Watch A Death in the Gunj

A Death in the Gunj is a 2016 Indian drama film that follows the story of a family vacation that takes a dark turn. The movie is set in the year 1979 and revolves around the life of a young man named Shutu, played by Vikrant Massey, who is struggling with depression and isolation. Shutu, who was recently mourning the loss of his father, accompanies his family to their ancestral home in McCluskiegunj, a colonial manor in Jharkhand. The family includes Shutu's aunt and uncle, played by Tanuja Mukherjee and Om Puri, respectively, and their daughter, played by Kalki Koechlin.

The family is joined by a couple of friends, played by Gulshan Devaiah and Tillotama Shome. The friends add some excitement to the vacation with their jokes and pranks but also prove to be a threat when their true nature is revealed.

As the story unfolds, Shutu finds himself feeling isolated and lost within the group. He longs for the attention and love of the others, especially his cousin Mimi, played by Kalki Koechlin, who is dealing with her own personal issues.

The movie takes on a dark twist as the group sets out on a hunting trip, and Shutu begins to feel more and more excluded by the others. The forest becomes a place of danger and uncertainty as the group seems to be more interested in the hunt than their safety.

The story is a slow burn that builds up to a shocking ending. The film explores themes of masculinity, mental health, and family dynamics. It delves into the complexity of human relationships and how they can be both healing and destructive.

One of the strongest aspects of the movie is the acting. Vikrant Massey delivers a compelling performance as Shutu, portraying the character's vulnerability and pain with subtlety and depth. Kalki Koechlin is equally impressive as Mimi, playing a character dealing with her own personal struggles while trying to be a support system for Shutu.

The cinematography and setting also add to the film's overall mood and tone. The film takes place in a lush, green forest, creating a sense of isolation and detachment. The movie's aesthetic, with its vintage cars, old architecture, and rustic structure, transports you back to a different era.

Overall, A Death in the Gunj is a thought-provoking film that leaves a lasting impression. It is a complex and nuanced exploration of human relationships, mental health, and masculinity. The movie's slow pace and muted emotions may not appeal to everyone, but it is undoubtedly a film that stays with you long after you have watched it.

A Death in the Gunj is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.