IFFI review: Mountain Onion

“Mountain Onion: A Cinematic Platter That Leaves an Unsavory Taste”

I recently attended the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 23, 2023, where I had the opportunity to watch the much-talked-about film, “Mountain Onion.” However, what seemed like a promising cinematic experience turned out to be a perplexing journey, leaving me with more questions than answers.

The movie opens with the portrayal of an average father navigating through life’s challenges while striving to meet the needs of his family. Initially, I anticipated a narrative that would unfold to showcase the father’s journey of revitalizing his family’s happiness through personal or professional growth. However, the story took unexpected turns that left me questioning its essence.

One of the perplexities revolves around the narrative perspective—unclear as to whose viewpoint is driving the story forward. This lack of clarity made it challenging to empathize with the characters and comprehend their motivations.

May be because of the cultural differences I may not be understanding few things. But this movie had everything to excite the audience in the beginning. But fell a long way from where it started. I am unable to understand a few things. Like;

In whose point of view the story gets narrated?

What is the need of the mother? Is it financial support from her husband or illegitimate sex?

I don’t see the female lead taking money for having sex with others.

Is the story about the journey of the kids to fulfill the sexual strength of their father?

Why is the father not earning and making kids to earn through improper way?

What is the load that the family carries all time in their small van?

Is the love lady working as an employee in the gas station? How did she suddenly come to her inbuilt house?

Why does the truck drivers have only one place to have their sex?

Finally the father is still the same father without money. What makes his wife to suddenly change and accept him?

The movie leaves a lot of questions and I am unable to understand the culture of the country as well. The truck driver has used the love lady of another person yet when three of them meet there is no embarrassment or guilt.

Sai Vijendhiran