The Bengali filmmaker Mrinal Sen was known for his politically influenced rebellious films that went against the grain of mainstream philosophies. Born in 1923, May 14, this year marks his birth centenary. The filmmaker has left a legacy of art that explored the lives, thoughts, and beliefs of people belonging to all social classes. Sen was the recipient of various national and international honours including eighteen Indian National film Awards. He was also one of few Indian filmmakers to have won awards at film festivals such Cannes, Venice and the Berlinale. In remembrance of the late visionary, here is a list of 10 of his movies to binge:
1. Chaalchitra (The Kaleidoscope)
A newspaper editor and a writer, aspire to put pen to paper to portray an intimate version of the middle class. Cynical young writer Dipu has two days to prove his worth as a writer.
2. Baishey Sravan
Set in the late 1930s prior to World War II. The movie portrays how poverty, famine, and unemployment kills humanity.
3. Padatik
Maoist Naxalites gain momentum in 70's India. A revolutionary on the run from police custody finds shelter in an upper class apartment owned by a young woman.
4. Aakaler Sandhane
Filmmakers become involved with villagers as they arrive to shoot a film about famine.
5. Antareen
A writer looking for inspiration moves into his friend's house. A chance telephonic conversation with a woman moves him towards finding love instead.
6.Ek Din Achanak
The disappearance of a retired professor forces his wife and children to keep looking to the past. A series of fragmented encounters between the facade of normalcy as days go on.
7. Aamar Bhuvan
After the divorce of protagonists Sakhina and Nur. The story follows Sakhina as she remarries a man who cannot provide for her. Amidst this, Sakhina's ex husband comes back as a rich man.
8. Bhuvan Shome
A lonely workaholic widower seeks escape in a holiday where a young woman helps him see beyond his work and develop a newfound sense of empathy.
9. MahaPrithibi
An elderly woman is responsible for her family of three sons and one daughter. After being worn down by life, she finally decides to commit suicide.
10. Akash Kusum
Protagonist Ajoy is from a lower-middle class family but pretends to be a business tycoon to win his lover's hand from her rich father.
