate can be ruthless to an innocent person. Throughout his life, Herbert endures the loss of loved ones and betrayal from those closest to him. The constant ridicule he faces drives him to eccentricity. Even in death, he is falsely accused of orchestrating a bomb blast, as his nephew had hidden explosives beneath his bed without his knowledge.

Herbert's story highlights the plight of an unfortunate individual who loved everyone but was labelled a no-gooder due to his outward appearance. The director masterfully captures the complexities of human nature in every frame.

In terms of performance, Shubhashish Mukherji portrays Herbert exceptionally well. His eccentricity, particularly when he believes he can communicate with the dead, is both humorous and poignant. The sight of him walking through the streets of Kolkata, dressed in a trench coat and hat, adds to the character’s depth, suggesting his mental turmoil, possibly stemming from acute schizophrenia. A special mention goes to Joyraj Bhattacharya as the young Herbert.

Overall, "H"erbert is a classic tale of individuals who fall victim to their fate, having committed no wrongdoings.

Release, Cast, Characters

Herbert was released in 20025

Cast

Subhashish Mukherjee as Herbert

Neel Mukherjee as Binu

Joyraj Bhattacharya as young Herbert

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