Bony (2021) — Bangla Science Fiction

"Bony" (2021) is a Bengali-language science fiction thriller directed by Parambrata Chatterjee, featuring Koel Mallick, Anjan Dutt, and Chatterjee himself. The film is an adaptation of Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay's novel and was produced by Nishpal Singh under Surinder Films. Set in Milan, Italy, the story follows Sabyasachi (Chatterjee) and Pratibha (Mallick), a Bengali couple whose lives are upended when their newborn son, Bony, exhibits extraordinary abilities. An American-born Bangladeshi scientist, Saukat Osman (Dutt), on the run from terrorism charges, seeks out the couple, believing Bony holds the key to his quest. The central conflict revolves around the Mukherjees' struggle to protect their son from external threats while grappling with the implications of his unusual powers. The film delves into themes of parental love, the ethical dimensions of scientific discovery, and the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement. Chatterjee's direction aims to blend elements of science fiction and drama, creating a taut and suspenseful narrative. The tone is both mysterious and emotional, as the characters navigate the complexities of their situation. The film's genre allows for an exploration of speculative ideas within a familiar cultural context. Upon its release on October 10, 2021, "Bony" received mixed reviews. Critics praised the film for its ambition in introducing science fiction to Bengali cinema but noted shortcomings in execution. The Times of India awarded it a 3 out of 5 rating, acknowledging the film's daring approach while highlighting areas for improvement. The Indian Express rated it 2.5 out of 5, citing a weak and disjointed script as a drawback. Despite these critiques, "Bony" stands as a noteworthy attempt to expand the horizons of regional cinema, appealing to viewers interested in narratives that challenge conventional storytelling.