Jeerjimbe Review: An educative and entertaining film about childhood

Karthik Saragur’s Jeerjimbe is one of those films that make us believe in our dreams. And it does it so effortlessly. Considering that the film deals with the dreams and fears of a 13-year-old girl, Karthik has successfully crafted a story which is innocent yet intense, colourful yet painful, and dreamy yet uncertain — just like life itself.  

Cast: Siri Vanalli, Lavanya and Suman Nagarkar
Director:  Karthik Saragur

The story revolves around Rudri aka Ruddramma (Siri Vanalli) from Byakalahalli and her obsession with her bicycle provided by the government. While the innocent joy of cycling and the freedom of riding makes for a breezy first half, the mood changes when the focus shifts to child marriage, superstitions, rituals, the importance of childline number 1098, and the suppression of young girls who dare to dream. But the director deals with all this subtly.

It has taken two years for Karthik to release this film, but the wait is definitely worth it. Shot in rural surroundings, it is an all girls film except for a few male actors. Karthik has given equal importance to each and every character. The school episodes and the friendships are sure to take viewers back to their own school days. Episodes like the one about child marriage have been picked up from different regions and treated well by the director.

The episode of Rudri travelling 78 km to Bengaluru, and waiting in front of Vidhana Soudha to meet the Chief Minister seems authentic and inspirational. Suman Nagarkar lends good support in her cameo appearance. Educating students about the importance of 1098 through a street play makes for an informative addition. The film stretches in the second half, but not too much.

Charan Raj adds value with his music, while cinematographer Balaji Manohar has captured the green belt in full glory.

Jeerjimbe is an educative film that is also entertaining. Though a film made with mostly non-actors, it makes for surprisingly a flawless watch.