Filmmaker Ram Reddy's 'Jugnuma – The Fable' offers a unique cinematic experience, taking viewers beyond ordinary entertainment into deeper realms. The film's pace is slow, but each scene adds a new dimension to the narrative.
- Film Review: Jugnuma - The Fable
- Star Rating: 3.5/5
- Release Date: 12/09/2025
- Director: Ram Reddy
- Genre: Fantasy Drama
Entertainment: The film 'Jugnuma – The Fable', featuring a stellar cast including Manoj Bajpayee, Priyanka Bose, Hiral Sidhu, and Deepak Dobriyal, has now been released in theatres. Director Ram Reddy's film is a departure from mainstream entertainers and offers a poignant experience for true cinephiles.
This film doesn't just show you a story; it compels you to reflect. If you view cinema as an art form and seek to understand the emotional subtext behind a narrative, this film is crafted for you.
Story: The Quest for a Soul Born in the Lap of the Himalayas
The film's story begins in the valleys of the Himalayas in 1989. Dev (Manoj Bajpayee) is a man of quiet disposition, the owner of orchards inherited from his grandfather. He has a beautiful home, a family – a wife, son, and daughter – everything. However, as the trees in his orchards begin to burn without any apparent reason, his peace of mind starts to waver. Gradually, his mental balance deteriorates, and he begins to suspect everyone. This narrative slowly transforms into a search for Dev's soul.
Dev becomes increasingly detached from the outside world, confronting questions about his past, family, and roots. Ultimately, he comes to understand himself and makes the right decisions for his village and family. Both the beginning and end of the film are set in the lap of the Himalayas, lending a symbolic depth to the story – as if human struggle is intertwined with nature and the soul.
Technical Aspects: A Visual Poem
'Jugnuma''s best asset is its cinematic language. Ram Reddy has shot the film in the style of 16mm film, giving it a documentary-like feel. Every frame of the film feels like a beautiful painting. Sunil Ramkrishna Borkar is responsible for the camera work. Each scene is shot with such meticulous detail that viewers become immersed in the visuals. In one scene, Dev finds himself surrounded by fireflies – this moment is the film's most emotional highlight.
The film makes excellent use of real locations, local artists, and natural sounds, further enhancing the narrative's authenticity. The film is slow-paced, but its rhythm is so natural that it draws the audience into the story. The director has placed trust in the viewers and hasn't narrated the story directly. Instead, the film brings everything together towards the end, forcing the audience to ponder what truly happened.
Performances: Acting that Melts into Characters
Manoj Bajpayee, stepping beyond his usual image, portrays Dev as a sensitive individual. The anxiety, fear, insecurity, and the gradual process of self-realization in his eyes are depicted so effortlessly that you begin to walk with Dev. Priyanka Bose, appearing as Dev's wife, has expressed her emotions with great depth. Her fear, anger, and helplessness feel very real.
Hiral Sidhu impresses in the role of Vanya. Her innocence and sensitivity add a new dimension to the film. This is her first major film, and her performance here is very impactful. Deepak Dobriyal plays Mohan, the orchard caretaker. Witnessing his emotional connection to the trees, you feel his pain. Tillotama Shome's dialogue delivery and acting have further strengthened the film. The presence of local artists has made the film even more realistic.
Why Watch 'Jugnuma'?
'Jugnuma – The Fable' is not a typical entertainer. It is an experience that demands patience and sensitivity. This film is for those viewers who understand and feel a story deeply. The film has slow scenes, but each one leaves an impact like a poem.
