Review: Boong: Utterly Captivating!

Indian films from the North East are gradually gaining recognition for their unique storytelling and rich cultural representation. These films often focus on themes such as identity, community life, folklore and contemporary social issues. Movies from the region are increasingly being screened at international film festivals and winning awards. One such film is the #Manipuri movie Boong, which has recently won a prestigious BAFTA Award. Made with complete sincerity, the film oozes innocence in every frame and touches upon many aspects of life in the North-Eastern states.

In Manipur, a young school-going boy, Boong (Gugun Kipgen), stays with his mother Mandakini (Bala Hijam). His father, J. Joykumar Singh (Hamom Sadananda), has been away from home to work in Moreh, a border town in Manipur close to Myanmar. Boong misses his father, and his mother too longs for her husband’s return, even if only briefly. To bring happiness into his mother’s life, Boong ventures out to Moreh with his best friend Raju (Angom Sanamatum), whose father (Vikram Kochar) is involved in family business in Manipur. The premise of the story revolves around these two young boys’ efforts to locate Boong’s father.

Writer-director Lakshmipriya Devi’s screenplay tugs at the heartstrings and also makes you laugh at many moments. The subtext of the movie reflects the prevailing political and social realities without making a direct comment. The lead character’s innocence spreads throughout the film, making it truly endearing. The climax is also heart-wrenching. Child artist Gugun Kipgen has lived the role and is totally convincing. His innocence is captivating, and he expresses a variety of emotions with ease. Bala Hijam has done a wonderful job and steals the heart. Others, including Vikram Kochar, lend strong support.

Boong is utterly captivating and is strongly recommended to watch it on big screen.

Rating: ****

By Keerti Kadam