Marian Miner Cook
Athenaeum

A distinctive
feature of social and
cultural life at CMC

 

Lawyers and Law in India: A View from Bollywood—Screening and Discussion of JOLLY L.L.B.

Thu, September 27, 2018
Dinner Program
Nita Kumar and Aseema Sinha, moderators

While Indian (Bollywood) movies typically show courts as unreal and dramatic, Jolly L.L.B. (2013), directed by Subhash Kapoor, is a satirical rendition of the reality of courtroom procedure in India, as well as on big money, corruption, and gritty ambition. Acclaimed by reviewers and audiences alike as well-acted and entertaining, the movie delivers a sharp sentence on Indian law. Professors Aseema Sinha and Nita Kumar, both at CMC, will lead a discussion on justice, corruption, and Bollywood.

Jolly L.L.B. tells the story of a small-town lawyer, Jolly, who files a public interest litigation against a rich young man who seems to have gotten away with murder. Defending the young man is Tejinder Rajpal, the most prominent advocate of the city, able to reduce Jolly to dust in the court. Yet, Jolly works hard, gathers evidence, and—learns to argue. In charge of the proceedings is Justice Tripathi, a curious, familiar mix of self-aggrandizement, idiosyncrasy, and—commitment to justice.

For those new to Bollywood, Jolly L.L.B. offers an introduction to the genre without the stereotypical slapstick, violence, and melodrama. 

For those familiar with the genre, Jolly L.L.B. offers solid direction, casting, script, comedy, and a serious plot line.

Movie screening will begin promptly at 5:30 pm.

(Parents Dining Room)

Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum

Claremont McKenna College
385 E. Eighth Street
Claremont, CA 91711

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