"X"=Prem Bengali Movie Review #BlogchatterA2Z

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The #BlogchatterA2Z challenge is becoming increasingly difficult as I searched for a Bengali movie that starts with the letter X. Just when I was about to lose hope, I discovered a film directed by Srijit Mukherji, titled "X=Prem," which I had never heard of before. I am truly grateful to director Srijit Mukherji for this find, as it provided me with the movie I will be reviewing today.

Synopsis

Khilat has lost the most valuable ten years of his memory due to an accident that occurred while he was driving with his fiancée, Joyee. As a result, he cannot remember any of his academic skills or achievements, which would help him secure a job. Even his romantic memories with Joyi have been erased from his mind, despite her best efforts to help him recall the beautiful moments they created together. 

Khilat consults Dr. Kaufman, who suggests that he undergo a memory transplant. This procedure requires two donors: one individual with the same academic skills and achievements as Khilat, and another who shares his deep love for Joyee. While finding the first donor is relatively straightforward and allows Khilat to secure his dream job, searching for the second donor becomes more challenging. 

After going from door to door, they finally meet Arnab, a man who was once madly in love with Joyee. He often sent her anonymous love letters and gifts during their college years. Now, Arnab is married to Aditi but feels unhappy, as the memories of Joyee prevent him from leading a normal life with his wife. 

When Joyee and Khilat approach Arnab and his wife to request his help as a memory donor, Arnab has initial reservations. However, after some discussion, he ultimately agrees to participate in the procedure to save his own marriage, as Aditi truly loves him. 

What happens after that? Was the transplant successful?

Review and Significance

Does Dr. Kaufman sound familiar? Step into the reverse world of "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind." In this 2004 classic, the two protagonists visited Dr. Kaufman to erase their memories, but in this story, they seek to restore them through a process of memory transplanting. It's quite an intriguing premise, isn't it? The film is entirely in black and white, possibly because the director wanted to introduce colour through the spontaneous love story of Khilat and Joyee.

The love story is truly memorable; their romance blossoms from the very first day they meet. What was initially meant to be a ragging or introduction session transforms into a beautiful tango. Their friendship evolves through shared experiences with drinks, weed, impulsive skinny dips, and exchanging vows in a secluded temple in a forest.

When the ex-lover and stalker Arnab enters the story, the film shifts its focus to a more intense exploration of love. The concept is unique, and the performances are convincing, but what truly stands out is the deep emotional connection between the two main characters. Joyee's passionate love and her relentless efforts to help her fiancé regain the memories they created over the past ten years are especially poignant. The heartbreak she experiences each time she fails in this endeavour is truly touching. 

Anindya Sengupta delivers a commendable performance as Khilat, particularly in the scenes depicting his college days. However, his portrayal of present-day Khilat, where he grapples with confusion and a desire to explore his past, could be improved. The eagerness and determination necessary for this role were somewhat lacking. In contrast, Shruti Das, playing Joyee, effortlessly brings those qualities to her character. Arjun Chakraborty consistently stands out as a believable actor. He excels as both a college stalker and an unhappy husband, effectively showcasing the mechanical conversations and sexual encounters he has with his wife. Overall, his performance is impressive.

X=Prem, although not Srijit Mukherjee's best work, still offers viewers a chance to witness something novel.




Release, Cast & Characters

X=Prem was released in 2022.

Cast

Anindya Sengupta as Khilat

Shruti Das as Joyee

Arjun Chakraborty as Arnab

Madhurima Basak as Aditi


I'm participating in #BlogchatterA2Z

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