“Aamis”, a critically acclaimed Assamese film directed by Bhaskar Hazarika, delves into the murky waters of human desires and the thin line between love and obsession. Released in 2019, the film quickly garnered attention for its bold narrative, exploring themes that are rarely touched upon in Indian cinema. With its unique storyline and intense performances, “Aamis” offers a cinematic experience that is as unsettling as it is captivating.
The Plot: Love, Food, and the Unthinkable
The story of “Aamis” revolves around the lives of two central characters, Nirmali and Sumon. Nirmali (played by Lima Das) is a middle-aged pediatrician leading a mundane and routine life in Guwahati. She is married, but her relationship with her husband has grown distant and devoid of passion. Enter Sumon (played by Arghadeep Baruah), a young Ph.D. student with an unconventional interest in studying the meat-eating habits of people in Northeast India.
Their paths cross when Sumon seeks Nirmali’s help in treating a friend’s illness. What starts as a casual acquaintance soon blossoms into a deep and complex bond, fueled by their shared love for exotic meats. Sumon introduces Nirmali to the world of unconventional meats, and they begin meeting regularly, indulging in culinary adventures that are as exotic as they are bizarre.
As their relationship deepens, so does their craving for more unusual meats. What begins as an innocent exploration of food gradually turns into an obsession, leading them down a dark and dangerous path. The film takes a shocking turn when the boundaries between food, love, and desire blur, revealing the terrifying extent of their obsession.
Themes and Symbolism: A Study of Repression and Desire
“Aamis” is a film rich in symbolism, using food as a metaphor for repressed desires and forbidden cravings. The film’s title, which translates to “meat” in Assamese, is symbolic of the carnal desires that lie at the heart of the story. The consumption of meat in the film goes beyond the literal, representing the characters’ suppressed emotions and the primal instincts that drive them.
Nirmali’s character is a study in repression. Trapped in a loveless marriage and a monotonous life, her encounters with Sumon awaken desires that she has long suppressed. The act of eating exotic meats becomes a way for her to experience freedom and break away from societal norms. However, as their cravings intensify, it becomes clear that their desires are not just about food, but something much darker and more dangerous.
Sumon, on the other hand, represents the curiosity and innocence of youth, but also the recklessness that comes with it. His fascination with unconventional meats is initially academic, but it soon spirals into an obsession that consumes both him and Nirmali. The film masterfully portrays how their mutual fascination leads them to cross moral boundaries, ultimately leading to tragic consequences.
Cinematic Excellence: Direction, Acting, and Music
Bhaskar Hazarika’s direction in “Aamis” is both subtle and powerful. He handles the film’s disturbing themes with a delicate touch, never resorting to gratuitous imagery or sensationalism. Instead, he lets the story unfold slowly, building tension and suspense with each scene. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to become fully immersed in the characters’ world.
The performances in “Aamis” are exceptional. Lima Das delivers a haunting portrayal of Nirmali, capturing the nuances of a woman torn between societal expectations and her own desires. Her performance is both restrained and intense, making Nirmali a deeply sympathetic character despite the choices she makes. Arghadeep Baruah as Sumon is equally compelling, bringing a sense of innocence and naivety to his role, which makes his character’s descent into obsession all the more tragic.
The film’s cinematography by Riju Das beautifully captures the essence of Guwahati, with its lush landscapes and bustling streets providing a stark contrast to the dark and disturbing narrative. The use of close-up shots, especially during the scenes where the characters indulge in their culinary experiments, adds to the film’s sense of intimacy and tension.
The music by Quan Bay adds another layer to the film, with its haunting melodies and atmospheric soundscapes. The score perfectly complements the film’s mood, heightening the sense of unease that permeates the story.
Conclusion: A Bold and Unforgettable Film
“Aamis” is not a film for the faint-hearted. It challenges the audience to confront their own notions of morality and desire, pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable in society. Bhaskar Hazarika has crafted a film that is both disturbing and thought-provoking, one that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
In an industry often dominated by formulaic storytelling, “Aamis” stands out for its originality and boldness. It is a film that dares to explore the darker side of human nature, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema that challenges and provokes. “Aamis” is a testament to the power of storytelling and a reminder of the complexities of the human psyche.
4o
