Akash Deep

Hmmm. How do I put it. Let me try. I’m not quite sure if it is wilful brilliance or just coincidence that this film falls in the realms of being a cult classic or an absolute dross, depending on your scale of cynicism from 1-10. 10 being the most cynical. A lot of questions will be asked about Marsh girl and her ability to survive as a loner for years in the dense marshes of NC. Dissecting the plot is a whole activity by itself. So, I’ll set that aside. If you are into slow burn, but meaningful plot that delves into problems that we still face, then you will love this one. The film is set in the 50s and 60s. The lead actor will go on to achieve huge success. She’s really talented.

I hope my friends don't find this review because I've been dissing the film from the lense of a casual movie watcher. On a critical note, during the time this film was released (1969), and given the political and social atmosphere within Armenia, it is quite a brilliant film. I'd like to add the caveat that, your perception of the film will depend on how much you know about Armenian history, or just doing some research before watching the film. There are different perspectives to how one can see the narration. Is this a film about the poet Sayat-nova, or is this a film that shows Armenia through the eyes of Sayat-Nova during his time. In many ways, I personally felt the film's director Sergei Prajanov was sending a message to the Soviet Union that Armenian culture and traditions will always win ahead of any political narrative. And it is quite fascinating how important Pomegranates are to Armenian culture. A definitive classic that is not for all, but purely for the Avant Garde enthusiasts.

Watch the film for Mamooka’s swag. Nobody else in this country carries that kind of swag especially when playing a cop. And I’m saying this as someone who thinks Mohanlal is the greatest actor this country has seen. This is a big screen film. If you want to feel the swag and relate to the movie, watch it on the big screen. Did you like Bheeshma Parvam? If yes, then you will love Christopher. Personally, I have issues on the way the story is narrated and the kind of message it sends to the masses. It touches on an important topic. But the solution to that issue shown in the film is unrealistic and definitely undermines the law and the justice system of our country. Yes, the narrative is true, what the film portrays is very real, but we are a country whose constitution grants a fair legal process and trial to the most dangerous criminals. So the message the movie sends can influence impressionable minds. Don’t get pulled in emotionally. Watch the film for what it is. It is a well made film for all types of audiences. I would definitely pay to watch it again and examine the plot line.

Amidst the major big budget releases, it is easy to miss this gem of a film. I wouldn't say it is a film that resonates with everyone. If you love animals, you will love the film. I'm glad that the Malayalam film industry continues to make films that are spectacularly relatable and portrays the reality of our nation and how nuanced our lives are. This is not a political film. This is a film about how our lives are intertwined with everything around us. Especially the animals we coexist with. But then, I'd be lying if I said there is no politics. It is not your run of the mill identity politics. It is politics of inclusion and compassion. Basil does a spectacular job fitting into the character with absolute ease. Indrans, after 3 or 4 decades in the film industry is finally getting the recognition he truly deserves. What an actor. Subtle and brilliant. Johnny Antony has been a revelation too. The only downside to the movie is that you kind of feel like the movie should have been longer with the plot line a bit more broader and deeper. Again, that's just my perspective. The music is very nice. The OST along with the narrative of the film just shows you how vulnerable animals are, and why we need to do so much more to care for animals and be more compassionate not just as individuals, but also as a society. Even policy making around agriculture and livestock needs to consider the perspective of animals, and a tunnel vision at a policy level can have massive negative ramifications that can go completely unnoticed simply because of how our society is structured especially in rural India. At the end of it, the film leaves you wanting for more and fills you with joy and relief. Brilliant script and pretty nice cinematography too. I'm truly impressed with the talent of Basil. Malayalam cinema will redefine how Indian cinema is perceived.