Papanasam : Movie Review
Background
Remakes have always been a regular feature in Indian cinema, since ages. Typically, re-doing a fairly successful film into other regional languages is considered as a safe bet for film makers, since it requires less effort in terms of re-writing the screenplay vis-a-vis developing a completely original one.
Over the years, its Malayalam cinema that has been the original inspiration for film-makers In the past. Classics viz. Manichitratazhu, Kireedam, Ramji Rao Speaking, Katha Paryambol, etc. have been some popular Malayalam films remade into various regional languages as well as Bollywood.
However, if / when the original film achieves cult status, the entire responsibility of maintaining its essence lies on the shoulders of the person recreating it. Major factors include the new star cast & the way in which the story is aligned to suit the newer audience, keeping in mind the common viewership as well!
Papanasam (2015) the latest one to join the bandwagon, is the Tamil remake of Drishyam (2014), which was already a run-away hit in Kerala. With Ulaganayagan (Universal Hero, as he is called in Tamil Nadu) Kamal sir, reprising the role of superstar Mohanlal (from the original Malayalam version), the expectations from the tamil audience were already rocket high, prior to its release.
Plot
The film revolves around Suyambu Lingam (played by Kamal Haasan), & his close knit family viz. wife, Rani (played by Gautami) & two daughters Selvi & Pulli Meena, (played by Niveda Thomas and Esther Anil) who lead a peaceful & contented life in Papanasam town, Tirunelveli District
Suyambu is a cable operator, not too educated, yet intelligent, street smart, having keen eye for detail. He is immensely passionate about cinema, so much so that he draws heavy inspiration from it in personal life too.
His fellow people have the highest regard & respect for him, and appreciate him for his unusual but simple approach towards life.
All is well, until one fine day, there is intrusion waiting to step into their lives. Whether they manage to tackle the same, or end up being the victim of circumstances, is what follows hereon.
Technical Aspects
Writer Director Jeethu Joseph showcases his prowess as a master story-teller. The USP of the film lies in its water tight script, screenplay & simplicity of narration.
Although, a bit slow in the beginning, once it picks up, the entire sequence of events, backed up by amazing visuals, and make-believe performances by the actors, makes it an exciting fare.
Cinematography by Sujith Vaassudev is picture perfect. Editing by Ayoob Khan could have been a bit tighter. Dialogues by Jeyamohan, mostly in local Tirunelveli dialect, add up to the rural flavour, Background score by Ghibran is entirely in sync with the narrative. Songs, though not contributing much to the screenplay are soothing.
Performance
Performance wise, Kamal Haasan, plays a village bumpkin, near to perfection. Having done quite a few unusual experiments in his last couple of outings, the superstar, he kind of relives his Moonrambirai, 16 Vayidinilaye, Swati Muthyam (Sippikul Muthu) characters (underplaying himself). People born / grown up in the 80s, 90s would relate with the character for sure!
Asha Sarath as IG Geetha Prabhakar is first-rate. Her character’s ruthless, yet tactful ways of dealing with people, is showcased beautifully.
Gautami plays her part well, but deserved few more intense scenes. The two young girls viz. provide excellent & adequate support to the leading pair.
Anant Narayan Mahadevan is a revelation. Although his screen presence in terms of length may be small, but he makes a strong impact, and does complete justice to his part. His confrontation scene with Kamal Haasan, towards the end is just outstanding.
Summary
Overall, Papanasam is pure cinematic brilliance, supported by top-notch performances from the cast & crew. It is one of those rare thrillers, where every frame has to be watched very carefully, to understand the crux of the story.
Hardcore cynics may be quick in pointing out loop-holes in the script, but end of the day, it doesn’t matter much, since on the whole, the feature does make you ponder!
It’s a refreshing & welcome change from the typical masala pot boilers and usual lifestyles of rich & famous.
Rating ****1/2
We The People 