Is National Theatre Live: Behind the Beautiful Forevers Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2015)

📖 The Core Premise

National Theatre Live: Behind the Beautiful Forevers stands as a 2015 entry that attempts to leave its mark on the Drama landscape. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "India is surging with global ambition. But beyond the luxury hotels surrounding Mumbai airport lies a makeshift slum, full of people with plans of their own. Zehrunisa and her son Abdul aim to recycle enough rubbish to fund a proper house. Sunil, twelve and stunted, wants to eat until he’s as tall as Kalu the thief. Asha seeks to steal government anti-poverty funds to turn herself into a ‘first-class person’, while her daughter Manju intends to become the slum’s first female graduate. But their schemes are fragile; global recession threatens the garbage trade, and another slum-dweller is about to make an accusation that will destroy herself and shatter the neighbourhood."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. While not a career-best, Meera Syal's presence adds a necessary stability to the proceedings. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Drama. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is National Theatre Live: Behind the Beautiful Forevers worth your time? If you appreciate Drama films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, National Theatre Live: Behind the Beautiful Forevers is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 200 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.