Exploring Nostalgia in Rohan Mapuskar's 'April May 99'
A Glimpse into Shrivardhan's Summer of 1999
In the summer of 1999, the coastal town of Shrivardhan in Maharashtra appears to be just like any other. As the school year wraps up, friends Krishna (Aaryan Menghji), Prasad (Shreyas Thorat), and Siddhesh (Manthan Kanekar) look forward to a carefree break.
However, a looming change is on the horizon. Prasad's father, Suresh, plans to send him to Mumbai to enhance his English skills, which Krishna and Siddhesh perceive as a betrayal.
The arrival of Jaie (Sajiri Joshi), a neighbor's niece visiting Shrivardhan with a camera and a keen interest in the local culture, complicates matters. Her presence stirs unexpected emotions among the boys.
A Charming Directorial Debut
Rohan Mapuskar's Marathi film, April May 99, now showing in theaters with English subtitles, offers a delightful narrative that juxtaposes the comforts of the past with the challenges of modernity. The screenplay, co-written with Kunal Pawar and Bimal Oberoi, skillfully portrays seemingly trivial incidents that escalate into significant dilemmas for the impressionable boys.
Much of the film's humor arises from the boys' frustration as they navigate their feelings and the challenges posed by Jaie's presence.
A Unique Coming-of-Age Story
Unlike typical coming-of-age films, April May 99 approaches themes of puberty and adolescent relationships with a gentle touch. The boys, portrayed as younger than their actual age, are treated with a sense of innocence by the adults around them.
The film's setting in 1999 allows for a narrative that embraces purity and freedom from the anxieties that would soon follow in the new millennium.
Capturing the Essence of Childhood
Rather than focusing on adolescent desires, the film reflects on the nostalgia of simpler times. Mapuskar's adept character development and the picturesque small-town backdrop lend credibility to this idyllic portrayal.
The chemistry among the lead actors, who share a lifelong bond, is palpable. Sajiri Joshi, in her debut role, serves as a calming influence amidst the boys' emotional turmoil, while the adult cast adds depth and humor without overshadowing the young performers.
A Journey Back in Time
April May 99 transports viewers back to the carefree days of childhood vacations, where seemingly insignificant moments hold deeper meanings. The film beautifully illustrates how these holidays contribute to personal growth, encapsulated in the charming phrase, 'I am thank you.' The concluding scenes strike a perfect balance between childhood and the onset of adulthood.
The stunning visuals captured by Apoorva Shaligram evoke nostalgia for unspoiled landscapes, while the film's 129-minute runtime is complemented by a memorable soundtrack from Rohan-Rohan, featuring the soulful track Mann Jaie, sung by Sonu Nigam.