Nīraba Mr̥tyudaṇḍa: Exploring the Experimental Bengali Film Landscape with Director Soumeek Chowdhuri

Q. Nīraba Mr̥tyudaṇḍa, could you please provide information on the power of The Silent Execution?

Soumeek Chowdhuri: Nīraba Mr̥tyudaṇḍa, the film adaptation of my English novel "The Silent Execution" which was subsequently translated into Bengali and Spanish, has garnered immense acclaim and numerous accolades. The film boasts a compelling storyline and a well-crafted plot, which has captivated audiences and critics alike. Its remarkable success is evident through the overwhelmingly positive reviews it has received and the multitude of awards it has garnered.

Q. Could you give an overview about the narrative of the movie?

Soumeek Chowdhuri: In today's modern world, a working couple in their early middle age finds themselves in a difficult situation after the lockdown is lifted. They are faced with the heart-breaking loss of their baby and are now in disagreement about who should have taken care of the child. The baby falls ill and tragically passes away, with symptoms resembling ethylene glycol poisoning. While the forensic expert believes this to be the cause, the defense argues that it is a metabolic disorder, bringing in a genetic expert to support their claim. Suspicion falls on the wife, but there are many factors that could point in either direction. As the story unfolds, the plot takes unexpected turns, leaving the reader with a brain-twisting challenge and an analysis of the characters that has been highly praised. The cast includes individuals who are not professional actors or actresses, but have been trained to maintain their authenticity and reflect the essence of real-life characters rather than polished ones.

Q: Is Nīraba Mr̥tyudaṇḍa being presented to a global audience as an Experimental Film originating from West Bengal?

Soumeek Chowdhuri: This unique and challenging experiment has been tried by only a few directors, with theatre actors also contributing a unique element. The success of any project, including this one, relies heavily on the audience's preferences. Such experiments are rare, and the realism in our production is something I believe the audience will appreciate, as their tastes have likely evolved over the years. It will take time to see if the audience truly appreciates the tapestry we have created. The evolution of their tastes will be evident in their reception of this experiment. The collaboration between directors and theatre actors in this endeavor is a testament to the dedication to pushing boundaries and creating something truly different in the world of theatre.

Q: How do you anticipate the film being received in its home country?

Soumeek Chowdhuri: It is my hope that when Nīraba Mr̥tyudaṇḍa is released commercially after being showcased at a few international film festivals, it will receive a response that is both encouraging and realistic. As a filmmaker, I understand that a realistic film may not always generate a commercial response, and I am not necessarily seeking that outcome. However, the experience of creating my first film has taught me invaluable lessons, and I am eager to apply these learnings to my next project, which is scheduled for next year. This upcoming endeavor will likely serve as a culmination of all the knowledge and skills I have acquired thus far, making it a truly significant milestone in my journey as a filmmaker