Exploring Anurag Kashyap's 'Choked': A Deep Dive into Financial Struggles and Redemption
Overview of 'Choked: Paisa Bolta Hai'
Anurag Kashyap's film, Choked: Paisa Bolta Hai, presents a unique kitchen-sink drama. This Netflix original features a bank teller who finds wads of cash surfacing through her kitchen drain, symbolizing both fortune and burden amidst her financial struggles.
Set against the backdrop of India's 2016 demonetisation, the story unfolds in Mumbai, a city where business never truly halts, except during the pandemic.
Choked kicks off in October 2016, just before the significant economic event that continues to impact India. The protagonist, Sarita (played by Saiyami Kher), is striving to maintain stability in her life while her husband Sushant (Roshan Mathew) struggles with job instability and debt. Sarita's job is the family's lifeline, yet her frustration with her husband's lack of direction is palpable.
Themes of Failure and Redemption
The screenplay by Nihit Bhave delves into the theme of male failure, both in government and domestic spheres. A tense argument between Sarita and Sushant unfolds at night, with their young son sleeping nearby, highlighting their strained relationship. Sushant's inability to communicate effectively adds to the tension, as he often resorts to cursing in Tamil despite his Indian surname, Pillai.
As Sarita begins to access the unexpected cash flow, the prime minister's televised address promises to eradicate the black economy. However, Sarita, who faces long lines and anxious customers at the bank, remains skeptical of these claims.
Character Dynamics and Performances
A standout moment occurs with Sarita's neighbor, Sharvani (Amruta Subhash), who reacts to the demonetisation news with manic laughter and incoherent speech, showcasing the film's emotional depth. This scene exemplifies the film's potential, but it also marks a turning point where the narrative begins to lose focus.
As the film progresses, it explores the corrupting influence of money and the resilience of women in financial crises, alongside Sushant's journey toward redemption. However, the connection to demonetisation feels underexplored, serving primarily as a backdrop for a mild critique of the government.
The film intertwines Sarita's financial struggles with her aspirations of becoming a singer, using the metaphor of being stifled both literally and figuratively. The sound of cash surfacing from the drain evokes a sense of foreboding, akin to a lurking monster.
Strong Performances Shine Through
Choked is bolstered by impressive performances. Saiyami Kher, who debuted in the Telugu film Rey in 2015, finally receives a substantial role that showcases her talent. Roshan Mathew effectively portrays an unsympathetic character caught in indecision, while Amruta Subhash excels as Sharvari, balancing her concerns about a family wedding with her penchant for gossip. The actors maintain their focus even as the plot becomes increasingly chaotic, attempting to connect the film's central themes.