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Gandhi, released in 1982, is an epic biographical drama based on the life and struggles of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. Directed by Sir Richard Attenborough, the movie features Ben Kingsley in the titular role, who delivers a masterful performance that won him an Academy Award for Best Actor.

The story begins in South Africa in the early 20th century, where a young Gandhi, a successful lawyer, first experiences discrimination and injustice against the Indian community. He decides to fight against these atrocities and becomes a leader of the Indian community's struggle for civil rights. The movie depicts Gandhi's journey from a shy, hesitant individual to a strong and fearless leader who leads his country to independence and inspires millions of people around the world.

The film portrays Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience, which he adopted from his religious beliefs and inspiration from his mentors. Kingsley's performance brings Gandhi's resolve and determination to life, culminating in his famous Salt March, where he marched over 240 miles to the Arabian Sea to protest against the British salt monopoly.

John Gielgud plays as Lord Irwin, the British Viceroy of India. He portrays a sympathetic understanding of the Indian cause, but ultimately protects British interests. Rohini Hattangadi delivers a powerful portrayal of Kasturba, Gandhi's wife, who although did not share her husband's ideals initially, joins him in his fight against British imperialism and social injustice later in life.

The film also features historical figures such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who played instrumental roles in the formation of modern-day India and Pakistan. The actors' performances provide a glimpse into the various factions that existed during that time, and the challenges they presented for Gandhi's philosophy.

The movie's depiction of India's struggle for independence is both historically accurate and emotionally stirring. The audience gets a view of the suffering and hardships of ordinary people, and the fierce opposition faced by those fighting for justice. The blood-soaked violence during partition and the repercussions of these tragic events on millions of lives pulls the audience into the struggle for freedom and the sense of urgency in the fight.

The cinematography is spectacular, with breathtaking visuals of Indian landscapes and cultural traditions that highlight the beauty of the country. The film's soundtrack is equally impressive, with a memorable score and traditional Indian music that powerfully enhances the emotional depth of the story. The editing is meticulous, with seamless transitions between scenes that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.

In conclusion, Gandhi is a masterful movie that captures the essence of India's struggle for independence and the philosophy of a man who inspired a nation. It is a timeless masterpiece that reminds the audience of the power of non-violence in adversity and the enduring legacy of a great leader. The performances of the cast, the cinematography, and the score are all superlative, combining to make a film worthy of its recognition and awards. If you have not watched it already, it is highly recommended that you do.

Gandhi is a 1982 drama with a runtime of 3 hours and 8 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0 and a MetaScore of 79.