Indian cinema is a separate genre that has been developing for many years and exists according to its own laws, which are not always clear to the rest of the world. However, new trends do not pass by Bollywood either: local filmmakers try their hand at unusual formats, overshadowing traditional songs and dances. For example, in March 2019, the world premiere of the Indian sports drama "22 Yards" took place, in which the events unfold around the country's popular cricket game.
History of creation, plot, actors
In India, cricket is a national sport with a huge army of fans. However, there are not so many films dedicated to the favorite game of the Indians. The idea to correct this defect came from the former sports journalist Mitali Goshal. She used to appear on the cricket field as a player herself, then covered matches as a reporter, following teams around the world. The rich sports experience was the main reason why the producers of the film "22 Yards" entrusted the work on the project to the debutant director.
For three years, Goshal collaborated with Samrat, who invented the plot, wrote the script and dialogues for the film. As a result, the new drama will focus not only on cricketers, but also on the sports agent. The former journalist believes that people in this profession always undeservedly remain in the shadows, although in their field they play an important role.
In the story, the successful agent Ron Sen has achieved fame and recognition as the discoverer of many celebrity cricketers. However, in his carefree life comes a black streak due to false accusations related to unfair sports betting. As a result, Ron loses almost all of his eminent clients. In an effort to rebuild his collapsed career, he is forced to take under the tutelage of Shoma, a young loser, whose star path in cricket was undermined by a serious injury. Together, these two heroes begin a re-ascent to professional fame and recognition.
The role of sports agent Ron Sena was played by a young Indian actor Barun Sobti. He admitted that after reading the script, he was shocked to the core and did not suspect what passions are boiling outside the cricket field. By the way, fans of the Bollywood star in the movie "22 Yards" will have many scenes where Sobti will appear naked, showing excellent physical shape.
The character Shomu - Sena's young ward - was played by debutant Amartya Rai. According to the novice actor, after being approved for the role, most of all he was afraid to let the film crew down. Therefore, I worked diligently with the coach, comprehending the intricacies of the game of cricket, and learned the script "down to the commas." Fortunately, more experienced colleagues received him warmly and helped him easily get used to unfamiliar conditions.
The famous Indian actor Rajit Kapoor will appear on the screen as a sports psychologist, and the charming Panchi Bora will play a sports journalist. The film also starred: Chaiti Ghosal, Kartik Tripati, Mrinal Maherji, Rajesh Sharma, Vikram Kochar and others.
Interesting facts, reviews, trailer, premiere
By the way, Amartya Rai was noted in the project not only by acting. He is the author of the music and lyrics for most of the songs on the 22 Yards soundtrack.
Since the world premiere of the sports drama took place on March 15, foreign viewers have already shared their impressions of watching. In general, in the plot of "22 Yards" many noticed references to the famous Hollywood projects "Jerry Maguire" (1996) and "The Blind Side" (2009). However, moviegoers note that the film lacks grace and depth to truly captivate the viewer. A complex and confusing scenario is also cited as a major disadvantage.
However, criticism did not prevent the Indian project from collecting about $ 1.5 million at the box office, having significantly recouped its budget. The 22 Yards trailer premiered on January 16, 2019 in Mumbai. Sourav Ganguly, a famous cricketer and former captain of the Indian national team, was invited to the event as a guest of honor.
From June 6, Russian viewers can form their opinion about the new, atypical for Bollywood project. It was on this day that the film "22 Yards" was shown in Russian cinemas.
