The Coward (1965)

The film "The Coward" (1965) weaves an intricate story set in the backdrop of the tranquil tea plantations of north Bengal. Amitabha Roy, a thriving screenwriter from Calcutta, embarks on a journey to Hashimara, partly to visit family and partly to gather inspiration for his upcoming film. His voyage takes an unexpected turn when his taxi breaks down in a remote town. With the local mechanic unable to fix the vehicle until the weekend, Amitabha finds himself stranded. A ray of hope shines through this predicament when he is offered shelter by the naïve Bimal Gupta, a tea plantation owner craving some company amidst the solitude of his estate. But this refuge turns into a labyrinth of past emotions when Amitabha discovers that Bimal's wife, Karuna, is none other than his erstwhile lover. This revelation exposes Amitabha to a flood of memories, resurfacing their first encounters, their blossoming love, and the painful separation borne out of his inability to commit. Although he is still captivated by his love for Karuna, Amitabha is unaware of Bimal's obliviousness to the tension brewing between his wife and their guest. The narrative unfolds over the course of a day, marked by shared meals and a picnic, where every small interaction stirs up Amitabha's longing for the past. As these memories resurface, his renewed prosperity and suspicion of Karuna's marital discontentment compel him to rekindle their lost love. The film builds towards a poignant climax, hinging not only on Karuna's feelings towards her husband, but also on her lingering emotions for Amitabha. Will she reciprocate Amitabha's feelings? Or has the time for courage and reconciliation long passed? The film "The Coward" leaves viewers entwined in this complex web of love, regret, and the courage to face one's past.

The Coward is a drama movie featuring Soumitra Chatterjee.

The Coward is currently streaming on Criterion Channel, Max and Max Amazon Channel.