Souvik Sur

MAID on Netflix, is more about a self-centred, emotionally perturbed,indecisive 90's kid than anything else, especially the victim narrative that it wishes to tap on. There's just so much of it that is wrong,yet,is the harsh reality of many people around us. Alex, who loves to play the victim card all along is in constant pursuit of happines. Although she masquerades her ambitions as 'care' for her toddler, yet there are times when she reeks of selfishness. To begin with, she hails from a working class background with her husband(partner) struggling hard to make ends meet. There are times (although just twice in the 500 minutes long series) when he loses his mind and throws stuffs in the air that apparently scares Alex and she chooses to walk out of their home with her 3 yo daughter. And thus begins her quest which after meandering through several alleys, takes her to a happy ending. But what is disturbing is how she uses the woman card to often make false accusations against her partner, enjoys governmental aids, trashes people from whom she repeatedly seeks favours and also, emotionally exploits her very own partner whenever she wants. She tries hard to make it appear like she's walking the extra mile for her daughter, but deep down we all realise that its her attempt to fight her very own monsters of a disturbed childhood and achieving her own goals in life. MAID makes you question Alex's integrity, but hey, aren't we all a little bit crooked to suit our needs? Well crafted storyline, beautiful shots and hyper realistic portrayal of the rarely discussed American poverty is what makes this otherwise mundane series enjoyable and fit for consumption.

The film succeeds in making you feel the angst that Shaurya is going through. Though closely similar to 'The Snare' in aspects more than one, yet the different climax and the very fact that its not attributed to the supernatural,is what helps it to end up with a good impression. Superb acting by Rao... a must watch for those lazy weekends with nothing better to do.

Acting: 5/5 Plot: 3/5 Overall: 4/5 Well first let me clarify that just like any other movies ; the timelines,cultural representations and background of the Bengal connection in the movie is greatly flawed. Yet, as an audience and with my willing suspension of disbelief, I loved every moment of the movie. Right from the boyish charm of Bani, to the dainty elegance of Pallavi and everyone else , is so beautifully managed. The story is interesting though not necessarily unique. What I loved the most is the simplicity with which the story has been narrated. Jishu,Sree Ghatak have done well. In short, worth spending 2.5 hours on Netflix.

Beautiful movie, completely justifying the title "Bollywood's first female super star" normally attributed to the deceased great actress. Sridevi has done complete justice to her role, in all aspects..from a caring teacher , to being a wife, a friend and most importantly, a mother. All other actors have done their parts brilliantly, and this is what makes the movie a must watch.