Provoked - A True Story ...Liberated in Exile - How one abused Punjabi woman got her freedom
It’s been one heck of a year for Aishwariya Rai! From Dhoom 2 to Guru, and finally her wedding to Abhishek Bachchan, she's been on a role! But look out for a speed bump because on the international front, she may have earned global recognition, but her work has yet to be welcomed with open arms. However Provoked: A True Story may just be the performance that’ll silence her detractors. Take a look at the review of Jag Mundhra’s Provoked: A True Story.
The beauty of a Jagmohan Mundhra film is that it has the ability to take a true story, socially relevant on all fronts, and tell it in an engaging manner. Provoked is a story that speaks directly to the many women in our society. It’s an inspirational and touching subject.
Entirely deserving of a screenplay, the Provoked team can be applauded for their efforts.
However, while the topic is appealing, its presentation lacks in flawless execution. Previously Mundhra had directed Bawandar, again a film on social injustice faced by women, which was brilliant throughout. Provoked does not display the same finesse nor detail. Certain sequences, for instance, interaction with jail mates are exaggerated and showcase amateur acting. But to Mundhra’s credit the order of sequences and flow is well paced. The scenes between Miranda Richardson and Aishwariya deserve special mention. The warm bond formed and sentiments clearly penetrate to audiences.
From a technical standpoint, cinematography is average. Special effects are well done. Art direction is on point, setting the right mood. The dialogues give the screenplay strength and are empowering.
As for acting, Naveen Andrews stands out and takes notice, though he’s given minimal exposure. Nandita Das tries, but goes over the top in her attempt. Miranda Richardson is the most likeable of the supporting cast; endearing, with a commendable performance. Finally zipping the mouths of her mockers is Aishwariya Rai! Ranking amongst some of her best work, Aishwariya is the soul of Provoked. In a surprise act, not only does her natural beauty leave viewers in awe, but her genuine performance is heartfelt.
Provoked: A True Story, can be criticized on a technical front or even on factual basis. But what stands firm is the fact that it’s a story on a true case, Regina vs. Alhuwalia that redefined ‘provocation’ in the cases of battered women. When pushed to the limit, or out of simple fear, what Kiranjeet did may not be the message to walk away with. Rather the lesson for wise viewers would be to seek help before one’s mental state develops to those extremes. Seeking to educate, Provoked: A True Story is deserving of Ritu’s 3 stars.
Watch Provoked and try not to misconstrue the lesson, but understand the deeper intent.