The Last Lear, a must-watch Rituparno Ghosh film, writes Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma//

The Last Lear, directed by Rituparno Ghosh and released in 2007, brings William Shakespeare and Utpal Dutt into our minds. The Last Lear is a profound cinematic exploration of art, life, and the intersection between reality and performance. Based on the legendary Utpal Dutt’s celebrated play ‘Aajker Shahjahan,’ the film delves into the complexities of an aging actor’s psyche and his relationship with the craft of acting. Here’s an analysis of the film, focusing on its themes, performances, direction, and narrative structure.

At the heart of The Last Lear lies the dichotomy between art and reality. The protagonist, Harish Mishra, played by Amitabh Bachchan, is a retired Shakespearean actor who is deeply passionate about his craft. The film delves into his struggle to reconcile the world of Shakespearean drama with the mundane reality around him. Mishra’s life is a testament to the idea that for some, art is not just a profession but a way of life. His intense immersion in his roles blurs the lines between the characters he portrays and his real self, raising questions about identity and the transformative power of art.

The film poignantly addresses the themes of aging and legacy. Harish Mishra is portrayed as a man grappling with the inevitability of aging, clinging to his glorious past while facing the twilight of his life. His reluctance to let go of his art and the memories associated with it speaks to the broader human desire for immortality through one’s work. The narrative underscores the fragility of human life and the enduring nature of artistic legacy.

Amitabh Bachchan delivers one of his most nuanced performances as Harish Mishra. His portrayal captures the grandeur and vulnerability of an artist past his prime. Bachchan’s deep baritone, expressive eyes, and commanding presence bring an authenticity to Mishra’s character, making his struggles and passions palpable to the audience.

Shefali Shah, as Vandana, Mishra’s loyal companion, delivers a restrained yet powerful performance, embodying the silent strength and support behind the artist. She won the Best Supporting Actress National Award for her role in the movie. Preity Zinta, as Shabnam, a young actress in awe of Mishra, and Arjun Rampal, as Siddharth, the director who brings Mishra back to the stage, provide strong supporting roles that highlight different facets of Mishra’s character.

Rituparno Ghosh’s direction is a master-class in storytelling. He weaves the narrative with sensitivity and depth, focusing on character development and emotional resonance. Ghosh’s choice to use a non-linear narrative allows the audience to piece together Mishra’s story through a series of flashbacks, creating a mosaic of his life and experiences.

The cinematography by Abhik Mukhopadhyay complements Ghosh’s vision, with its careful attention to detail and evocative use of light and shadow. The settings, ranging from the theatrical stage to the intimate confines of Mishra’s home, serve to highlight the contrast between the grandeur of his past performances and the quiet solitude of his present life.

The Last Lear is a poignant and introspective film that delves deep into the psyche of an artist. Through its exploration of themes like the blurred lines between art and reality, the challenges of aging, and the quest for legacy, the film offers a rich tapestry of human emotions and experiences. Amitabh Bachchan’s stellar performance, supported by a talented cast and Rituparno Ghosh’s sensitive direction, makes The Last Lear a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience. The film is not just a tribute to the world of theatre but also a meditation on the nature of life and the enduring power of art.