In light of the global pandemic, film festivals around the world are still navigating through the easing of restraints and rising cases, their mailability in the continuing strive for inclusivity both for creator and spectator ever present. Bentonville Film Festival joins the ranks of so many, bringing both the virtual and the physical options of spectatorship to its audiences, bringing a variety of content from around the world.
The first film that caught my eye, being the first must-see of the event, was Basam Tariq’s Mogul Mowgli. Written and based on the story by Riz Ahmed and Bassam Tariq, Mogul Mowgli follows an aspiring Pakistani rapper on the precipice of his life’s work culminating into his big break. But all his dreams come to a brutally sudden halt as he is faced with a debilitating illness that jeopardizes his entire future.
Rewind. Repeat.
To be honest, it was the appearance and writing credits of actor Riz Ahmed that drew me to Mogul Mowgli. Ahmed had previously garnered nominations and award-winning recognition for his previous roles in the TV miniseries The Night Of and last year’s Oscar-nominated film Sound of Metal – the latter garnering him his first Oscar nomination. And rightfully so, the torn soul of artists and human battling was an unforgettable performance. With Mogul Mowgli, the infusion of these elements once again is delivered in a stunning performance by Ahmed, his eyes are hypnotizing with the amount of emotion he is able to exhibit continually speaking to his immense talent – and is certain to once again gain recognition.
But while it was captivating, delivering another outstanding performance from Ahmed and showcasing the skill of Tariq, it was a story to easily on repeat. While wholly engaging and an immersive film, when the curtain falls, Mogul Mowgli becomes reminiscent of Sound of Metal. A musical artist facing devastation at the hands of a debilitating illness that only a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, coupled with a medical miracle of sorts, will set him on the right path to success. It is not a comparison that is held strongly during the run time of the film, but one that quickly sweeps in as the closing credits complete. For many, this will only enhance the film, but for others will be a retrospective deterrent.
Technically, the film is sound, engaging its audience into the folds of its story and driving the empathy and intrigue of its central character. Presented in an aspect ratio of 1:33:1, the tight framing gives the film deeper intimacy, allowing for the tight framing to be almost intrusive and claustrophobic, while other times capturing an emotion just about to break to the surface. The tight framing also helps to create the distance between characters as well, the framing almost pushing them together as they magnetically try to stay apart. There is a desire to connect, both within the film and through the eyes of the filmmaker.
This need for connectivity is not restricted only to the characters captured by the lens. There is a desire to connect and understand the past, where we came from and the culture attempting to be continued in a changing world and a changing time. Mogul Mowgli interlaces both the ideals of father and son, both from a modern and immigrant standpoint. there is a divide in the understanding between the two and the film works to close the gaps between them, providing introspective viewpoints through almost surrealist experiences. Furthering the depth of culture within the film, the legend Toba Tek Singh is utilized throughout the entirety of the film, his story almost mirroring and certainly enhancing the life and tribulations of Zed (Riz Ahmed).
Conclusion: Mogul Mowgli
In its entirety, Mogul Mowgli is a cinematic experience that will resonate with the heart and enlighten the mind. Yet, when the credits come to a close and the lights begin to shine, the film loses much of its effect, mirroring the storyline of Sound of Metal from the year before. Yet, where Mogul Mowgli may find itself a bit too reminiscent of the past, its story, lead performance, and experience still make it a must-see film of the year.
Mogul Mowgli opened the Bentonville Film Festival on August 2, 2021.
Watch Mogul Mowgli
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