MOVIE REVIEW
Marching in the Dark
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 48m
Director(s): Kinshuk Surjan
Language: Marathi with English subtitles
Where To Watch: world premiere at the 2024 CPH:DOX Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: As the opening scenes of MARCHING IN THE DARK unfold, you're immediately plunged into a world where despair is a common thread, but hope is the underlying theme. Set amidst the lush yet challenging landscapes of Maharashtra, this film offers a gripping look into the lives of widows wrestling with the aftermath of the untimely loss of their husbands. More than just a narrative on personal loss, it's a rallying cry for empowerment and solidarity that genuinely captures the audience's heart. While it expertly navigates the complexities of rural India's agricultural and societal hurdles, its characters' collective strength and unity shine through, making it a film worth your time, albeit with some missed opportunities for deeper exploration.

Center stage in this vibrant saga is Sanjivani, whose transformation from a grieving widow to a community leader symbolizes the film's essence: overcoming adversity through collective action. Establishing a support group, shepherded by a compassionate psychologist, transforms from a mere coping mechanism into a formidable platform for change. This group's journey from shared suffering to challenging the “norm” is a testament to the film’s core message: there's strength in numbers, and women can move mountains together.

But as MARCHING IN THE DARK wades through these emotional waters, it occasionally misses the mark in diving into the deeper end of the social predicament it seeks to address. While it shines a spotlight on the agricultural distress and the ripple effects of such on these women's lives, viewers may find themselves craving a deeper analysis of the systemic challenges at play. Moreover, the film's celebration of community and collective action, though heartwarming, could benefit from a closer look at the individual stories within the support group to add a more personal touch to the broader narrative. I wanted to see more, and with a runtime just shy of two hours, that’s saying something. These stories are filled with passion and heart; I wanted to see more of the why.

Despite these narrative gaps, MARCHING IN THE DARK stands out as a significant piece of cinema that brings critical social issues to the forefront while celebrating its subjects' resilience and indomitable spirit. It serves as a mirror to the stark realities faced by many in rural India, yet also opens a window to the potential for change when empathy, solidarity, and bravery pave the way. What might the future hold if these trends continue on their upward path?

MARCHING IN THE DARK is a cinematic homage to the power of standing together and the transformative effect of rallying against adversity. It reminds viewers that there is always a glimmer of hope, even in the darkest times, and that collective action can spark significant change. While it might not offer an exhaustive exploration of its themes, it sets the stage for meaningful dialogue on pertinent issues. So, settle in for a journey to the heart of Maharashtra, where the battle against despair transforms into an empowering march toward a brighter future. This film entertains and enlightens, securing its place as a noteworthy watch.

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[photo courtesy of CLIN D'OEIL FILMS, NOCUT FILM COLLECTIVE, SNG FILM]

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