Watched PS-2 in 4DX today. I was the last to leave the theatre. I got up from my seat and stood there until the credits finished rolling. This movie deserves that gesture. This film is poetry. It is unlikely that we will witness another historical film with such profound depth, complexity, and artistic brilliance in our lifetimes. I shed tears a few times while watching the movie. Initially, I had intended to watch it again in the theatre. However, after today's experience, I prefer to preserve this memory for the rest of my life. I don't want to override that feeling by seeing it again in the theatre.
It is not a tale focused on Chola pride, but rather a poignant and intricately crafted human drama. The film does not rely on the conventional archetypes of hero and villain but instead delves into the ambiguous and nuanced aspects of human nature. It explores how Rajaraja Chola, despite the intense turmoil surrounding him, was able to preserve his inner morality and relinquish the mighty Chola throne that many would have killed or died to retain. It is this very quality that has ensured his legacy as a people's emperor to this day.
It is understandable why some people may find it challenging to connect with PS2, as it employs a poetic and metaphorical approach to storytelling rather than a straightforward narrative. This technique may not appeal to everyone. For instance, during Manthakini's death scene, PS2 incorporates an excerpt from Tamil Sangam literature, which deepens the scene's impact. However, the meaning of the song is only apparent to those who understand it, resulting in a more profound emotional response. In fact, the entire PS2 is full of such hidden references, which may make it harder for some to fully appreciate its nuances.
Maniratnam employs subtle nuances to create poetic moments throughout the film. For example, in the opening scene, young Nandini emerges from a pool of water. In the final scene, adult Nandini is depicted drowning in a pool of water, signifying the completion of the circle of life. In another scene, Nandini accepts Karikalan's love on the riverfront, and they ride off happily on a horse. As they ride happily, there is a long shot of the river horizon where the river meets the sky. However, a few seconds later, a mountain appears in the shot, dividing the river and the sky. This symbolizes the obstacles they will face in the future, including their families' disapproval and eventual separation. These subtle nuances are present throughout the film, adding depth and meaning to the story.
As I identified several small nuances in the film, I found myself in an incredibly evocative state. I have never felt so emotionally moved while watching a movie in a theatre before. It was as though I was under a spell and completely captivated by the poetic beauty of the story. When the movie ended, I sobbed and was in shock for a couple of minutes. I realized I had just witnessed something truly extraordinary. I decided to stand up and wait until the credits finished as a gesture of respect.
PS2 offers a truly magnificent cinematic experience, where every aspect has been executed flawlessly. Overall Ponniyin Selvan represents a magnum opus in Tamil cinema, and its impact will be felt for generations to come. With meticulous attention to detail, the film brings to life the 10th century Sri Lanka and South India with remarkable vividness, seamlessly incorporating even the smallest nuances of the era into the background. The film remains firmly rooted in Tamil culture and does not compromise to cater to the wider Indian or global audience.
The film is a technical marvel, reflecting the true Chola tradition of utilizing local talent while also drawing on the expertise of internationally renowned professionals such as Simon Rhodes, the Audio Mixing & Mastering Engineer for Avatar 2, Oscar-winning sound designer Craig Mann, and popular Hollywood sound engineer Greg Townley. A brilliantly well-made film. Thank you Manirathnam, Jeyamohan, AR Rahman and Ravi Varman for this poetry. There is no doubt that this will become a cult classic in Tamil. It will stand the test of time.
The film is a testament to the desire to reclaim and celebrate the illustrious legacy of the Chola dynasty. Chola Saga E̶n̶d̶s̶ Begins #CholasAreBack
No comments:
Post a Comment