Zwigato Movie Review : Delivers a critical message but at a plodding pace

Zwigato Movie Review : Delivers a critical message but at a plodding pace

Zwigato, directed and co-written by Nandita Das, offers a glimpse into the life of a food delivery driver, Manas Mahto (Kapil Sharma), and the struggles faced by a certain section of the society due to lack of adequate employment opportunities. The film also sensitively touches upon the class and gender discrimination deeply embedded in our society.

The movie opens with Manas losing his job as a floor manager at a factory, which compels him to take up a gig as a delivery guy for a food delivery app. As he starts his new job, he quickly realizes that things are not as easy as they seem. App companies dangle the carrot called ‘incentives,’ which takes the drivers down the rabbit hole of making maximum deliveries daily, leading to exploitation at various levels. This situation resonates with the real-life experience of many delivery drivers, who are pushed to work long hours to meet unrealistic targets set by the companies they work for.

The film also explores the complex dynamics of Manas's family life. His wife Pratima (Shahana Goswami) decides to take up a job as a cleaner in a mall, much to his disapproval. This decision causes tension in their relationship, highlighting the gender discrimination that still exists in our society. The film portrays how men are conditioned to believe that women's work is less valuable and that they should be responsible for the household's financial stability.

The tension of drudgery and desperation is palpable throughout the film, making it a poignant watch. The film's first half builds the world at its own pace, and the second part takes things forward slowly, even dragging in many instances. Several sequences seem slightly force-fitted, such as an activist holding a protest, and a man of a different faith being targeted.

Despite its flaws, Zwigato packs a punch with its relatable story and fine performances. The cinematography by Ranjan Palit masterfully depicts the commoner's world through the dingy bylanes of Bhubaneshwar where the story is set. Skipping Odisha's majestic structures and exotic beauty adds to the film's realism.

Shahana Goswami is excellent in her role as Pratima, portraying her character's nuances with finesse. Kapil Sharma, usually known for his comedic roles, delivers a restrained performance as Manas. He portrays his character's frustration and desperation effectively, making the viewer empathize with his situation.

The film's ending, however, seems abrupt and unconvincing. The director seems to be in a hurry to wrap up the story, which leaves the viewer with a sense of incompleteness. The film could have benefited from a more nuanced and thought-provoking conclusion.

In conclusion, Zwigato is a film that sheds light on the struggles of the labour class in today's world. It does so by portraying the daily hustle and bustle of a food delivery worker, Manas, who tries to make ends meet for his family. The film also touches upon issues such as class and gender discrimination, exploitation by app companies, and the desperate need for adequate employment opportunities.

Nandita Das and co-writer Samir Patil have done a commendable job of presenting a relatable story, and cinematographer Ranjan Palit has effectively captured the dingy bylanes of Bhubaneshwar where the film is set. The performances by Shahana Goswami and Kapil Sharma are also noteworthy, with the latter impressing with his nuanced portrayal of a struggling worker.

However, the film's slow pace and at times forced subplots might test the viewer's patience. The simplistic and abrupt ending also feels unconvincing, leaving the viewer wanting for more. Despite its flaws, Zwigato is a film worth watching for its intent and the empathy it evokes for those who work in menial jobs to make our lives easier. It is a reminder to us all to appreciate and respect the people who work hard behind the scenes to keep our lives moving smoothly.