Aamir Khan Critiques ‘Black’ as Insensitive and Manipulative, While Amitabh Bachchan Works for Free: A Deep Dive into the Film’s Impact on Child Welfare

Indian filmmakers often have a signature style. When they step out of that comfort zone, viewers pay attention. This was the case with Sanjay Leela Bhansali when he released Black in 2005. Known for his opulent sets in films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas, he took a bold turn with Black. Gone were the vibrant colors. Instead, he used a palette dominated by blues and blacks, creating a film that had no songs and targeted a niche audience.

Black tells the story of Michelle, a girl who cannot see, hear, or speak. Portrayed by Rani Mukerji and Ayesha Kapur, her life seems wild and chaotic. It takes an alcoholic teacher, Debraj (played by Amitabh Bachchan), to help her navigate her world. With a runtime of just two hours, the film received critical acclaim but hasn’t lingered in popular culture like other movies from that year, such as Bunty Aur Babli and Dus.

In one poignant scene, we see Michelle struggling with her family’s inability to care for her safely. Her father neglects her needs, leading to a dangerous situation around open flames. Rather than address the parents’ shortcomings, the film focuses primarily on Michelle’s ‘challenges.’ While Bhansali aims to showcase determination and courage, it sometimes veers into what feels like toxic positivity.

Many viewers and critics responded to these themes. Aamir Khan, known for being outspoken, expressed his disapproval of how the film portrayed Michelle. He felt that the movie glorified the mistreatment of the character, calling it “insensitive” and “manipulative.” He argued that the art direction and performances seemed exaggerated, creating a disconnect from reality.

Amitabh Bachchan defended the film, stating that he was deeply committed to its message. He believed so strongly in the project that he didn’t take any payment for his role, considering his participation a sufficient reward in itself.

Interestingly, Ranbir Kapoor was an assistant on this film and later shared his tough experiences working with Bhansali. He mentioned the intense pressure and discipline expected on set, stating that it prepared him for the film industry. Kapoor went on to work with Bhansali in Saawariya, which marked his acting debut. Even Alia Bhatt auditioned for the role of young Michelle but was ultimately rejected at just nine years old. Years later, she would successfully collaborate with Bhansali in Gangubai Kathiawadi.

Black stands out as a unique experiment in mainstream cinema, showcasing a more serious and challenging narrative compared to the typical crowd-pleasers of the time. While it was initially celebrated for its distinct storytelling, a deeper analysis reveals a complex interplay of themes that questions the notion of helplessness in the face of adversity.

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