Nandita Das has proved herself to be an adept film-maker with her debut, Firaag, set against the aftermath of the 2002 Gujarat riots. In that film, Nawazuddin Siddiqui had a supporting role. Now in her next directorial, Nawaz is taking the lead in and as Manto, in a film based on the life of popular Pakistani author Saddat Hasan Manto. Our in-house critic Sreeju Sudhakaran is watching the movie and here's what he has to say about the first film -

"Unlike usual biopics, Manto doesn't show the author's life from the beginning. Instead it take off during the time when Manto is acquitted for the third time for his controversial writings. It is also the time when India is gaining Independence and is also getting separated from Pakistan. Even though he feels he and his family is safer in Bombay, the atmosphere of hate and his changing sentiments in his own close friends makes him change his decision and leave for Lahore. Manto Trailer Twitter Review: Nawazuddin Siddiqui-Nandita Das’ Movie on Censorship in 1947 Has Impressed the Netizens

The first half is filled with enough cameos both in terms of actors and the characters they are playing. We get to see some of the yesteryear icons like Ashok Kumar, K Asif, Ismat Chugtai being brought on screen, while actors like Rishi Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Gurudas Mann appear in impacting special appearances. Along with the fine performances of the lead cast, including an excellent Nawazuddin Siddiqui, as well as Nandita Das's direction, makes Manto an interesting watch till now." Manto has received a warm welcome and accolades at International Film Festivals. In fact, Nawaz only charged Re. 1 from Nandita for Manto. Stay tuned with us for the full movie review of Manto.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 20, 2018 04:21 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).