Songs of Forgotten Trees review: This sensitive, ambiguous drama of female intimacy in Mumbai is a gentle exploration of two women's lives in a cramped apartment. Directed by Anuparna Roy, the film stars Naaz Shaikh and Sumi Baghel as roommates who develop a close bond.
Plot Overview
The story unfolds in a tiny, crumbling Mumbai apartment where Thooya, an actor and part-time sex worker, rents a room to Shweta, an IT call centre employee. Their initial awkwardness gradually transforms into a deep connection, though the film's final scene leaves their relationship ambiguous. Thooya is haunted by a school friend married off at 13, while Shweta searches for a husband via a matchmaking site.
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Themes of Female Intimacy and Male Entitlement
The film subtly critiques male entitlement through Thooya's exhausting clients and Shweta's demanding IT customers. A key taxi scene highlights Thooya's cynical view of marriage, suggesting that Shweta would face similar sexual availability. The cramped apartment symbolizes societal constraints, emphasizing how female intimacy flourishes in confined spaces.
Performance and Direction
Naaz Shaikh delivers a nuanced performance as Thooya, balancing vulnerability and defiance. Sumi Baghel's Shweta is equally compelling, portraying a woman torn between tradition and newfound feelings. First-time director Anuparna Roy shows promise with a restrained, observational style that captures fleeting moments of connection.
Comparison Table: Thooya vs Shweta
| Aspect | Thooya | Shweta |
|---|---|---|
| Occupation | Actor and part-time sex worker | IT call centre employee |
| Attitude to sex work | Accepts it as a means of survival | Disapproves initially |
| Relationship with men | Exhausted by clients' demands | Seeks a husband via matchmaking |
| Emotional arc | Haunted by past trauma | Grapples with societal expectations |
Key Takeaways
- Sensitive portrayal of female intimacy without explicit labels.
- Critique of male entitlement in both sex work and corporate settings.
- Ambiguous ending invites multiple interpretations.
- Strong performances from the lead actresses.
- First-time director shows a distinct voice.
FAQ
What is Songs of Forgotten Trees about?
It's a drama about two women in Mumbai who become roommates and develop a close, possibly romantic, bond while navigating societal pressures and male entitlement.
Who directed Songs of Forgotten Trees?
The film is directed by Anuparna Roy, making her feature debut.
When is Songs of Forgotten Trees released in UK cinemas?
The film is set for UK cinema release on 14 August.
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