Mili (1975) Review: Another Thematic Adaptation Of Dark Victory (1939) That Largely Works In Its Favour And Retains Its Emotional Sincerity

RATING – ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ✨ 3.5/5*

Mili Review Movie Talkies:

Hrishikesh Mukherjee had earlier made Anand (1971) with Amitabh Bachchan, a film that went on to become a full-blown tearjerker and a benchmark for Hindi cinema tragedies. Mili follows a somewhat similar emotional trajectory but introduces a gendered perspective that gives it a distinct identity.

Some viewers may be familiar with Bette Davis’ Dark Victory, where the protagonist succumbs to a tumour-related illness after finding love and marriage. Mili echoes this narrative theory, though the nature of the illness and emotional handling differ. Unlike Anand, which culminates in an unmistakable and devastating death scene, Mili chooses a gentler, more optimistic approach in its final moments.

Mili Story:

Mili herself is portrayed as a young woman overflowing with happiness, kindness, freedom, and emotional warmth. Shekhar, a deeply depressed man burdened by past trauma and society’s harsh judgments about his parents, moves into her housing society. After an initially awkward interaction, the two gradually grow close and fall in love. The romance, however, is short-lived as tragedy strikes, yet Shekhar remains unwavering in his commitment.

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Mili Cast:

Jaya Bachchan plays a role somewhat reminiscent of her character in Guddi (1971), portraying a lively and talkative girl, though her arc takes a dramatic and sombre turn in the second half. She looks charming and delivers a sincere, emotionally layered performance. Amitabh Bachchan appears handsome, restrained, and effective, with excellent dialogue delivery and expressive subtlety. Ashok Kumar and Aruna Irani lend solid support in their respective roles.

Mili Music:

A special mention is reserved for the legendary S.D. Burman, who passed away after completing this film, making it the final project of his illustrious career. Maine Kaha Phoolon Se remains an eternal classic. The song carries a soulful message, radiates warmth and joy, and beautifully mirrors the film’s central philosophy of hope and positivity.

Mili Movie Review:

Mili concludes on a subdued yet hopeful note, which slightly softens the emotional blow. While Anand left me teary-eyed, Mili never quite reaches that emotional peak, perhaps because too much is revealed too early. Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s trademark social commentary also feels comparatively restrained here. Still, Mili stands tall as a well-crafted, heartfelt film that holds its own.

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