A Mesmerizing Blend of Realism and Fantasy

In the heart of the Himalayas, Jugnuma – The Fable, directed by Raam Reddy, unfolds like a dream woven from the threads of reality and magic. Released on September 12, 2025, this visually arresting film, shot on 16mm, transports viewers to a serene yet enigmatic world set in 1989. The grainy texture of the film stock enhances its nostalgic charm, creating an authentic, almost tangible sense of a bygone era. At its core, the movie is a poetic exploration of human fragility, environmental concerns, and the interplay between the mundane and the fantastical, with Manoj Bajpayee delivering a performance that anchors the narrative with profound depth.

Manoj Bajpayee: The Heart of the Story

Manoj Bajpayee plays Dev, a prosperous orchard owner whose life is upended by mysterious fires that threaten his sprawling estate. His portrayal is a masterclass in subtlety, conveying a spectrum of emotions—from quiet authority to simmering paranoia—with minimal dialogue. Bajpayee’s ability to embody Dev’s internal conflict, as he grapples with suspicion and the weight of his colonial legacy, is nothing short of captivating. His performance is the emotional pulse of the film, drawing viewers into Dev’s unraveling world while leaving room for introspection. Supported by a stellar cast, including Deepak Dobriyal as the estate manager Mohan and Priyanka Bose as Dev’s nurturing wife Nandini, Bajpayee shines as the linchpin of this evocative tale.

Raam Reddy’s Visionary Storytelling

Raam Reddy, known for his acclaimed debut Thithi, crafts Jugnuma as a meditative journey that refuses to spoon-feed its audience. The film’s narrative, enriched by Varun Grover’s poignant Hindi dialogue, unfolds with deliberate pacing, inviting viewers to savor its layered symbolism. Reddy’s use of magical realism—most notably in scenes where Dev takes flight with handmade wings—blends seamlessly with the grounded reality of the Himalayan setting. The 16mm cinematography by Sunil Borkar adds a painterly quality, with each frame evoking a sense of wonder and unease. The film’s sound design, crafted by Nithin Lukose, further amplifies its atmospheric allure, making every rustle and whisper integral to the storytelling.

Themes That Resonate Deeply

Jugnuma – The Fable is more than a visual spectacle; it’s a thoughtful commentary on class divides, ecological decay, and the human tendency to seek control over nature. The mysterious fires that engulf Dev’s orchard serve as a metaphor for consequences that spiral beyond human understanding, prompting questions about ownership, privilege, and harmony with the environment. While the film’s slow-burn pace may not appeal to those seeking instant gratification, its ambiguity is its strength, lingering in the mind like a half-remembered dream.

A Cinematic Experience Worth Savoring

Jugnuma – The Fable is a testament to the power of understated storytelling and artistic vision. Manoj Bajpayee’s spellbinding performance, coupled with Raam Reddy’s deft direction and the film’s breathtaking 16mm visuals, makes it a must-watch for lovers of art cinema. It’s a film that doesn’t demand attention but earns it, offering a rich, reflective experience for those willing to immerse themselves in its quiet magic.

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