Farhana, a 2023 Tamil-language thriller drama, delves into the life of a middle-class woman navigating the complexities of societal expectations and personal desires. Directed by Nelson Venkatesan, the film features Aishwarya Rajesh in a compelling lead role, supported by a talented ensemble cast.
OTT Release and Platform
After its theatrical release on May 12, 2023, Farhana became available for streaming on SonyLIV starting July 7, 2023. The film can also be streamed on Airtel Xstream Play, providing audiences with multiple platforms to experience this thought-provoking narrative.
Plot Overview
The story centers around Farhana, a devout Muslim woman living with her father and husband, Kareem. Facing financial hardships due to their struggling shoe shop, Farhana takes up a job at a bank call center. To earn more, she transitions to a department handling friendship chats, where she adopts the pseudonym ‘ISHA’. While initially uncomfortable with the lewd conversations, she finds solace in a caller named Dhayalan, who treats her with respect and kindness. Their bond deepens, but when Dhayalan’s true intentions surface, Farhana’s life spirals into a web of blackmail and emotional turmoil. Determined to reclaim her life, she confronts the challenges head-on, showcasing resilience and strength.
Cast and Crew
- Aishwarya Rajesh as Farhana: Delivers a powerful performance, capturing the nuances of a woman torn between duty and desire.
- Selvaraghavan as Dhayalan: Portrays the enigmatic caller whose relationship with Farhana becomes central to the plot.
Jithan Ramesh, Anumol, and Aishwarya Dutta: Provide strong supporting performances that enrich the narrative.
Director: Nelson Venkatesan
Producers: S. R. Prakash Babu and S. R. Prabhu under Dream Warrior Pictures
Music: Justin Prabhakaran
Cinematography: Gokul Benoy
Editing: V. J. Sabu Joseph
Reception
Farhana received positive reviews for its storytelling and performances. Gopinath Rajendran of The Hindu praised the film’s treatment and cast performances. The Times of India rated it 3 out of 5 stars, noting its strengths despite occasional pacing issues. The film’s realistic portrayal of a woman’s struggle for autonomy resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Accolades
Aishwarya Rajesh’s portrayal of Farhana earned her the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress – Tamil, recognizing her compelling performance and contribution to the film’s impact.
Conclusion
Farhana stands out as a poignant exploration of a woman’s journey through societal constraints, personal dilemmas, and the quest for self-empowerment. With its engaging narrative and strong performances, the film offers a thought-provoking experience for viewers. Available on SonyLIV and Airtel Xstream Play, Farhana is a must-watch for those seeking cinema that challenges and inspires.
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