Rituparno Ghosh’s 2008 travel drama Khela makes for a perfect companion on a chilly winter afternoon. The film’s heartwarming story revolves around the unexpected bond forged between an eccentric filmmaker Raja (played by Prosenjit Chatterjee) and a precocious child, who’s cast as the lead in the filmmaker’s forthcoming film. Despite his wife’s long-standing desire to have a child, Raja is firmly against the idea. But his opinion of considering parenthood is altered through his interactions with a teenage actor. This also leads to a natural character progression as Raja discovers facets of his personality that he never knew existed.

Despite seeking emotional support from his patient wife Sheela (played by Manisha Koirala), Raja initially ignores her needs and desires. But then he’s encouraged through his own journey of self-realisation to acknowledge and accept Sheela’s idea of a family. Khela’s simple narrative style packs in themes such as companionship, loyalty and family, without being too overbearing or pedantic.

Avik Mukhopadhyay’s intuitive lens captures the luscious greens of North Bengal, almost rendering it as the third character within the narrative. Khela is a breezy watch that snuggles close to your heart and leaves you with a sweet aftertaste.

If you haven't watched this yet, then do so streaming now on Zee5, Google Play and Jio.

Well, that's the OTTplay Lost and Found hidden gem film for today. I shall be back pretty soon with another interesting critically acclaimed film. This is your host Nikhil signing out now