10th August 2023,Mumbai: Salman Khan, a powerhouse in the Bollywood film industry, has a history of remaking films, both from the South Indian film industry and from Marathi cinema. His latest venture, “Antim: The Final Truth,” is a remake of the 2018 Marathi film “Mulshi Pattern.” However, this remake has stirred up quite a bit of controversy, as the original director and cast members have expressed their dissatisfaction.
From Mulshi Pattern to Antim: The Evolution
“Antim: The Final Truth,” released in 2021, is a reimagining of “Mulshi Pattern,” which hit the screens in 2018. The original film, directed by Pravin Tarde, gained widespread acclaim for its gritty narrative and authentic portrayal of rural life. However, the reception of the remake has been far from unanimous, sparking a debate within the film community and among fans.
Pravin Tarde’s Candid Reaction
Pravin Tarde, the director of the original “Mulshi Pattern,” did not hold back when sharing his thoughts on “Antim.” Tarde admitted that he hasn’t watched the Salman Khan starrer and has no intention of doing so. He revealed that when Salman had seen the original “Mulshi Pattern,” he had praised Tarde’s work. However, Tarde claims that the essence of the film was lost in the remake, and he found the new version to be a mess. This candid assessment raises questions about the approach taken in adapting the source material.
The Director’s Loyalty to the Original
Tarde’s loyalty to his creation is evident as he expressed that his heart belongs solely to “Mulshi Pattern.” He has reportedly heard from various sources that the original film was better received than its remake. This sentiment underlines the challenges filmmakers face when reimagining successful movies, especially when the authenticity and essence of the original are compromised in the process.
Upendra Limaye Joins the Chorus
Upendra Limaye, an actor who played roles in both “Mulshi Pattern” and “Antim,” echoed Tarde’s sentiments during an appearance on the Marathi chat show “Bol Bhidu.” Limaye agreed with the director’s viewpoint, stating that there’s no doubt about the superiority of “Mulshi Pattern.” He went on to express his belief that the sincerity and rawness of the original film, rooted in the essence of Mulshi, were diluted in the pursuit of refinement. Limaye’s perspective highlights the fine balance between staying true to the source material and making meaningful adaptations.
A Missed Opportunity for ”Antim”
Critics argue that “Antim: The Final Truth” missed an opportunity to capture the essence that made “Mulshi Pattern” a success. Refinement, while valuable, should not come at the cost of the authenticity that resonates with audiences. This sentiment suggests that had the remake maintained a faithful representation of the original, it might have retained the appeal that endeared “Mulshi Pattern” to viewers.
Salman Khan’s Upcoming Project
Amidst the controversy, Salman Khan is preparing for his upcoming project, “Tiger 3,” alongside Katrina Kaif. As fans eagerly anticipate this collaboration, the “Antim” debate serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by filmmakers in reimagining beloved stories. The controversies and discussions surrounding “Antim: The Final Truth” emphasize the significance of preserving the essence and heart of a story when adapting it for a new audience.
Salman Khan’s journey into the realm of remakes has seen both successes and controversies. “Antim: The Final Truth,” a remake of the Marathi hit “Mulshi Pattern,” has sparked debates among filmmakers, cast members, and fans. The candid reactions from the original director Pravin Tarde and actor Upendra Limaye shed light on the challenges of reimagining a beloved film. The lesson from this debate is clear: while refinement is important, staying true to the core of the original story is essential to create a remake that resonates with audiences.
-by Kashvi Gala