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
| Factor | Amount (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)
| Day | India (INR Crore) | Overseas (INR Crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 0.50 | 0.30 |
| Day 2 | 0.55 | 0.20 |
| Day 3 | 0.45 | 0.15 |
| Day 4 | 0.30 | 0.10 |
| Day 5 | 0.25 | 0.05 |
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.
