"Manto" is a biographical drama film based on the life of Pakistani writer Saadat Hasan Manto. The film explores Manto's life during the Partition of India in 1947 and his subsequent move to Lahore, Pakistan.
The story is set in Bombay's film industry, where Manto, played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, is a celebrated writer known for his fearless approach to storytelling. He rubs shoulders with famous actors and directors, who appreciate his work despite its controversial themes and bold language.
As communal tensions rise between Hindus and Muslims, Manto's ability to speak truth to power becomes even more critical. He refuses to shy away from topics such as prostitution, sexual violence, and religious conflict, and his writing is seen as a challenge to the conservative norms of society.
But as the violence worsens, Manto realizes that he cannot stay in Bombay any longer. He moves to Lahore with his wife Safia (Rasika Dugal) and their children, hoping to find a new audience for his work. But in Pakistan, he finds himself alienated and ostracized by the literary establishment.
The film follows Manto's struggles to find acceptance in his new home and his increasing disillusionment with the violence and intolerance that he sees around him. It also delves into his personal life, including his relationships with his wife and his close friend and colleague Shyam (Tahir Raj Bhasin).
Overall, "Manto" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that celebrates the legacy of a writer who dared to speak truth to power in the face of adversity. It is anchored by Siddiqui's powerful performance and features strong supporting turns from Dugal and Bhasin.
