This film is a moody and evocative portrait of a physically and emotionally isolated man who is mourning the death of his only son, his wife, and his formerly lavish way of life. The distinguished Bengali actor Chhabi Bisw... more »as gives an outstanding performance as Huzar Biswambhar Roy, a once-happy and prosperous landowner who used to spend his evenings in the music room (or jalsaghar) of his magnificent palace. There he would sit on priceless carpets under magnificent chandeliers and admire himself in a large ornate mirror as he watched the best Bengali dancers and musicians perform. Huzur is reminded of this opulent past by a tendril of music emanating from the house of his annoying nouveau riche neighbor, Mahim Ganguly (Gangapanda Basu) who likes to throw his good fortune in Huzar's face. Ganguly hosts the kind of lavish parties Huzar used to host, while Huzar's music room sits as empty and cold as his wounded heart. Finally, unable to stop Ganguly's taunting, Huzar uses his last 500 rupees to reopen the jalsaghar for one more glorious performance. The loyal manager of his estate, Taraprasanna (Tulsi Lahiri) tries to stop him, but it's hopeless. This film, made in 1958, is an excellent example of Satyajit Ray's ability to evoke mood. The desolation of the crumbling palace is the perfect visual metaphor for Huzar's inner state. For fans of Ray's work, this is a must-see example. --Luanne Brown« less
Actor:Chhabi Biswas Director:Satyajit Ray Genres:Indie & Art House, Drama Sub-Genres:Indie & Art House, Drama Studio:Criterion Collection Format:Blu-ray - Full Screen,Widescreen - Subtitled DVD Release Date: 07/19/2011 Original Release Date: 01/01/1958 Theatrical Release Date: 00/00/1958 Release Year: 2011 Run Time: 1hr 40min Screens: Full Screen,Widescreen Number of Discs: 1 SwapaDVD Credits: 2 Total Copies: 0 Members Wishing: 6 Edition: Criterion Collection MPAA Rating: Unrated Languages:English Subtitles:English