'Thangalaan' is produced by KE Gnanavelraja of Studio Green. Since it is directed by Pa.Ranjith of 'Kabali' fame, the audience must enter the cinema hall expecting social commentary. Let's find out what the movie is all about.
Storyline:
Set in the 19th century, the tale of 'Thangalaan' unfolds around a supercilious Britisher named Lord Clement. However, the film is not about a freedom struggle. It is about Clement's ambitious quest to unearth the legendary gold reserves of the Kolar region and the consequences faced by a community of outcastes. The plot thickens when Clement turns his attention to the tribes of Veppur, a place that is renowned for its mining heritage. Thangalaan (played by Vikram), a local leader, is subsequently recruited to accomplish this perilous, conflict-ridden endeavor. With family in tow, Thangalaan embarks on this daunting challenge.
Performances:
Vikram returns with a banger of a performance. He pours his heart and soul into the act. Critics are going to call it an awesome performance in the coming years. The 'Aparichitudu' actor has put behind duds like 'Cobra'.
Malavika Mohanan as a sorceress named Aarathi is subtle. Parvathy Thiruvothu as the titular character's wife is grounded. Pasupathy is seen as the mandatory Brahmin character. Daniel Caltagirone as Clement is not hammy.
Technical Departments:
GV Prakash Kumar's music is fast-paced and intricate. A Kishor Kumar's cinematography is brilliant, suiting the complexity of the narrative. Editor Selva RK expects the audience to show patience. Art Direction by SS Murthi is authentic.
The action choreography by Stunner Sam is driven by the story and the limitations of the warring sides. Sound Design by Anthony BJ Ruban is nimble.
Analysis:
It is interesting that the film is being described as a creative attempt at revisiting history. There is no revisionism here, although there is plenty of alternative reading of known and less-known events. The allegorical references are sprinkled throughout.
One good thing about 'Thangalaan' is that it doesn't seem bloated despite a heavy narrative. The film is not ridden with twists. Instead, it is a drama that is laced with deep-dives and nuances. It is co-written by Ranjith and Tamil Praba. Azhagiya Periyavan wrote the original dialogues in Tamil.
If you have been aware of Pa.Ranjith's political outlook, you would appreciate a lot of what has been portrayed and depicted here. While he has been accused of presenting just one side of the truth by his critics, his attempt at building a foundation for Dalit storytelling in the mainstream film industry has been admired by his supporters. It is only a matter of time before he makes a Hindi film. The critical acclaim of 'Thangalaan' will be taken note of by a wider audience in due course of time.
'Thangalaan' may not appease the cravings of those who look for entertainment. It has been made for engagement. The film doesn't shy away from repeating some of its favourite themes during the course of its 150-minute running time.
Vox Verdict:
'Thangalaan' marries a tale of adventure and mining to a social commentary about the plight of the outcastes.
Rating:3
