For Nikita Dutta, the latest cinematic venture, ‘Dange’, is a project close to her heart, and the reason is clear – the intrinsic admiration for the film’s director, Bejoy Nambiar. The moment the script and the opportunity to act under Nambiar’s guidance emerged, Dutta embraced it with passionate enthusiasm. “I have always been a fan of Bejoy sir’s work, especially following his success with ‘Shaitan’ in 2011. I remember being mesmerized by his artistic vision while I was still in high school. One reading of ‘Dange’s script, and I didn’t hesitate to join the cast,” Dutta recalls, her face lit with a gratified smile. She basks in the excitement of her work alongside co-stars Harshvardhan Rane and Ehan Bhatt in this latest cinematic offering.
Bejoy Nambiar’s reputation precedes him. His approach to ‘Dange’ and its Tamil counterpart ‘Por’ has only augmented Dutta’s respect for the director. She likens Nambiar to a “one-man army”, highlighting the laborious and meticulous effort he invests in perfecting each scene. “Watching him work, the perfectionism, the commitment to capturing one right shot, and his ability to bring his imagination to reality is astonishing. Moreover, crafting a bilingual narrative, essentially creating two distinct films concurrently, is a testament to his unparalleled capabilities,” Dutta reflects on Nambiar’s meticulous directorial process.
In ‘Dange’, the plotline unfurls within the walls of a medical college and is driven by the intertwining lives of two friend groups. The film delves into the complex dynamics of friendship adorned with threads of intense rivalry. For Dutta, portraying Rishika was a compelling journey into unfamiliar terrain, as the character’s attributes starkly contrast with her personality. “Typically, an actor finds common ground with their characters, infusing personal nuances into their roles. However, with Rishika, it was the polarity of our traits that captivated me. Embodying someone who stands as the antithesis to myself was a novel, yet exhilarating challenge,” she divulges. This role marks a bold departure from the parts she essayed in acclaimed movies like ‘Gold’ (2018), ‘Kabir Singh’ (2019), and ‘The Big Bull’ (2021).
This cinematic exploration of camaraderie and conflict, through ‘Dange,’ promises to offer audiences a potent concoction of emotion and engagement. With Dutta at the forefront, the audience can anticipate a refreshing portrayal of resilience and depth. Her dedication to Rishika—and the sheer divergence from her own essence—is set to not only impress but also reinforces the transformative power of cinema.
However, ‘Dange’ is more than just an acting showcase for Dutta. It is a film that stands out for its narrative technique, symbolizing Bejoy Nambiar’s innovative storytelling, which refuses to be hemmed in by language barriers or cultural singularities. Dutta’s collaboration with Nambiar serves as a bright beacon of the magic that emerges when a visionary filmmaker and a dedicated actress come together. It’s a synergy that promises to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary cinema.
Nikita Dutta’s journey with ‘Dange’ marks the emergence of gripping, nuanced performances in mainstream Indian cinema, and a celebration of a director’s meticulous craft. As Dutta lights up the screen with her presence, and Bejoy Nambiar orchestrates the behind-the-scenes symphony, the movie is poised to hit a resonant chord with viewers, illustrating that at the intersection of passion and talent, true cinematic brilliance reigns supreme.
