Actor-Director Aparna Sen and her esteemed colleague, veteran actor Anjan Dutt, are set to share the screen as an elderly couple in the forthcoming Bengali movie “Ei Raat Tomar Amaar” (This Night Belongs to You and Me). With a release date set for August 30, the film promises to deliver a poignant exploration of love, regret, and forgiveness, all unravelled in the span of one night. Esteemed director Parambrata Chatterjee shared insights about the film’s unique narrative with PTI.
The plot delves deeply into the lives of a couple who have journeyed through five decades of marriage, touching on themes of heartaches, reconciliations, and enduring affection. As Chatterjee encapsulated it, the film serves as a reflective mirror, examining a half-century-long relationship within the course of a single, transformative night.
This marks not the first time Sen and Dutt have shared the screen. In 2018, they played the roles of contentious lawyers in Srijit Mukherji’s “Ek Je Chhilo Raja” (There Was a King). Reflecting on their roles in that film, Sen shared, “We played warring lawyers who had once been lovers. However, we weren’t the central characters there.” In contrast, “Ei Raat Tomar Amaar” places the seasoned actors at the heart of its story, allowing them to fully explore and embody their characters’ intricate emotions.
Sen and Dutt’s collaboration stems from a long-standing professional and personal relationship. “When you have been friends with someone for a long time, there is already a bond of trust between you, which helps,” Sen elaborated. “Besides, when you have worked as colleagues, you know the other person’s strengths and weaknesses.” This rapport, built over decades, undoubtedly enriches their on-screen chemistry.
Their careers illustrate impressive trajectories. Aparna Sen began her acting journey with the film “Samapti” in 1961, while Anjan Dutt made his debut in “Chalchitro” in 1980. Prior to “Ek Je Chhilo Raja,” they were both cast in Mrinal Sen’s films—”Mahaprithivi” (1991) and “Ek Din Achnaak” (1989)—though their paths never crossed on screen.
Sen’s directorial debut came in 1981 with the critically acclaimed “36 Chowringhee Lane,” and Dutt followed suit by venturing into directing with “Badadin” in 1998.
. Their individual contributions to Bengali cinema have been profound, marking them as stalwarts in the industry.
“Ei Raat Tomar Amaar” brings them together once more, this time in roles that promise to touch the audience with their depth and authenticity. The film’s thematic focus on long-term relationships strikes a universal chord. The narrative’s unfolding in one night adds an element of immediacy and intensity, making it a highly anticipated release for cinephiles and critics alike.
Aparna Sen, known for her nuanced performances and directorial ventures, continues to push boundaries in her illustrious career. Her latest work, “The Rapist,” goes beyond the culprit-survivor binary and has drawn significant attention for its bold narrative choices. Meanwhile, Dutt, whose recent roles and directorial efforts have been celebrated, brings an unparalleled gravitas to the screen.
The film industry, especially Bengali cinema, eagerly awaits the release of “Ei Raat Tomar Amaar.” The ensemble of talent, combined with an evocative storyline, is expected to leave a lasting impact. Fans of Sen and Dutt are particularly enthusiastic about seeing these two titans of Bengali cinema explore the complexities of a long-married couple.
In discussing their chemistry, Sen fondly recalled the camaraderie that emerged during past projects. “There is an unspoken understanding,” she remarked, “a silent rhythm that develops when two actors have known and worked with each other for such a long time.”
Set against the backdrop of Kolkata, the film captures the essence of the city’s spirit and the subtleties of its culture, a testament to Chatterjee’s directorial vision. As August 30 approaches, the anticipation builds, with “Ei Raat Tomar Amaar” poised to make a significant impression on audiences and critics alike.
In conclusion, “Ei Raat Tomar Amaar” brings together two of Bengal’s most revered actors in a heart-wrenching exploration of love and regret. With its unique concept and the combined star power of Sen and Dutt, the film stands as a testament to the enduring appeal and evolving narrative styles of Bengali cinema. The countdown to the premiere has begun, setting the stage for a cinematic experience that promises to be both profound and memorable.
