Nagraj Manjule's next film, Jhund (2020), might revolve around the subject of sports, but that does not mean the director will completely forego of his social commentary through the film. The teaser for the Amitabh Bachchan-led film captures this subtle but effective style that has come to define Manjule.
The teaser has also now revealed the release date for the film on 8 May 2020. The film was initially scheduled for a release on 20 September 2019, before being postponed.
The teaser begins with a blank slate, where Bachchan's familiar baritone tells someone 'Don't call it a jhund (mob), call it a team'. This is soon followed by the sight of a group of young boys, of all shapes and sizes, setting out for a street fight. Armed with chains, bricks, bats and stumps, the group look to be up to no good. It is this group of young boys that Bachchan's retired sports teacher sets out to reform through the use of football.
The poster, released yesterday, captured the sight of a forlorn Bachchan staring at a wall beyond which lay the expanse of shanties and slums. The film is based on the life of Vijay Barse, founder of Slum Soccer, an NGO in Nagpur that created opportunities for underprivileged children and teens through the sport of soccer.
Another key feature of the teaser is the thumping music by Ajay-Atul. The composers were also part of the unprecedented success that Manjule enjoyed with Sairat (2016). The teasing title track is catchy enough to keep you coming back for more.
While the teaser does not reveal any of the leads yet, the film is likely to feature yet another Sairat connection in the form of Akash Thosar. Watch the teaser below, and let us know if you are keen on watching the film.