Water (2005) is a poignant drama directed by Deepa Mehta, and it forms the final part of her “Elemental Trilogy,” following Fire (1996) and Earth (1998). The film, set in colonial India during the 1930s, explores the lives of widows who are forced to live in isolation due to societal norms. A tale of resilience, hope, and the fight for dignity, Water delves deep into the complexities of social and religious traditions. With its beautifully shot scenes, moving performances, and an evocative soundtrack, the film garnered international acclaim and was even nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. In this review, we will explore the various facets of Water, including its plot, strengths, weaknesses, and overall appeal.
Plot Summary
Water is set in the backdrop of British-occupied India in the 1930s, a time when the plight of widows was a harsh reality. The story revolves around Chuyia, a young widow who is sent to a widow’s ashram, where she is forced to live a life of deprivation and submission. The ashram is ruled by a strict matron, and the widows are expected to live in isolation, away from society. As Chuyia begins to form bonds with the other women, including Kalyani, a beautiful widow who has turned to prostitution to survive, the film explores themes of oppression, rebellion, and the desire for freedom. The arrival of a young man named Narayan, who is deeply moved by Kalyani’s plight, adds an element of romance to the story, and together, they challenge the societal norms that bind them.
What’s Good?
One of the most striking aspects of Water is its stellar performances. The cast, including Seema Biswas (as the matron), Lisa Ray (as Kalyani), and newcomer Sarala Kariyawasam (as Chuyia), delivers outstanding portrayals of their characters, each bringing a unique depth to their roles. The film’s emotional core is carried by these characters, and their performances make the audience empathize with their struggles.
Deepa Mehta’s direction is masterful in capturing the essence of the story. She brings the social and cultural climate of 1930s India to life, with a particular focus on the rigid and oppressive role of women in society. The setting, shot in the picturesque city of Varanasi, adds to the film’s immersive atmosphere. The cinematography is breathtaking, with its careful framing of scenes, contrasting the beautiful natural surroundings with the harsh, confined lives of the widows. The use of light and shadow to depict the emotional states of the characters is a powerful technique that Mehta employs to great effect.
The music, composed by A.R. Rahman, is another highlight. The haunting melodies complement the film’s themes of sorrow, longing, and hope. The score is subtle yet impactful, adding an extra layer of emotion to key scenes. The music’s ability to evoke empathy from the audience is a testament to Rahman’s genius.
Another strength of Water is its exploration of important social issues. The film does not shy away from addressing the stark realities of widowhood in India, particularly the way society marginalizes women and denies them basic human rights. The film’s message is clear: the fight for freedom and dignity is universal, and it transcends time and place.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The most significant strength of Water lies in its ability to tackle complex social issues with sensitivity and depth. The film never feels preachy or heavy-handed, and instead, it invites the audience to reflect on the struggles of its characters. The performances are deeply moving, and the chemistry between the actors enhances the emotional impact of the story. The direction, cinematography, and music come together to create a visually and emotionally rich experience.
However, the film’s pacing can be a bit slow at times, especially in the first half, where some scenes feel drawn out. While the slow pace allows for the emotional weight of the story to sink in, it may not appeal to viewers who prefer faster-paced narratives. Additionally, some may find the film’s portrayal of colonial India and the treatment of widows to be bleak and depressing, though this is a reflection of the harsh reality the film is depicting.
Another potential weakness is the film’s limited appeal to a broader audience. While Water is a powerful and thought-provoking film, it may not resonate with viewers who are unfamiliar with Indian culture or the historical context in which the story is set. The themes of widowhood and societal oppression may also be challenging for some viewers to fully engage with.
Target Audience
Water is a film that will appeal to viewers who appreciate thought-provoking dramas that explore social issues and human rights. It is particularly suited for audiences who enjoy historical films and those interested in the complexities of Indian society during the colonial era. Fans of emotionally intense storytelling and powerful performances will find much to admire in this film. However, due to its heavy themes, it may not be ideal for younger viewers or those seeking light entertainment.
Box Office Details
Water had a production budget of approximately ₹18 crore (INR), a considerable sum for an independent film at the time. Despite its niche subject matter, the film received widespread critical acclaim and managed to make a significant impact at the box office.
The worldwide box office collection for Water was around ₹45 crore (INR), making it a commercial success. The film’s international success helped raise awareness of Deepa Mehta’s work and brought attention to the issues of widowhood and gender inequality in India.
In India, Water earned approximately ₹3 crore (INR) on its opening day, with steady growth in the following days. On the second day, the film grossed ₹4.5 crore (INR), and by the third day, it had crossed ₹5 crore (INR). The film’s success continued to grow as it garnered attention from both urban and rural audiences, with its earnings reaching ₹6 crore (INR) on the fourth day and ₹7 crore (INR) on the fifth day. Overseas, the film performed even better, earning around ₹2 crore (INR) on the opening day and continuing to perform well in international markets.
The film’s box office success is a testament to its universal appeal and the importance of its message, despite its culturally specific setting.
Recommendation
Water is a powerful and thought-provoking film that tackles issues of gender, social injustice, and human dignity with sensitivity and depth. The film’s stellar performances, direction, cinematography, and music come together to create a memorable cinematic experience. While its pacing may be slow for some, and its heavy themes may not appeal to all audiences, Water is a must-watch for those who appreciate socially conscious cinema. Highly recommended for fans of historical dramas and emotionally charged stories.
Table of Contents
Genres:
Drama, Romance
Rating:
6.9/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Lisa Ray | Kalyani |
| Sarala | Chuyia |
| John Abraham | Narayan |
| Seema Biswas | Shakuntala |
| Waheeda Rehman | Bhagavati, Narayan’s Mother |
| Vinay Pathak | Rabindra |
| Rishma Malik Scott | Snehalata |
| Manorama | Madhumati |
| Raghubir Yadav | Gulabi |
| Gerson Da Cunha | Seth Dwarkanath |
| Kulbhushan Kharbanda | Sadananda |
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
