In spite of rampant commercialism in the quality of films, creativity never lost its admirers.

Satyajit Ray's Shatranj Ke Khiladi and Shyam Benegal's Junoon were a labour of intelligence, conviction and precision. Even though they were dramatically different in temperament, the setting bore interesting resemblances in its backdrop that of British ruled India.

Ray, a master storyteller, painted a vivid picture of decadence in society against the medium of two hedonistic Nawabs engaged in a never-ending game of chess.

Junoon delicately illustrated the intricacy of human relationships and behaviour in the face of 1857's mutiny and its repercussions on a hapless English mother-daughter duo, also a target of an obsessed Nawab's affections, holding on for their lives.

These two belong on a prized shelf of any cinema enthusiast.

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