Watch Begum Jaan

Begum Jaan is a 2017 Indian Hindi-language period drama film directed by Srijit Mukherji and starring Vidya Balan in the titular role. The film also features an ensemble cast that includes actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Pallavi Sharda, Naseeruddin Shah, Chunky Pandey, and Gauahar Khan among others. Set during the partition of India in 1947, the film tells the story of Begum Jaan, a brothel owner, who refuses to leave her establishment even after India and Pakistan are separated. The plot revolves around the struggle of Begum Jaan and her fellow courtesans to save their home from being demolished by the government officials.

The film begins with a brief illustrated account of the political and social situation that existed at the time of India's partition. The narrative then shifts to the introduction of Begum Jaan, a fierce and fearless woman who has built herself an empire amidst the chaos of the partition. Living under a constant fear of being evicted from her brothel, Begum Jaan is determined to fight for her home at any cost.

The brothel is located on the border between India and Pakistan, and the government officials plan to construct a border that would divide the property into two halves, resulting in the demolition of Begum Jaan's house. As the government officials arrive to inform Begum Jaan about their plan, she rejects their offer of compensation and refuses to leave her home. She then gathers her courtesans and tells them to be prepared for a fight against the government officials.

Begum Jaan's team of courtesans is a diverse group of women from different backgrounds who have all come to the brothel to escape poverty and discrimination. Throughout the film, we see their struggles and their individual journeys as they fight for their home and their dignity. Each of them has her own unique story to tell, and the film does a great job in highlighting their experiences.

The film also features a strong performance from Amitabh Bachchan in a guest appearance as the narrator of the film. His character is mysterious, and he weaves a magical spell over the audience with his narration. Naseeruddin Shah, too, delivers a brilliant performance as the owner of a nearby brothel who is supportive of Begum Jaan's cause.

As the story progresses, tensions mount between the courtesans and the government officials. The courtesans take up arms to defend their home, and the ensuing battle is a gruesome and bloody affair. The film is raw and unapologetic in its depiction of violence and brutality, and it makes for a gripping watch.

Overall, Begum Jaan is a strong film with a powerful message. It explores themes of gender, patriarchy, and the right to property in a manner that is both sensitive and unflinching. The film challenges the notion that women who engage in prostitution are powerless and voiceless, and it celebrates their strength and resilience. The performances by Vidya Balan and the rest of the cast are top-notch, and the film is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in Indian cinema.

Begum Jaan is a 2017 action movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 7 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.