FILM REVIEW: The Diary of West Bengal is a missed opportunity in storytelling
The film The Diary of West Bengal, directed by Sanoj Mishra, attempts to tackle the sensitive issue of Rohingya Muslims and Bangladeshi extremists in West Bengal through the story of Suhasini (Arshin Mehta), a Hindu woman fleeing persecution. However, the execution falls flat, leading to a disappointing viewing experience.
While the premise holds potential, the screenplay is riddled with inconsistencies and lacks depth. The character motivations are often unclear, particularly regarding why Suhasini trusts Prateek (Yajur Marwah), who is later revealed to have a hidden identity. The film’s dialogue occasionally shines, but overall, it fails to engage the audience emotionally or intellectually.
The direction is fair, but the film suffers from a lack of entertainment value and a heavy-handed approach to its themes. The background music and cinematography are average, and the action sequences lack excitement. As a result, The Diary of West Bengal is likely to go unnoticed, except in niche circles.
In summary, the film’s attempt to address a critical social issue is undermined by a weak script and uninspired performances, making it a forgettable addition to the cinematic scene.