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“Shontaan,” the much-anticipated Bengali film directed by Raj Chakraborty, has garnered significant attention since its theatrical release on December 20, 2024. Starring veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty alongside Subhasree Ganguly and Ritwick Chakraborty, the film delves into the poignant narrative of familial bonds and societal challenges.
Plot Overview
“Shontaan” narrates the emotional journey of an elderly couple, portrayed by Mithun Chakraborty and Anashua Majumdar, who face abandonment by their only son, played by Ritwick Chakraborty. The storyline intensifies as the father seeks justice through the legal system, with Subhasree Ganguly’s character, Indrani Sen, an earnest lawyer, championing their cause. The film explores themes of familial duty, societal neglect, and the quest for justice, resonating deeply with audiences.
Theatrical Release and Reception
Released on December 20, 2024, “Shontaan” entered theaters alongside other notable Bengali films, including Dev’s “Khadaan” and Tota Roy Choudhury’s “Chaalchitro: The Frame Fatale.” Despite the competitive landscape, “Shontaan” received a warm reception from both audiences and critics, who praised its compelling narrative and powerful performances. The film’s box office performance reflected this positive reception, with a steady increase in collections over its opening weekend.
Box Office Performance
According to reports, “Shontaan” opened with a collection of ₹11 lakhs on its first day. The positive word-of-mouth contributed to increased earnings over the weekend, with the film grossing ₹18 lakhs on the second day and ₹31 lakhs on the third day, bringing the total to ₹60 lakhs by the end of the first weekend. However, like many films, it experienced a drop on the first Monday, earning ₹12 lakhs, which brought the total to ₹72 lakhs over four days.
OTT Release Details
As the film continues its theatrical run, anticipation builds for its digital release. Produced by Shree Venkatesh Films (SVF), “Shontaan” is slated for an OTT release in the last week of January 2025. While the exact date remains unconfirmed, industry insiders suggest that, given SVF’s ownership of the Bengali streaming platform Hoichoi, “Shontaan” will likely premiere there. An official announcement regarding the OTT release date and platform is awaited.
Cast and Crew
- Mithun Chakraborty as the devoted father
- Anashua Majumdar as the mother
- Ritwick Chakraborty as the estranged son
- Subhasree Ganguly as Indrani Sen, the lawyer
- Kharaj Mukherjee in a supporting role
- Sohini Sengupta in a supporting role
Directed by Raj Chakraborty, the film’s screenplay is crafted by Anuja Chattopadhyay, Soumyabrata Rakhsit, and Sreejib, with production by SVF Entertainment.
Critical Acclaim
Critics have lauded “Shontaan” for its heartfelt portrayal of familial relationships and societal issues. Mithun Chakraborty’s performance has been particularly highlighted for its depth and authenticity, marking a significant return to Bengali cinema for the veteran actor. Subhasree Ganguly’s portrayal of a determined lawyer has also received commendation for its nuance and strength.
Audience Reception
Audiences have resonated with the film’s emotional depth and relatable storyline. The depiction of an elderly couple’s struggle for justice against familial neglect has struck a chord, prompting discussions on societal responsibilities towards the elderly. The film’s success is attributed to its strong performances, compelling narrative, and the universal relevance of its themes.
Conclusion
“Shontaan” stands out as a significant addition to Bengali cinema, offering a narrative that is both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging. As it continues to perform well in theaters, the upcoming OTT release is highly anticipated, promising to reach a broader audience. Viewers are encouraged to stay tuned for official announcements regarding the exact release date and platform to experience this compelling film.
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