Indian cinema has had a transition post the era of content-driven movies. And OTT platforms have led this revolution. When Netflix launched the trailer for Bhoomi Pednekar starrer, 'Bhakshak', the movie managed to create a buzz as one of the front-runners in the year's exceptional content category.
Inspired by real-life events in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, "Bhakshak" explores the sensitive topic of child abuse. The film explores the brutal reality of a society where culprits are committing crimes in the open, while their victims live in silence.
Led by young journalist Vaishali Singh (played by Bhumi Pednekar) and her photographer Bhaskar Sinha, the story unfolds as they uncover the shocking truth about the girls' home in Monawalpur. Their investigation reveals the shocking truth, blowing the lid off the heinous crimes committed by Bansi Sahu and his accomplices.
Although Pednekar gives one of her best performances, the film's heavy setting and morose background sometimes overshadow her impact. The brief emphasis on Vaishali's relationships like her family's attempts to get her married feels unnecessary and drags out the story. Additionally, the film's tendency to preach to the audience rather than convey its message completely weakens it.
Overall, "Bhakshak" presents a compelling narrative of the dysfunctional body of law, the broken fabric of the Indian society that abets child abuse and the role that journalists play as they try to find the truth.
The basic premise of the film is to create awareness of child sexual abuse. While the film delivers on its intent, the plot remains lost in translation.
