Agreement, the 1980 Hindi movie starring Rekha, was a film ahead of its time. Directed by K. Ravi Shankar, the movie deals with a controversial topic that was not often discussed in Bollywood films of that era – marital rape.
Rekha, who is known for her powerful performances, plays the role of Neera, a woman who has been married to a wealthy businessman for five years. Despite having everything she could want, Neera is deeply unhappy in her marriage. Her husband, played by Naseeruddin Shah, is emotionally distant and frequently travels for work, leaving her alone for long periods of time.
One night, when her husband returns from a business trip, he forces himself on Neera, despite her protests. The scene is uncomfortable to watch and the film doesn`t shy away from the grim reality of marital rape. What follows is a legal battle as Neera seeks justice for the trauma she has suffered.
The film`s title, Agreement, refers to the agreement between husband and wife that is often signed before marriage. In the movie, this agreement is used in court to further the case of rape against Neera`s husband. The film`s climax is powerful as Neera fights against a society that is not willing to acknowledge the existence of marital rape.
Agreement was a bold and daring film for its time. It spoke out against a taboo topic that was rarely discussed in Indian cinema. Rekha`s performance was praised by critics and audiences alike, cementing her status as one of the most versatile actors in Bollywood.
Today, Agreement is still relevant as marital rape is still a widespread issue in India. The film serves as a reminder that it is important to have open conversations about difficult topics and to fight for justice for those who have been wronged. Agreement is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the realities of marital rape and the importance of speaking out against it.