Poignant and Spectacular
Two words that instantly come to mind resonating with the one and only cinematic representation of the Tamil literary classic, Ponniyin Selvan (trans, The Son of Ponni).
First and foremost, thankfully in hindsight, it is a blessing in disguise. That a film adaptation was attempted before but never materialized. That the film made it to the big screen now with the backing of modern technology; and most importantly, that it came to fruition under the unparalleled craftsmanship of Mani Ratnam.
When climactic frames usher in and the act rises to a dramatic crescendo, I walked away disappointed that I have to now wait several months before the sequel hits the screens. So epic and fierce is the first edition that fans and critics alike would have easily lapped up couple more hours. If the book ought to be read in that continuum; so, does watching the film.
Cinema is a medium where visual storytelling is of paramount importance and forms one half of a circle. It is a pivotal aspect that can make or break a film especially one bearing a deep historical significance. It is in this very area that ace director Mani Ratnam unquestionably hits a grand slam yet again.
A few breathtaking scenes that come to mind – Aditha Karikalan confronting an ailing Veera Pandian; Encounters of Nandini and Kundavai with the rivalry manifesting via their eyes, expressions and the aura; The duel between Arulmozhivarman (Ponniyin Selvan) and Vandiathevan in Sri Lanka; the magnificent battle at sea; Vandiathevan swaying demonically to the tune of “Ratchasa Mamaney” with the backdrop of the majestic Chola kingdom fort.
What could have been Kalki’s visualization when he wrote the classic seventy years ago? What optics do we – you, me and anyone – create and etch in our minds as we read the book? Besides I’d beg to ask Mani Ratnam if he envisioned the same way when he read the book first time. If cast and crew were the brush, the book and Chola history were the paint, the artist in Mani Ratnam has created an absorbing mural.
Cast and crew is arguably the other half of the cinematic circle. In this case, casting department has left no stone unturned. The outcome we see on screen gives us a feeling that the cast was fully immersed into Chola dynasty, its history, the culture and the nuances of the book.
Vikram as Aditha Karikalan is menacing. He is adept at swift variations – ruthless warrior chasing the Rashtrakutas, a doting brother, swagger portraying invincibility as a Chola prince and potential King.
Aishwarya Rai as Nandini is a revelation. This is unarguably her best performance ever. She is at ease weaving emotions in and out, and spinning chemistries in her multi-layered character.
Karthi as Vandiathevan is refreshing, dynamic and brings a lively energy playing the central character that has a presence spanning the entirety of the story. Along with a hilarious Jayaram (as Azhwarkadiyan Nambi), the duo run amok around the Chola kingdom and provide subtle timely laughs.
There couldn’t have been a better choice than Trisha for Kundavai aka Ilaiya Piratti. She exudes regality, grandeur, wariness while showing guardianship for the dynasty and the clan.
The surprise factor in casting choice was Jayam Ravi as Arulmozhivarman aka Ponniyin Selvan, the titular character. Be ready to appreciate an unexpectedly awe-inspiring performance. He aces it on all fronts – the gait, the charisma, the body language, the balanced histrionics. I can’t wait to see the character unfold more in the sequel.
In summary, nothing but a plethora of pluses. Measured depiction of Chola dynasty, airtight script with unwavering adherence to the book, stellar cast, soothing score with maestro Rahman at the helm, amazing camera and artwork, zero dramatics and a production oozing richness.
Book lovers – go watch the film. You will be drawn to read the book just one more time. Now with a visual precedent that the film has set.
Movie enthusiasts and others – go watch it anyway. You might be influenced to form a new hobby – reading – if you don’t already indulge in it. Also, any comparison to Bahubali has no relevance and contrasting with the same is pointless.
Poster Photo Source: Lyca Productions
PS: The character map (below, Source/Credit: Mani Gunaseharan) is a great aid to have in the back pocket. Here’s a link to the film’s Wiki.
