Anurag Basu’s latest film, “Metro… In Dino,” once again showcases his signature chaotic yet musical storytelling, boldly defying traditional box office conventions.
Anurag Basu’s Unique Filmmaking Style
For director Anurag Basu, chaos isn’t just a byproduct; it’s his chosen language. His films are often described as a form of “madness,” not uncontrolled, but a deliberate method to cut through the noise of modern life.
He builds his narratives from this core, often pushing boundaries until they seem to fray. Yet, this very approach defines his distinct cinematic voice.
“Metro… In Dino”: A Return to Musical Roots
In “Metro… In Dino,” Basu reunites with long-time collaborator Pritam, bringing back the musical essence seen in their iconic “Life in a… Metro.” This film isn’t just driven by songs; it’s fundamentally shaped by them.
Despite the commercial challenges of their previous film, “Jagga Jasoos,” Basu and Pritam embrace their unique vision, turning a mainstream production into a canvas for their unruly creativity. They resist formula, opting for pure invention.
A Narrative Without Conventional Rules
Basu famously disregards cinematic conventions. In “Metro… In Dino,” continuity, spatial logic, and time itself are tossed aside. A rooftop musical performance seamlessly transitions into the introduction of multiple characters, each breaking the fourth wall and singing their stories directly to the audience.
The film leaps effortlessly between cities like Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Mumbai, weaving together diverse characters and their personal struggles amidst vibrant Holi celebrations and quiet moments of grief. There’s no geographical logic, and none is required, as emotion takes precedence over form.
When Reality Bends to Music
The film often feels like a Broadway musical, where reality itself shifts with the rhythm. Sets rearrange, scenes flow from busy streets to corporate alleys, and characters seem to sky-dive from highways into wedding ceremonies.
It’s Basu’s world, where youngsters in cafes croon about dating adventures, and old lovers mourn lost pasts through song. This messy, unpredictable style mirrors life itself, much like the unpredictable journey of falling in love.
The Cost of Compromise in Bollywood
While the film excels in its early inventiveness, it unfortunately loses some steam in the second half. The vibrant musicality fades, and characters begin to make unconvincing choices. It feels as if Basu was prompted to hold back, to rein in his signature indulgence.
This shift highlights a broader issue in contemporary Bollywood, where commercial considerations from big studios can inadvertently stifle artistic vision. When Basu is made to pause, his unique strength—his ability to truly “hear the music” in his narratives—is diminished.
- Anurag Basu’s filmmaking is defined by “chaos” and “madness,” with music at its core.
- “Metro… In Dino” is a pure musical that defies traditional cinematic conventions like continuity and spatial logic.
- The film’s initial inventive spirit wanes in its latter half, possibly due to external commercial pressures.
Ultimately, Basu’s strength lies in his uninhibited style, a quality that sets him apart in the industry.
