Lembi Leima (2022) - Movie Review

Movie Corner *

Director: Mayank Pratap Singh

Lembi Leima is a Manipuri short film set against the backdrop of a remote hilly terrain of the state. It narrates the circumstances faced by a government plantation surveyor, Bala, when she tries to do her assignment diligently; how her radical thoughts backfire, and she becomes a target of mob justice.

The film explores the mythologies which linger among the indigenous people and how holding onto cultural beliefs can create either havoc or harmony. It’s a matter of perspective. Lembi Leima has won many accolades at both national and international events, and rightly so.

Although the movie extras could have done better with their dialogue delivery, the lead and supporting casts did justice to their assigned roles with flawless and effortless acting. The prosthetic makeup is done skillfully, and the background music score complements the film’s rhythm, aiding the eerie aura.

Director Mayank Pratap Singh has done a great job depicting human nature’s shades. He walks us into the naive thought process of the gullible masses in tackling problems and the belief system that has driven their sanities murky.

How firmly adherent people are to their superstitious mindset - the irony that greedy, corrupted minds are scarier and more vicious than any form of witchcraft. The sudden shifts in the tonality of the movie from light to darker themes place the moviegoers on the edge of their seats. The cinematography captures every complex shot carefully, creating a mysteriously or uncannily frightening atmosphere.

The most beautiful character arc is of Bala’s caretaker, Nando. However, his growth cast him as an outlier among his people. Nando symbolizes the connecting links bridging the gap between modern ideas and mythical beliefs that represent the rich cultural evidence of our ancient past.

Both lines of thought must mold and be revised to live in accord. Else mayhem will ensue when that bridge cracks. Though the film ends optimistically, the question stays if the protagonist’s life will remain scarred or if she will become more assertive.

In conclusion, Lembi Leima culminates many themes reflecting Manipuri society and gives a new flavor to the audience. The movie also has lots of symbolism and easter eggs, so look out for them. The history of Manipuri cinema is evolving and maturing, and we can’t wait to be a part of it. It’s a great film and worth the watch.

Reviewed by : Team Moviecorner(MitSna) .