Gandhi (1982) is an epic biographical film that chronicles the life of Mahatma Gandhi, a pivotal figure in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule.
Directed and produced by Richard Attenborough, the film features Ben Kingsley in the title role and was released as a co-production between India and the United Kingdom. The screenplay, written by John Briley, spans Gandhi's life from a significant incident in 1893, when he was thrown off a train in South Africa for being in a whites-only compartment, to his assassination in 1948.
The film provides a detailed portrayal of Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance, highlighting key events such as his protests against racial discrimination in South Africa, his return to India, and his leadership in the struggle for independence. It also addresses the complexities of his relationships with other leaders of the time, including Jawaharlal Nehru and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and the challenges posed by the partition of India. The narrative emphasizes Gandhi's commitment to religious tolerance and his efforts to unify Hindus and Muslims during a tumultuous period in Indian history.
Released in late 1982, Gandhi was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing approximately $127.8 million against a budget of $22 million. The film received eleven nominations at the 55th Academy Awards, winning eight, including Best Picture, Best Director for Attenborough, and Best Actor for Kingsley. It was praised for its historical accuracy, production values, and the powerful performances of its cast, particularly Kingsley's portrayal of Gandhi, which has since become iconic.
Despite its accolades, Gandhi faced some criticism for its simplification of historical events and the near-deification of its titular character. Nonetheless, it was generally well-received in India, Britain, and the United States, and it remains a significant cinematic portrayal of one of the most influential figures in modern history. The film is recognized not only for its artistic achievements but also for its role in educating audiences about Gandhi's legacy and the principles of nonviolent protest.