Mrs.-Movie-Review

A powerful bollywood film that exposes patriarchy and challenges gender norms

 

"Mrs." is a Hindi remake of "The Great Indian Kitchen", directed and written by Arati Kadav, with Sanya Malhotra in the lead. The film serves as a powerful critique of patriarchal culture, highlighting both the subtle and overt ways in which women are subordinated within Indian homes.

 

Thematic Exploration

 

The film shows how patriarchy operates through customary actions rather than overt cruelty. Richa's initial optimism slowly gives way to disillusionment as she confronts the harsh realities of her new life. It portrays the deep-rooted patriarchy present in Indian households, including those that are considered modern. The film highlights the expectations placed on women to handle household responsibilities and the perception of their inability to manage a home, which often overshadows their professional ambitions and dreams.

 

Relatable Characters and Strong Performances

 

Sanya Malhotra delivers a stunning performance as Richa, capturing the character's inner conflict with grace. She portrays the quiet desperation of a woman trapped by unspoken expectations and structural misogyny. Nishant Dahiya plays Diwakar, Richa's husband, embodying a man shaped by his father's ideology, never questioning the deeply entrenched patriarchy. Kanwaljit Singh portrays the father-in-law, whose seemingly polite patriarchal remarks are infuriating to the audience.

 

Subtle Nuances

 

One notable deviation from the original "The Great Indian Kitchen" is the tone of the domestic relationships. In this version, "Mrs." has a more vibrant tone, which may resonate better with a different audience. Additionally, the husband's occupation has been changed from a teacher to a gynecologist, creating a false impression that he will be able to understand Richa's needs. However, he is emotionally insensitive and continues to perpetuate patriarchal attitudes.

 

Patriarchal Elements

 

The narrative highlights a series of injustices that Richa endures, including the monotony of household chores and outdated beliefs regarding menstruation. She faces expectations that prioritize her husband's and in-laws' needs above her own. Her father-in-law even prohibits her from seeking employment, adhering to the belief that a woman brings good fortune to the household. Additionally, the film illustrates the lack of support from other women in her life, such as her mother-in-law and even her own mother, who encourages Richa to sacrifice her own happiness and endure the hardships she faces.

 

Why Men Should Watch?

 

"Mrs." is a film that everyone, including men, should watch because it breaks away from the typical Bollywood formula and addresses the treatment of women in society. The film challenges traditional gender roles and highlights how patriarchy is perpetuated in subtle ways. By watching "Mrs.," men can gain insight into the experiences of women in patriarchal households and reflect on their own behaviors and attitudes.
 
The film encourages men to question common assumptions and consider the importance of equality and respect in relationships. It also sheds light on the complicity of other women in maintaining these systems. By illustrating the intergenerational cycle of normalized oppression, "Mrs." compels viewers to confront the broader societal conditioning that traps women.

 

Impact and Conclusion

 

“Mrs.” is a powerful commentary on patriarchal norms and a call for change. While it may not be as overtly confrontational as "The Great Indian Kitchen" for those accustomed to traditional perspectives, it still delivers a sharp critique, largely thanks to Sanya Malhotra's compelling performance. The film illustrates the idea that “hell hath no fury like a woman scorned” and highlights the risks of being single before marriage. It satirically examines patriarchy and its influence on seemingly innocuous, everyday practices. "Mrs." is a film that can help spark important conversations and pave the way for a more equal society.