The Hero (1966)

In the heart of the spotlight, famed actor Arindam Mukherjee (Uttam Kumar) embarks on a train journey to accept a prestigious acting award. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Aditi (Sharmila Tagore), a journalist who, despite initial reluctance, begins probing into his life. Touched by Aditi's ingenuous nature, Arindam gradually peels back the layers of his persona, uncloaking his past, his insecurities, and his concealed secrets. Simultaneously, the train carves a path through a series of intertwined subplots, shedding light on an advertising executive and his wife, a businessman with his family, a taciturn swami, and a grumpy elder. These tales unfold to expose the underlying paradoxes and weaknesses within society. As the journey reaches its climax, Arindam is ensnared by his own guilt, teetering on the precipice of self-destruction, only to be pulled back by Aditi's intervention. The dawn breaks to find Aditi, who had covertly documented their intimate discourse, tearing up her notes, choosing to shield Arindam's darkest secrets from the world. As the train pulls into the station, Arindam steps off, immediately enveloped by a throng of adoring fans. With the spotlight back on him, he effortlessly slips back into his star-studded facade, a world devoid of guilt, confessions, and no trace of Aditi.

The Hero is a drama movie featuring Uttam Kumar.

The Hero is currently streaming on Criterion Channel and Max Amazon Channel.

It is also possible to buy The Hero on Amazon Video and Apple TV.