“Reel Star” Coming This Diwali!

The teaser of the #Marathifilm Reel Star, which portrays the dreams and struggles of ordinary people, is currently trending on social media.

Reel Star presents a powerful theme that highlights how the rich and elite exploit and disregard common people. By subverting conventional literary theories and cinematic concepts in Marathi cinema, the film aspires to usher in a new wave of storytelling.

The story revolves around Bhanuwadas, a street vendor, and his family, who strive to fulfill a modest dream. However, as unforeseen crises unfold, the narrative expands into the socio-political landscape of contemporary Maharashtra. Bhanuwadas’ journey is both a heartwarming family drama and an intense thriller, culminating in his fight for survival against forces determined to crush his aspirations.

Prasad Oak returns with another socially relevant subject, sharing the screen with Bhushan Manjule, brother of acclaimed filmmaker Nagraj Manjule, in a pivotal role. Oak plays a journalist investigating the mysterious death of a prominent judge, delivering one of the finest performances of his career.

The film also carries the distinction of being the first Marathi movie produced with the collaboration of technicians from the Malayalam film industry, celebrated for creating some of India’s best cinema. Alongside an ensemble of versatile Marathi actors, Reel Star stands out for its soul-stirring music. Renowned Malayalam composer Vinu Thomas, known for Drishyam, has set to tune the lyrics of Guru Thakur and Mandar Cholkar. The soundtrack features five memorable songs sung by Adarsh Shinde, Manish Rajgire, Rohit Raut, Abhijit Kosambi, Sayli Kamble, and Mukta Karandikar.

The cast includes Prasad Oak, Bhushan Manjule, Milind Shinde, Urrmela Jagtap, Kailash Waghmare, Anant Mahadevan, Swapnil Rajshekhar, Abhinav Patekar, Ruchira Jadhav, Tanishka Mansi, Master Arjun, and others. The film is penned by Sudhir Kulkarni, an associate of Nagraj Manjule, and directed by Simmi and Robin, who previously helmed the Hindi-Marathi film Anya.

Produced by Jose Abraham, Monica, and Nisheel Kambatty under the banners of J-Fives Entertainments, Phoenix Group, and Initiative Films, Reel Star is all set to release in theatres this Diwali.

By Keerti Kadam