Black(2005)
'Black' is a 2005 Indian Hindi-language drama film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. It stars Amitabh Bachchan and Rani Mukerji in lead roles, with Ayesha Kapur, Shernaz Patel, and Dhritiman Chatterjee in supporting parts. The story follows Michelle McNally, a deafblind woman from Shimla, and her lifelong bond with her teacher Debraj Sahai, who later develops Alzheimer's disease. The film is inspired by the life and writings of Helen Keller. It received widespread critical acclaim for its direction, cinematography, and performances, particularly those of Bachchan and Mukerji. 'Black' won three National Film Awards and eleven Filmfare Awards, becoming the most-awarded film in the ceremony's history at that time. It was released theatrically on 4 February 2005 and was commercially successful, grossing ₹666 million worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Netflix
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 2005
- Director
- Sanjay Leela Bhansali
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 2m
- Rating
- 8.0/10
Storyline
Michelle McNally is a deafblind woman trapped in a world of silence and darkness. Her only hope is Debraj Sahai, a tough and unconventional teacher who refuses to give up on her. Together, they fight against impossible odds to break through the barriers of her disability. But when Debraj is struck by Alzheimer's disease, their roles reverse, and Michelle must become his teacher.
“A story of love beyond words.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Black
Cast reunions in this film: Rani Mukerji & Amitabh Bachchan (7 films together), Rani Mukerji & Ravi K. Chandran (3 films together), and Amitabh Bachchan & Ravi K. Chandran (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film is a loose adaptation of Helen Keller's life story, but it is not a direct biopic.
- Amitabh Bachchan learned sign language for his role and performed all his signing scenes himself.
- It was the first Hindi film to win the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in both Hindi and English categories.
- Rani Mukerji spent time at a school for the deaf and blind to prepare for her role as Michelle.
- The film's title 'Black' refers to the darkness experienced by the protagonist before her education begins.
- Sanjay Leela Bhansali considered the film his most personal work at the time of its release.
- The movie was shot over two years, partly because Bhansali wanted very specific lighting for many scenes.