‘Second Chance’: Of redemption and return

Dealing with redemption, resilience and self-discovery, writer-director Subhadra Mahajan’s debut feature film, ‘Second Chance’, was screened at the Dharamshala International Film Festival, which ended on Sunday. With its nuanced narrative and compelling visuals, it left a profound impact on the audience.

Born in Shimla, Subhadra’s artistic vision has been shaped by her upbringing amidst the serene Himalayas. She is the daughter of senior BJP leader and Rajya Sabha member Harsha Mahajan, and her mother, Uma Mahajan, is a stage actor and social activist. Subhadra has co-written acclaimed films like ‘Angry Indian Goddesses’ (2015) and ‘Last Film Show’ (2021) — both directed by Pan Nalin.

‘Second Chance’ resonates with anyone who has longed for a second chance, and offers a moving portrayal of self-discovery and the resilience of human spirit. It lingers long after the credits have rolled, a testament to the power of homecoming and the human journey of finding peace. 

‘Second Chance’, which had its premiere at the 58th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival’s Proxima in June, follows a middle-aged immigrant’s return to India after life-changing setbacks abroad. Through his journey, Subhadra explores the bittersweet nature of missed opportunities, the yearning for a fresh start, and the unique struggles of reclaiming a place in one’s homeland. Thematically, ‘Second Chance’ challenges audiences to consider the concept of “home” and its role in shaping who we are.

Subhadra’s storytelling is thought-provoking, encouraging viewers to ponder how the past shapes the present. Her portrayal of the immigrant experience reaches beyond geographical boundaries, resonating with anyone who has felt torn between different worlds. The film reminds us of the beauty and complexity of our roots and their lasting impact on our identity.

The filmmaker says that as the title itself firmly suggests, she believes that the world is not going to end with any failure, as one gets a second chance in life to prove himself or herself and such an opportunity must be availed at all costs to prove the world wrong. 

With this film, Subhadra Mahajan has emerged as a filmmaker with a distinct voice, blending personal narratives with universal themes. Her delicate treatment of cultural and emotional complexity, paired with a visually rich approach, distinguishes her in the world of contemporary cinema. Her direction is empathetic and immersive, pulling audiences into the protagonist’s journey and allowing them to see parts of themselves in his story.

One of the film’s most powerful assets is its stunning cinematography, which captures the beauty and diversity of India. The entire film, and not just its opening, is beautifully captured in stunning black-and-white by cinematographer Swapnil Suhas Sonawane, known for his work on ‘Last Film Show’, India’s official entry to the 2023 Oscars. Sonawane lets the natural beauty speak for itself, keeping the visuals simple, without adding more than what the eye already finds captivating.

The film travels from the peaceful mountains of Himachal Pradesh to bustling urban centres, creating a visual narrative that mirrors the protagonist’s emotional state. The serene countryside scenes — a part of the film was shot in -20 degrees Celsius at a height of 10,000 feet in Lahaul-Spiti — offer a sense of peace and grounding, contrasting with the frenetic energy of city life. Through a carefully chosen colour palette and lighting, the visuals underscore the film’s themes of inner conflict and reconciliation. Nature in Subhadra’s work is more than just a backdrop — it becomes a silent character embodying the protagonist’s longing for freedom and peace. The cinematography pulls viewers into a world where his pain and hopes are palpable, evoking both personal and universal.

Through a blend of storytelling, exquisite cinematography, and heartfelt performances, ‘Second Chance’ drew the viewers into a transformative experience at Dharamshala, making it a must-watch as it delved into questions of identity and belonging. Viewers felt that Subhadra Mahajan’s work has set a high bar in contemporary cinema and signals a promising future in narratives that explore the themes of rediscovery and return.

Besides Karlovy Vary International Film, the film also been showcased at the Busan International Film Festival. Subhadra says Indian cinema is driven by big stars, who overshadow editors, directors, cinematographers, etc, and insists that this needs to be changed in future. “The current system warrants a change, which shall happen with upcoming young talent. I am optimistic that such psychology will undergo metamorphosis as several films shot in rural background have made it to the international level. This can be a precursor for mandatory transformation.”

— The writer is a columnist based in Shimla