The power of cinema is so strong that it lingers in your heart for long and makes you think deeply and feel all kinds of emotions. That’s what great films do, and it’s exactly how I felt after watching the BAFTA-winning movie Boong, directed by Lakshmipriya Devi. Starring Gugun Kipgen, Bala Hijam, Angom Sanamatum, Vikram Kochhar, Nemetia Ngangbam, and more, this beautiful story touched me in ways I can’t forget. Here’s my full review. So, keep on reading!
Plot
The story follows a small boy named Brojendro, also known as Boong. He lives in Imphal with his single mom, Mandakini, but his life feels incomplete because his dad vanished years ago. Then one day, villagers claim that his dad might be dead. However, Mandakini refuses to accept it and holds on to the hope of meeting her husband. Boong sees how sad she is and decides he has to fix it. He wants to bring his dad home as a gift and surprise her. With no real plan, he teams up with his best friend Raju, and the two kids set off on what starts as a fun adventure but turns into something much bigger and riskier.
They left home secretly and headed to Moreh with money, no map, just big dreams and bravery. To cross the border without anyone stopping them, they did something crazy. They hid inside a funeral car, next to the body of Juliana’s grandfather, covered with flowers.
Once they cross the border, the world changes. They face new people, strange places, language barriers, and dangers that kids their age should never have to deal with.
Performances
Gugun Kipgen as Boong is pure magic on screen. He brings so much life to the role, be it the mischief in his eyes, energy when he’s running around causing trouble, quiet strength when things get tough, and this vulnerability that hits you right in the feels. You believe every second of his determination, and by the end, you’re cheering for him like he’s your own little brother. He carries the whole movie on his small shoulders, and honestly, give this kid all the awards already.
Bala Hijam as Mandakini is gentle and strong at the same time. She does not shout or break down loudly. Instead, her suffering can be seen in her sighs, eyes, and the way she keeps hustling every day.
Angom Sanamatum, as Raju, is perfect. His funny one-liners and loyal friendship with Boong feel so natural. Their bond reminds you of those childhood friendships where you just stick together no matter what. It made me miss my old school gang so much. Honourable mentions to Vikram Kochhar as Raju’s dad and Nemetia Ngangbam as the kind girl who helps them – everyone feels so real and fresh.
Verdict: A Tender Manipuri Coming-of-Age Tale That Hits Every Emotional Note And Deserves All Global Praise!
The visuals are a major win. From the greenery to their lifestyle, everything feels alive and honest in a way that it made me want to visit and see it myself. The colours are soft and natural, never too bright or dramatic, which fits the story’s tone perfectly.
The heart of the film is all about friendship, family, and holding on to hope. Boong and Raju share this unbreakable bond that feels so pure and innocent. They argue, laugh, protect each other, and face dangerous things together. It’s the kind of friendship that makes you smile and feel warm inside. The movie also talks about bigger things like racism, missing loved ones, and the struggles in border areas, but it never gets preachy. Everything comes through the kids’ innocent view, so it stays light even when it’s tragic.
Of course, no movie is perfect. The start moves a bit slow as it sets up everything. It takes time before the adventure really kicks in, so you might feel impatient at first. However, later the pace picks up.
Still, such small flaws don’t take away from how special Boong is. It’s a small film with a huge soul and heart. It reminds us that childhood is full of hope, bravery, and enduring bonds. The BAFTA win for Best Children’s & Family Film feels so deserved.
So, go watch Boong in theatres if you can. The big screen will make you smile harder but also remember to carry tissues because some scenes will hit you hard.
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