Dev Patel’s Monkey Man is a fine Tale of Power and Politics

HI INDIA NEWS DESK
Dev Patel made his directorial debut with Monkey Man which just hit the theatres. For anyone who may have grown up watching Bollywood films of the 80’s the plot is somewhat similar – a street wise young man seeking to take revenge for his mother’s death. Add the Indian emotional family revenge angle to the master theatrics of Hollywood and you do have an engaging, part-thrilling, and entertaining movie that is bound to keep you glued to your seats. While there is blood and gore and family drama do not be mistaken to think that it is all what Monkey Man has to offer. Patel’s classy debut venture also packs in political critique. The film plays an interesting commentary on the political situation in India, the growing authoritarianism in India and how politics engages religion and police to stay relevant and in control.

The main character “Kid” seeks to avenge his mother who is brutally killed by a police officer. The film shows how power and politics play a role in the lives of the people, sometimes not for a very good effect.

The film wins for its excellent cinematography and dialogue delivery. It’s a great watch to understand how power dynamics affect humans.