Based on the popular Marathi language play of the same name, “Savita Damodar Paranjpe” is a psychological thriller narrating the story of a woman seeking revenge from a guy who ditched her. But the story has a little twist with supernatural elements.
It is a psychological thriller in which novelist Sharad’s wife Kusum shows strange medical complications that have affected their married life for the last eight years, even though they love each other a lot. While the family doctor is clueless about the medical condition, Sharad tries hard to try all kinds of medical treatments, but those so far have not brought any results.
Even when the family doctor suggests Sharad consult a psychiatrist, he rubbishes the suggestion. Desperate to bring Kusum out of this long trauma, Sharad calls a family friend Ashok – a palmistry expert, who was able to reveal the darker side of Kusum. During his session, Kusum reveals to be Savita Paranjpe.
Ashok feels that Kusum is possessed by Savita’s spirit, however, Sharad’s doctor friend believes this is a clear case of multiple personality disorder. This is the basic plotline of the film. Even though it looks very much simple and is mostly a case medical or supernatural story, like many Marathi films or plays, this one is also content based.
When his wife begins to exhibit alarming behavior, a husband tries to find whether she suffers from a personality disorder or something more sinister. The story of the film is based on a theatrical play “Savita Damodar Paranjpe” written by Shekhar Tamhane and performed widely in the 1980s that was inspired by the true events.
The fact that some regional Indian film industries are at least trying new subjects with great stories is certainly praiseworthy. A screen adaptation of a successful Marathi theatrical play, which itself is inspired by true events, this film is indeed a good one to watch – not just because of the suspense elements but for some wonderful acting talents.
“Savita Damodar Paranjpe” has some great moments although the narration or the whole structure of the movie could have been a little different to keep the suspense alive for a long. While the first half of the film was very interesting and engaging, the second half becomes a little dull with an early revelation of most of the suspense elements.
Yes, the makers have rightly balanced the movie with elements of psychological analysis with backstory, as well as the present-time supernatural possibilities. It adds some creepy elements wherever required, but never really overdoes those things. This is a plus point, as the sole idea to allow viewers to think on both sides is successfully implemented.
Without a doubt, we must say that “Savita Damodar Paranjpe” is a nicely written psychological thriller coming out of the Indian film industry. In the end, the story driven by some great performances makes this worth a watch.
Watch the movie trailer for “Savita Damodar Paranjpe”
Starring: Subodh Bhave, Trupti Toradmal, Rakesh Bapat, Pallavi Patil, Angad Mhaskar, Hemangi Kavi, Savita Prabhune, and Sandeep Avchat.
Genres: Indian Films, Marathi-Language Films, Horror Films, Supernatural Horror Films
Director: Swapna Waghmare Joshi
Depending on your geolocation, “Savita Damodar Paranjpe” might be available for streaming on any of the streaming platforms. Please check out the below section.