Manorama Six Feet Under(2000)

Manorama Six Feet Under is a Bollywood neo-noir thriller released on September 21, 2007. Directed by Navdeep Singh, the movie is a slow-burn suspense drama that draws inspiration from the classic Roman Polanski film Chinatown.

Starring Abhay Deol, Gul Panag, Raima Sen, and Vinay Pathak, the film weaves a gripping tale of deceit, crime, and hidden secrets. Unlike mainstream Bollywood thrillers, Manorama Six Feet Under focuses on realism, offering a unique storytelling experience. This review explores the film’s highlights, drawbacks, and overall impact.

Plot Summary

The movie follows Satyaveer Singh (Abhay Deol), a struggling writer and a government engineer living in a small Rajasthan town. His monotonous life takes an unexpected turn when Manorama (Sarika), the wife of a politician, hires him to investigate her husband’s suspected affair. However, what seems like a simple case soon unravels into a much bigger conspiracy, dragging Satyaveer into a web of political corruption, deceit, and murder.

As he delves deeper, Satyaveer realizes that things are not as they seem, leading to shocking discoveries and life-threatening consequences. The film keeps the audience engaged with its dark and atmospheric storytelling.

What’s Good?

1. Abhay Deol’s Performance

  • Abhay Deol delivers a subtle yet impactful performance as an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances.
  • His portrayal of vulnerability, curiosity, and determination makes his character relatable.

2. Gripping Direction and Screenplay

  • Navdeep Singh masterfully creates a moody atmosphere with slow-burn tension.
  • The screenplay keeps viewers intrigued, gradually unfolding layers of mystery.

3. Authentic Small-Town Setting

  • The film captures the essence of small-town Rajasthan, enhancing its realism.
  • The dusty roads, political tensions, and rustic backdrop add to the film’s charm.

4. Engaging Background Score and Cinematography

  • The subtle background music builds suspense without overpowering the scenes.
  • The cinematography enhances the noir feel, using muted tones and shadowy lighting.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Strong performances by the entire cast.
  • Intricate plot that keeps the audience guessing.
  • Realistic portrayal of political corruption and small-town life.
  • No unnecessary Bollywood clichés like forced songs or exaggerated action.

Weaknesses:

  • Slow pacing in some portions may not appeal to all viewers.
  • Complex narrative that requires careful attention to follow.
  • Minimal mainstream appeal due to its dark and unconventional storytelling.

Target Audience

This movie is ideal for:

  • Thriller and mystery lovers who enjoy well-crafted stories.
  • Fans of neo-noir cinema looking for a Bollywood adaptation of the genre.
  • Viewers who appreciate realistic and thought-provoking storytelling.
  • Fans of Abhay Deol and his unconventional film choices.

Box Office Details

FactorAmount (INR)
Budget₹8 crore
Worldwide Collection₹4 crore
India First-Day Collection₹0.50 crore
India First-Weekend Collection₹1.5 crore
Overseas First-Weekend Collection₹0.80 crore

Day-wise Earnings (India and Overseas)

DayIndia (INR Crore)Overseas (INR Crore)
Day 10.500.30
Day 20.550.20
Day 30.450.15
Day 40.300.10
Day 50.250.05

The film was a box office disappointment, but it has gained a cult following over time.

Recommendation

Manorama Six Feet Under is a hidden gem in Bollywood’s thriller genre. With its engaging plot, realistic performances, and suspenseful storytelling, it is a must-watch for fans of mystery and noir cinema. If you enjoy intelligent thrillers that require attention to detail, this film is highly recommended.

Ram Pukar

About the Author: Ram Pukar

Rampukar is a passionate and experienced movie reviewer with a strong academic background in film theory and media studies. He earned his degree in Mass Communication from Polygon College, Kathmandu, where he honed his skills in dissecting and understanding cinema. With a keen eye for storytelling, cinematography, and performances, he currently writes insightful reviews for Bolly4U, offering readers a deep dive into the world of films.

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