Lantrani

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Lantrani (2024)

"Lantrani" is a 2024 Indian Hindi-language anthology film comprising three short-film segments written by Durgesh Singh and directed by Gurvinder Singh, Kaushik Gangully, and Bhaskar Hazarika. The principal cast features Johny Lever, Jitendra Kumar, Jisshu Sengupta, and Nimisha Sajayan. Cinematography is handled by Sandeep Yadav, Riju Das, and Appu Prabhakar. Avinash Gupta contributes to the songwriting while the background score is crafted by Vinod K Ram, Indraadip Das Gupta, and Abhishek Jain. Produced by Pranay Garg and Piyush Dinesh Gupta under the banner of Neeljai Films and NMKRH, the film was released on February 9, 2024, on Zee5.

Plot

Dharna Mana He

In India, the term 'Dharna' often conjures images of disruption caused by activists, seen as a media spectacle for garnering attention. Yet, at its essence, it symbolizes a legitimate form of protest—a plea for justice when all other avenues seem closed. Gomti Devi, a 35-year-old woman from the village of Laxmipura, led a quiet life until thrust into prominence after becoming the first Dalit Woman Sarpanch in the village. This milestone was largely due to her outspoken husband, Debu, who advocates against injustices. Encouraged by Debu, Gomti contested the election, winning a seat reserved for scheduled caste women. However, their victory revealed that the battle for change in their village was far from over.  

To access government funds for development, Gomti requires the signatures of the other four Upper Caste male members of the Panchayat, who reject her leadership based on her gender and caste. Despite various attempts, Gomti's constitutional rights become entangled in bureaucratic obstacles. Faced with this impasse, and inspired by the Gandhian principle of Dharna, Debu and Gomti opt for a 'Maun Dharna' in front of the District Development Officer's office. They relocate from their village to directly confront the system's representatives, choosing silence to amplify their cause rather than words alone.  

Their protest garners attention from local media and passersby, initially drawn to their silent 'acts' highlighting injustice. However, they soon face harassment from street vendors disrupted by their presence. The DDO's assistant employs underhanded tactics to end the Dharna, while media interest wanes over time. Despite this, Gomti and Debu persist, enduring harsh conditions and strengthening their bond over five years, spent mostly in protest.  

As Gomti's term as Sarpanch ends, they decide to contest the election once more, determined to continue their fight for justice.

Sanitised Samachaar

Contemporary television news channels in India are often criticized for their sensationalized nature. However, the underlying reason behind this sensationalism is the fierce competition for advertising revenue. E News, a struggling local channel, faces severe financial challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic and ensuing lockdown. To keep the channel operational, every employee, from top to bottom, is compelled to engage in a side business of packaging Namkeen. With salaries unpaid for three months, most employees have departed, leaving behind a few, including Malay, a young reporter who fears for his safety due to lack of proper equipment.  

Desperate to save the channel from collapse, Pinaki, the anxious Channel Head, seizes an opportunity when Hand Sanitizer Brand Covinash expresses interest in sponsoring a prime-time bulletin. However, a hurdle arises as the channel's star anchor, Miss Milli, is incapacitated by Covid-19, and the client insists on her appearance. In a bid to appease the client, the team resorts to desperate measures, including Malay dressing up as the Coronavirus and enduring humiliation on camera.  

Meanwhile, Miss Milli is quarantined due to rent arrears, presenting another challenge. Pinaki and cameraman Haridas pose as health officials to escort her to the studio, only to discover her weakened state. Despite various obstacles, including overdue studio rent and intimidating goons, the team perseveres, realizing that failure to air the bulletin could mean the end of the channel.  

As the deadline approaches, tensions escalate, but the team resolves to proceed, risking their health to ensure the show goes on. Despite initial reluctance, they ultimately agree to let Miss Milli appear without a mask, exposing themselves to Covid-19. The bulletin airs, showcasing segments mirroring those of a typical news channel, highlighting the resilience of ordinary people amidst adversity.

Beneath the comedic elements and fast-paced narrative, "Sanitized Samachar" portrays the struggles of everyday individuals navigating extraordinary circumstances to make ends meet.

Hud Hud Dabang

Dileep Awasthi, a compassionate police clerk in a small town in Uttar Pradesh, finally gets a chance to engage in real police work after spending 25 years behind a desk at the police station. With his superiors occupied providing security for a Bollywood star in town, Dileep is tasked with escorting a criminal to a lower court a few hours away. Given a gun for the first time, Dileep experiences an adrenaline rush. Alongside the firearm, he is provided with a bullet motorbike and instructed to ensure the criminal's timely arrival.

Securing the criminal's hands to his own, Dileep conceals the gun beneath his belt and sets off on the bike with the criminal as his passenger. During the journey, Dileep realizes the criminal is dozing off and decides to make a pit stop at a highway Dhaba for tea. Upon receiving indifferent service, Dileep places his gun on the table, prompting a change in attitude from the Dhaba staff.

As they wait, a wedding procession passes by, and Dileep gains unexpected admiration when the groom requests a selfie with him and the gun. However, Dileep's elation is short-lived as he discovers the gun missing when settling the bill. Frantically searching for the weapon, Dileep receives a call from his superior urging him to hasten his journey.

After futile attempts to locate the missing gun, Dileep notices the groom from the wedding procession posing with the gun on Dileep's bike. Pursuing the groom and the criminal, Dileep and the criminal eventually retrieve the gun, but not before enduring a lengthy chase.

Arriving at the court, Dileep is stunned to learn the criminal faces charges related to homosexuality, leading to harsh judgment and mistreatment in court. Witnessing the defense lawyer and his associates assault the criminal, Dileep intervenes, using the gun to protect the criminal. Subsequently, Dileep releases the criminal in a remote location, urging him to start anew.

However, as Dileep departs, a gunshot is heard, and he realizes the gun is missing again. Turning back, Dileep discovers the gun is gone, leaving the story with an unresolved ending.

Soundtrack

The music features a collaborative effort by talented composers and songwriters. Avinash Gupta is credited for his contributions to the songwriting, bringing his creative vision to the musical aspect of the film.

The background score of is crafted by a team of composers. Vinod K Ram, known for his expertise in creating immersive soundscapes, lends his skills to enriching the film's atmosphere. Indraadip Das Gupta, renowned for his versatile compositions across various genres, adds depth and emotion to the background score. Abhishek Jain's musical contributions further enhance the cinematic experience, creating a cohesive auditory backdrop that complements the film's narrative.

Together, these talented individuals contribute to the musical tapestry of "Lantrani," enriching the viewing experience with their diverse styles and creative prowess. Their collaborative efforts play a crucial role in shaping the film's mood, tone, and overall impact, making the music an integral aspect of the cinematic journey.

Main Cast

The main cast boasts a talented ensemble of actors who bring depth and authenticity to their respective roles.

Johny Lever, a veteran actor known for his comedic prowess and versatility, is featured prominently in the film, captivating audiences with his charismatic performances.

Jitendra Kumar, celebrated for his nuanced portrayals in various films and web series, delivers a compelling performance that resonates with viewers.

Jisshu Sengupta, recognized for his impressive range and emotive acting, adds depth and complexity to the film's narrative with his portrayal.

Sanjay Mahanand, known for his impactful performances, brings intensity and gravitas to his character, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.

Boloram Das, a talented actor known for his ability to inhabit diverse roles with authenticity, contributes to the ensemble with his memorable performance.

Nimisha Sajayan, acclaimed for her nuanced acting and captivating presence on screen, delivers a standout performance that resonates with audiences.

Together, this cast of "Lantrani" showcases their talent and dedication, elevating the film with their captivating performances and bringing the story to life with authenticity and emotion.