Every dream begins small — sometimes behind a camera phone, sometimes behind a vegetable cart. Film Reel Star which is Produced by Jose Abraham, Monica and Nishil Kambati, beautifully captures this contrast between reality and reel life, blending human emotion with the digital age’s hunger for recognition.
Story – At its core, Reel Star is a heartfelt story of Bhanudas played by Bhushan Manjule, a small-town man with big dreams. By day, he lives an ordinary life, selling goods and managing family responsibilities. By night, he turns into a creator — shooting short videos, trying to express himself, hoping one of his “reels” will change his life.
What starts as a harmless passion turns into a powerful statement on today’s society — where fame often depends on luck, not talent, and where honesty struggles to survive among corruption and manipulation. The film cleverly uses the “reel” metaphor to show how people perform both online and offline, wearing masks to please others.
Direction & Writing – Director Simmy and Robin keeps the narrative simple but powerful. Instead of glamourising social media, Reel Star stays grounded — showing how digital dreams collide with real-life struggles. The screenplay flows smoothly, with moments of humour, heartbreak, and quiet rebellion.
The dialogues feel natural, like conversations overheard in a small Maharashtrian town. The writing highlights how hope can become both a lifeline and a trap when the world values appearance over authenticity.
Performances – The lead Actor Bhushan Manjule delivers a deeply relatable portrayal of Bhanudas — a man torn between duty and desire, between being responsible and being seen. His eyes carry the pain of invisibility and the spark of ambition.
The supporting cast, including the local politicians, friends, and social media opportunists, add realism and texture. No one feels like a caricature; everyone seems drawn from real life. And Prasad Oak has also done fabulous job.
Cinematography & Music – Visually, Reel Star is stunning in its simplicity. The camera captures the dusty streets, colourful markets, and intimate homes with authenticity. Each frame feels alive with emotion.
The background score beautifully complements the film’s tone — a mix of earthy beats and soft melodies that echo the inner turmoil of the protagonist. The songs, though few, are soulful and well-placed, especially the one that plays when Bhanudas finally faces the truth about his dream.
Verdict – Reel Star is not just a film — it’s a mirror held up to our times. It reminds us that fame can fade, but self-respect stays forever. It speaks for every ordinary person who dares to dream in an extraordinary world.
With its relatable storytelling and emotional honesty, Reel Star stands out as one of the most grounded and heartfelt Marathi films of the year.
Rating – 3.5/5*
