KARACHI:
The second season of Made in Heaven is apt in many ways. Weddings, embellished by an obvious politician, take a bit of a backseat in this piece (although they're just as larger-than-life as before). After almost four years of waiting, the very fact bothered many, with some complaining that the show made them feel like they were being preached to. However, Made in Heaven was always political; The first season is an exhilarating high and the heartbreaking lows are a testament to the same. The second part is much more unapologetic in its social commentary, and therein lies its vitality.
Warning: spoiler!
At the end of the second season, a triumphant Tara (Sobhita Dhulipala) faces criticism from her friend, who believes that she does not deserve her newfound winnings. In a powerful moment of assertiveness, Tara reminds him that his opinion has no bearing on what he deserves. That's the core of Season 2 of this spectacular show; The opinions of others, the plague that is "what people will say," are tackled head-on, with moral ambiguities coloring the narrative.
The series features numerous strong messages woven into the structure of key episodes. For example, the very first episode tactfully combats the obsession with fairness. It is rather ironic that the bride in question has a beautiful dark skin tone and is not completely dark. The episode subtly addresses the colonial hangover that many in the subcontinent still struggle with through opulent optics masked by upper-class grandeur, and is a reminder that while beauty has always been more than skin deep, learned behaviors and inherited insecurities run far deeper.
While the groom reminds the bride that she is "the perfect caramel" (a thoroughly white way to describe a brown beauty), the bride's inability to put down the very products that were ruining her face in order to embrace the hope of lighter skin is like a heartbreaking display because it is realistic and believable.
Another notable episode is the one where Mrunal Thakur plays the role of a victim of domestic violence who is about to get hitched to her abuser. Harsh, dark and hard-hitting – it's a reminder of the many nuances associated with cases of intimate partner violence. The reluctance to accept that someone is being abused, to cover up for a partner, the oblivion associated with being emotionally entangled with a narcissist, and reaching the point of no return—these are perceptively displayed in this critical episode.
It's a tough watch, especially when Thakur's Adhira is going through a wedding, but also one of the most important, given that marriages with rampant abuse are a palpable reality. The serial makes the audience live with this shock till the very end, until a news clipping confirms that Adhira has filed a complaint against her abusive husband. Although it's a moment of respite, Adhira's upcoming battle, where her name will inevitably be dragged through the mud in a world where victims are rarely believed, is one we don't see on screen. After all, audiences have consumed similar real trials, and rarely does the victim receive a semblance of justice.
The episode with Radhika Apte is perhaps the most poignant, boldly tackling the issue of India's infamous caste system. The makers who are being criticized for lifting the lived experience of journalist and writer Yashica Dutt are undoubtedly right. This is quite depressing, given that the tireless dismantling of the caste problem on an individualistic level is one of the most brilliant viewing experiences of the entire season. Thoroughly feminist, unapologetically bold and suitably cross-cutting, the offering is easily one of the highlights of the season.
All of this is elevated by crisp editing and breathtaking cinematography, making the entire season a spectacular visual feast. Apart from that, there are spirited performances from the entire cast, with Sobhita, Arjun Mathur, Jim Sarbh and Trinetra Haldar giving their all to the narrative, the individual arcs are a treat to watch. Karan's (Arjun) journey is illustrated through drug abuse as a struggle between being himself and submitting to his dying mother's wishes for him to be anything else. It's a reminder of the fact that no one on the show is supposed to be perfect, regardless of their politics. The characters are inherently flawed and constantly struggle with their demons, becoming human. This makes Made in Heaven more relatable to its audience.
Meher (Trinetra) is a welcome and necessary addition that provides a vital window into the experience of the post-op transgender person. This is handled tastefully where at no point does one feel lectured. The events of her life unfold organically and are indispensable in highlighting the many woes that come with being trans, evoking a sense of empathy that is often difficult to ignite with a subject of this nature.
Tara is a perfectly dressed ball of fire this season - more in her element than anyone has ever seen her. Whether it's her stretching out in the garb of revenge, seeking monetary compensation during a divorce proceeding, dealing with her former best friend's conception of a child with her ex-husband—something she longed for but never got—or becoming the epitome of the age-old adage: “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned,” Sobhita slays every frame and one is thankful for that. However, at no point is Tara a victim of her divorce. Her refusal to be fooled by respectability politics and her steadfast desire to get what she believes is rightfully hers make her a formidable foe for Adil (Jim), and watching their deadly divorce dance is stunning in many ways.
Mona Singh as Bulbul Jauhari has her own problems this season. Although he is a new character, he fits seamlessly into the overall narrative. Through her struggle, themes of victim blaming, sexual abuse, violence and holding loved ones accountable are highlighted. While vital, one can't help but feel that while her story is just as compelling, it might have deserved to play out in a better written way instead of taking place in the background, almost doubling as filler. Made in Heaven season perfect? It's not and it's not meant to be. It's a reminder to viewers that art imitates life, and life is inherently marked by tumultuous imperfections. Just as Tara informs her exasperated boyfriend that his opinion has no bearing on what he deserves, the audience feels that their opinions have no bearing on how the show goes. We don't decide who deserves a happy ending. We don't decide who is right or wrong. We are allowed to express an opinion, but that does not change what was written.
Making peace with the same is almost our homework and with us.
What an ideal world it would be if blacks were black and whites were white. However, Made in Heaven intelligently robs the audience of moral clarity, finding its peace nestled among tantalizing gray areas that pit one face to face with their own demons and a host of unanswered questions.
In the highly anticipated sequel "Made in Heaven 2", audiences will be treated to a masterful continuation of the engaging storytelling that made the original series a sensation. This time, the creators skillfully combined vital political themes with incisive social commentary, raising the impact of the show to new heights. With its compelling characters, expert storytelling and unabashed exploration of societal issues, "Made in Heaven 2" proves to be an essential watch for those looking for entertainment that both challenges and captivates.
Vital politics takes center stage:
"Made in Heaven 2" wastes no time diving into the heart of the current political landscape. The storyline deftly tackles pressing issues like corruption, power dynamics and ethical dilemmas in the corridors of power. The show's portrayal of the political landscape is honest and unapologetic, offering viewers a window into the intricacies and machinations that shape our world. Through character interactions and moral dilemmas, the series will spark crucial conversations about the responsibilities of those in power and the impact of their decisions on society.
Insightful Social Commentary:
Beyond its political intrigue, "Made in Heaven 2" continues to illuminate social nuances with remarkable precision. The writers of the series demonstrate an uncanny ability to dissect and explore the tangled threads of contemporary life and astutely observe issues such as gender inequality, class struggles and cultural prejudices. By weaving these themes into the characters' personal journeys, the series challenges viewers to question their own perspectives and consider the broader implications of these societal challenges.
Character Depth and Development:
One of the undeniable strengths of the series lies in its richly developed characters, each struggling with their individual demons and navigating a complex world. As we reconnect with the characters we grew to love in the first season, we get to delve into more layers of their personalities and motivations. Their growth, struggles and evolving relationships add an emotionally resonant layer to the political and social commentary, creating a compelling and immersive viewing experience.
Visual and narrative brilliance:
Visually, "Made in Heaven 2" retains the same meticulous attention to detail and striking cinematography that characterized the original series. From opulent wedding backdrops to gritty urban landscapes, the show's visuals play an integral role in amplifying the impact of the narrative. Intricate camera work and evocative imagery serve to underscore the stark contrasts that exist in the characters' lives and heighten the narrative experience.
"Made in Heaven 2" is a testament to the potential of entertainment to spark discussion and provoke introspection. With its deft handling of major politics and fearless exploration of social commentary, the series firmly cements its place in the pantheon of must-see television. Through its compelling characters, thought-provoking narrative and exceptional craftsmanship, "Made in Heaven 2" delivers an immersive viewing experience that leaves a lasting impact and keeps us thinking about the world around us long after the closing credits roll.
"Made in Heaven" returns with a highly anticipated second season that delivers a potent blend of compelling storytelling, intricate character development and thought-provoking social commentary. In this review, we delve into how the series continues to excel at weaving major politics and meaningful social insights into its narrative structure, cementing its position as a remarkable piece of television art.
Engaging Narrative and Character Development:
Season 2 of 'Made in Heaven' seamlessly picks up on threads left hanging from the previous season, re-immersing viewers in the lives of Tara and Karan, two protagonists who navigate the intricacies of running a high-end wedding planning business while negotiating. with his personal demons. The character arcs are masterfully developed, revealing vulnerabilities and strengths that make these individuals engaging and compelling.
Vital politics takes center stage:
What sets "Made in Heaven" apart from the usual TV fare is its fearless embrace of major political themes. This season delves deeper into the intricacies of power dynamics, societal prejudices, and political maneuvering. With weddings as its backdrop, the series unflinchingly tackles issues such as gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, class divides and religious tensions. The narrative cleverly uses these festive events as a canvas to reveal the often unseen layers of the society we inhabit.
Social commentary to ponder:
The brilliance of "Made in Heaven" lies in its ability to spark conversations about real-world issues through its fictional depictions. The season thoughtfully dissects the institution of marriage and highlights the immense societal pressures that surround it. It raises questions about the blurred boundaries between tradition and personal choice, while advocating individual action and self-discovery.
Diverse perspectives and authentic representation:
In a television landscape where representation matters more than ever, “Made in Heaven” still shines. The series presents a wide spectrum of characters from different backgrounds, sexual orientations and economic classes. This authentic portrayal not only adds depth to the narrative, but also allows the audience to connect with the characters from different walks of life, fostering empathy and understanding.
Visual Splendor and Artistic Excellence:
In addition to its compelling narrative, "Made in Heaven" dazzles with its visual aesthetic. Each frame is meticulously crafted, evoking the opulence and grandeur of Indian weddings while drawing attention to the contrasts between extravagance and reality. The show's cinematography and production design add to the overall immersive experience and heighten the impact of its narrative.
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