The Role Poster

The Role 1977

★ 6.117 votes136 min📅 1977-11-11

"Odyssey of an actress. Daughter. Wife. Woman."

Shyam Benegal's The Role (1977) dives deep into the paradox of stardom, where glamour masks quiet despair. The film traces the life of a celebrated actress whose career begins as a family mandate rather than a personal calling.

Director: Shyam Benegal

Cast

Smita Patil
Smita Patil
Usha
Anant Nag
Anant Nag
Rajan
Naseeruddin Shah
Naseeruddin Shah
Sunil Verma
Amrish Puri
Amrish Puri
Vinayak Kale
Amol Palekar
Amol Palekar
Keshav Dalvi
Sulabha Deshpande
Sulabha Deshpande
Shanta
Kulbhushan Kharbanda
Kulbhushan Kharbanda
Harilal
Baby Rukshana
Young Usha
B.V. Karanth
B.V. Karanth
Usha's Father
Dina Pathak
Dina Pathak
Mrs. Kale

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Role (1977) about?

The film follows a talented actress whose career is dictated by her family, leading her into a world of superficial success and personal emptiness. As she navigates studio sets and unstable relationships, she confronts the growing divide between her public persona and inner self.

Who directed The Role?

Shyam Benegal, the acclaimed Indian filmmaker known for his realistic and socially conscious storytelling, directed The Role.

Who stars in The Role?

The film features Smita Patil in the lead role, alongside Anant Nag, Naseeruddin Shah, Amrish Puri, and Amol Palekar in pivotal supporting performances.

Is The Role (1977) worth watching?

With its sharp critique of fame and gender roles, The Role stands as a compelling drama that resonates with anyone interested in cinema's human cost. While unrated on IMDb, its thematic depth and stellar cast make it a rewarding watch for fans of parallel cinema.

How long is The Role?

The Role (1977) has a runtime of 136 minutes.

About The Role (1977) — Smita Patil's Haunting Journey Through Stardom and Sacrifice

Shyam Benegal's The Role (1977) dives deep into the paradox of stardom, where glamour masks quiet despair. The film traces the life of a celebrated actress whose career begins as a family mandate rather than a personal calling. Between studio lights and fleeting romances, she confronts the hollow promises of fame, the weight of societal expectations, and a growing sense of alienation that no role can fill.

A masterclass in subtle drama, Benegal's vision blends raw emotion with the stark realities of the film industry. Smita Patil delivers a career-defining performance as the protagonist grappling with identity, ambition, and the suffocating roles forced upon her. With its rich atmosphere and poignant themes, The Role (1977) remains a haunting exploration of artistry and sacrifice.