This event has passed.
In response to police corruption, the private detective business has become increasingly common in India. The Bengali Detective follows the life of detective Rajesh Ji, who, along with his ragtag team of assistants, investigates cases ranging from counterfeit hair products to a brutal triple murder. When Rajesh is not sleuthing, he has big dreams of competing on a televised national dance show, so he and his detective gang form a dance troupe—which must be seen to be believed—and rehearse for their big audition. Set in chaotic Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, the film is shot with atmosphere and immediacy, complementing the mystery and suspense of the investigations. Director Philip Cox finds a riveting subject in Rajesh. He’s all at once a showman, a dedicated husband, and a humanitarian. The Bengali Detective is a layered, wildly entertaining film: a poignant profile of a delightful character, a gripping detective narrative, and a detailed look at the middle class in contemporary India. An official selection of the prestigious Sundance, Berlinale, Full Frame, and HotDocs Film Festivals; the film was purchased for broadcast on HBO and the remake rights scooped up by Fox Searchlight! Miami audiences will have an opportunity to see this film in it’s South Florida Premiere before its cable debut and before it receives the Hollywood treatment!
REVIEWS
“A most entertaining documentary about an Indian detective who penetrates an urban world of crime with a sharp eye, keen sense of humor but a heavy heart.” - The Hollywood Reporter
“Stranger than fiction… compelling.” – Variety