Pather Panchali (1955) Review in 2025
Pather Panchali is a 1955 Indian drama film that tells the story of a young boy's life in a rural Bengal village, exploring themes of poverty, family, and identity.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This film is suitable for mature children and adults, but parental discretion is advised due to some scenes of poverty and illness.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is a must-watch for anyone interested in Indian cinema, drama, or family films. It's a powerful and emotional experience that will leave you moved and inspired.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows the life of Apu, a young boy growing up in a poor Bengali family, as he navigates the challenges of poverty, illness, and loss, ultimately leading to a poignant and powerful conclusion.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is engaging, emotional, and authentic, exploring the complexities of rural life in Bengal. The narrative is well-paced, with a clear structure and effective character development.
acting9.80/10
The acting is superb, with the child actors delivering impressive performances. The adult actors also deliver strong performances, bringing depth and emotion to their roles.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed, relatable, and authentic, with Apu being a standout character. The actors deliver nuanced performances, bringing depth and emotion to their roles.
direction9.80/10
Satyajit Ray's direction is masterful, showcasing his expertise in storytelling and character development. The film's cinematography, editing, and sound design are also noteworthy.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and poverty of rural Bengal. The use of natural light, colors, and composition is impressive, creating a visually stunning film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's authentic portrayal of rural life, engaging storyline, and outstanding performances make it a standout film. The cinematography, direction, and editing are also noteworthy.
Cons
Some scenes may be disturbing or upsetting for sensitive viewers, and the pacing can be slow at times.
Notable Quotes
"Apu: 'I don't want to be a beggar, I want to be a man.'"
"Apu's father: 'We are not beggars, we are farmers.'"
