‘Mili’ Movie Review: A Father-daughter story and a commentary on internalized casteism

On the lines of Rajkummar Rao’s ‘Trapped’, and James Franco’s ‘127 Hours’, Janhvi Kapoor’s new survival drama continues to trend at #1 on Netflix. Almost a week after its release on Netflix, ‘Mili’ has maintained its position on Netflix’s trending list. Directed by Mathukutty Xavier, the film is produced by Boney Kapoor with music by A.R. Rahman.

‘Mili’ is the story of a young ambitious girl, a trained nurse who was studying to go to Canada for better job prospects. After losing her mother, it is evident that Mili like any other girl in her situation took on herself to take care of the household. Unlike most depictions of girls in this situation, Janhvi Kapoor’s Mili not only takes care of her father’s health but also starts thinking of their financial well-being. Based in Dehradun, Mili starts working at a local eatery to help her father out financially while preparing for her IELTS exams. And that’s where the problem starts.

One night Mili finds herself trapped in the restaurant’s freezer, and has no way out. Mili’s story of survival is not just a survival drama like ‘Trapped’ or ‘127 Hours’. But, rather it is the story of a father’s love, an intercaste relationship and the laid-back attitude of the police in times of crisis. Beautifully narrated, Janhvi Kapoor exceeds expectations through her acting. Despite her real-life persona hindering our subconscious believability in her on-screen characters, she made us feel for Mili. And everyone rooted for her to find her way out.

The brilliant Manoj Pahwa, playing Mili’s father added to the film’s emotional depth. Looking and behaving like all of our fathers Pahwa made us laugh, smile and even cry. His presence convinced us of the importance of Mili’s survival. Pahwa’s role in the film is proof of how important supporting characters are in order to strengthen the protagonist.

Sunny Kaushal’s chemistry with Janhvi Kapoor was noteworthy. They looked good together and fit excellently in their individual characters. Kaushal’s character made this survival drama a commentary on the casteism that still exists in small towns and even in urban spaces. Also how subtle this existing prejudice is and how it plays out in times of crisis. The depiction of the police’s pace of action is not new in films, but the portrayal of moral character shown by some officers compared to others is new and a remarkable touch.

All the social commentary included, the one aspect of the film that didn’t settle with us was the end. There is a difference between survival dramas starring James Franco and Rajkummar Rao, and the one starring Janhvi Kapoor. Most survival dramas end with characters finding their way out on their own. But the one pricking fact about Mili is that much like the majority of female characters she had to get rescued. A subtle disparity indeed, but does make one think.

‘Mili’ is a touching story of a father-daughter relationship and Mili’s strength is a testament to the grit daughters have. A courage that always exceeds expectations. Mili is now available on Netflix, must-watch!