Chhaad: The Terrace Movie Review : Where space and identity intertwine

At first glance, Chhaad: The Terrace may seem like a familiar tale, but debutant director Indrani Chakrabarty (previously known for the National Award-winning documentary Ladakh Chale Rickshawallah) delves deep into the female psyche and the need for personal space. The film evokes strong echoes of Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own, exploring a woman’s quiet struggle for autonomy with an assured, nuanced touch that signals great promise.
The narrative follows Mitra (Paoli Dam), a teacher whose life is anchored by the terrace – a personal haven where she can think, observe, or simply be. Whether alone or in the company of friends, the terrace serves as her escape from the confines of daily life. However, when domestic tensions bar her from this space, her inner world begins to unravel.
One of the film’s triumphs is how the director treats the terrace not just as a setting but as a living, breathing presence – almost a character in itself. From the birds and plants that populate it to the quiet moments of contemplation it fosters, the terrace becomes a symbol of freedom and self-expression. Even when it isn’t visible on screen, its presence is felt through the evocative background sounds, seamlessly integrated with the cinematography and editing.
Though the film unfolds at a measured pace, its quiet moments speak volumes. Much is conveyed through unspoken gestures, especially in the interactions between Mitra and Mukul (Rajnandini Paul), where emotions simmer beneath the surface.
Paoli Dam delivers a deeply felt performance as Mitra, a woman constantly seeking validation from her indifferent husband, Sanjay (Rahul Arunoday Banerjee), who dismisses her aspirations. In supporting roles, Ranojoy Bishnu impresses as a young journalist, while Rajnandini Paul and Anuradha Roy make notable contributions.
Despite its somewhat predictable storyline, Chhaad resonates with its stark depiction of middle-class moralities and the quiet oppression that women often endure. The terrace, repeatedly emphasized as a space of liberation, becomes a metaphor for creativity and identity—both of which Mitra grapples with when it is taken away. This underlying theme lingers long after the credits roll, leaving audiences with much to reflect upon. Thanks to Paoli Dam’s compelling portrayal, Chhaad succeeds in making this journey both poignant and thought-provoking.