Believe The Hype

WARNING: THIS POST CONTAINS VERY MILD SPOILERS

Sometimes when a film is being praised by a lot of people, there is a tendency for us to dismiss it. This is because when we watch it, we are challenging the film to impress us and to be honest, that is the wrong way to see a film. So, when I decided to see Pariyerum Perumal I had already heard a lot about it and was excited to see it. The one thing I can say about the film is that it lived up to the hype and then some. Dealing with such a heavy subject such as caste and equality can be a tricky topic but debutante director Mari Selvaraj pulls it off with astonishing ease. The script has a maturity that one would associate with a seasoned filmmaker. By refusing to give any easy solutions, the film manages to stay away from cliches that we might get in a film like this. It is easily one of the best films of the year.

There are many things about the film that stand out and this includes the performances and the music. Is the film flawless? That is for you to say. Kathir does an incredible job as we get to see someone who is helpless, brave, proud, vulnerable, happy, sad etc. It is tough to make acting seem natural but both Kathir and Anandhi do such a good job with their ‘love’ story and it is bound to put a smile on your face. Whether this film is going to bring about a change in society is secondary as the fact that we are talking about a social evil, is the true triumph of the film. When you see this film, you understand that a message does not have to be delivered with a sledgehammer but a glass of tea is all that it takes. That reference will be understood only by those who have seen the film. Its just my way of telling you to watch it and perhaps you too will celebrate it.

Until next time, bye.

Ranjith vs. Rajni

Let me begin by saying that I liked Kaala but wasn’t captivated by it completely. It is always a tricky task to make a film with someone who has transcended stardom as an actor. The big question with Kaala is how it would have been received had Superstar not entered politics. In my opinion, the reception would surely have been much better. The film also asks a fundamental question regarding its director. Is this a Pa. Ranjith film or is it a Rajnikanth film ? The problem with making a film with such a huge star is that sometimes, it may not be possible to put forth what you want to say. And, we all know the ideology that Ranjith has and it is quite evident in this film compared to Kabali. In the earlier film, it was merely hinted at whereas here it forms the crux of the story. And it seems to be more of a Ranjith film in this case. Ideally, when a director and star combine, you should be getting the best of both worlds. But, something seemed to be missing.

In my opinion, the duo and their sensibilities worked for the most part but I was left with one particular feeling. That would be the urge to see a film that is completely Ranjith or something that is out and out Rajnikanth. But therein lies a major problem with the audience and their expectations. As an actor, we have started to expect a certain a kind of film from the man himself. There are those who want him to experiment but when he does, do not seem to be appreciate it all that much. Whenever this happens, there is always talk of the vintage Rajni and how he’s missing. Perhaps it is a case of someone reaching a mythical status and that we have started to project our own expectations on the man. While the latest Ranjith-Rajni outing seems to have had a better reception compared to their first, not everyone is satisfied. Yes, it goes without saying that you cannot satisfy everyone. One can only hope that Karthik Subbaraj can come up with something that will appeal to almost everyone. All we can do now is wait and watch.

Until next time, bye.