Rahman’s 10 Aces – Episode 3

The films listed in this series are in chronological order and do not reflect the quality of the soundtracks mentioned in this list.

Links to 1, 2

Today, I am looking at an album that can be described in one word. That would be unforgettable. The songs were a big part of this film becoming successful. Whether it was the breezy nature of Poo Pookum Osai or the now legendary dance in Vennilave, there was something for everyone. Rahman crafts a series of tunes that range from devotional to romantic and in Ooh La La La, a song that is just fun. There is not a single song that shows a dip in quality. The entire album is proof of the maestro working at the peak of his powers. This was the first time he worked with Rajiv Menon and every time they get together, we get some magical songs.

Until next time, bye.

Rahman’s 10 Aces – Episode 1

The films listed in this series are in chronological order and do not reflect the quality of the soundtracks mentioned in this list.

10 Aces

The idea for this series: pick ten albums that reflect the genius that is AR Rahman. With 10 days left for his birthday, here are 10 of his best, in my opinion of course. We start with the one that began this legendary career. Roja was a phenomenal debut for the then 25 year old composer. He produced a landmark soundtrack for a landmark film. We got glimpses of the man’s mastery of melody; his ability to create magic with the simplest tunes was and is a joy to listen to. The visuals and the music combine to bring out the feelings of innocence, love, longing and patriotism in an unforgettable manner. The best part about all this was that Roja was just a hint of what was to come. And for that, we are so happy and thankful.

Until next time, bye.

Back To The Future

WARNING: THIS POST CONTAINS NO SPOILERS

There is a particular feeling that I get whenever I watch a Mani Ratnam film. I guess it could be described as contentment. But it does not stop there as it goes on to spark this discussion within myself and with others. I want to talk about the various aspects of the film and that for me is the hallmark of a film by the master. As for Chekka Chivantha Vaanam, there is a lot to talk about. It ranges from the technical details to the scenes that made it and some that should have made it. But one thing was clear to me seeing the film, this is Mani Ratnam reinventing himself. Even a filmmaker as famed as himself is not above criticism and there were a few aspects that I did not like about his previous film. To see him go in a more commercial vein, feels exhilarating. This is his way of showing that he can make a film that is more crowd pleasing and yet have his own flourishes in them.

 

As for the film, this is one of the more intriguing films that Mani Sir has made since the turn of the millennium. I read a review that said the film would have worked better if it had been made in two parts and I’m inclined to agree with that line of thought. These characters are fascinating from the outset, so it would have been nice to explore them a little more. It is to the credit of the screenplay that we are left wanting more. The film manages to feel like both a throwback to the Nayagan and Thalapthi days but it feels fresh. If this is the direction that Mani Ratnam is going to go in, I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next.

PS: It is genuinely heartening to see this crimson sky turn into box-office gold.

Until next time, bye.