4/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Ethirneechal, 1968

Streaming on Youtube

To my mind three prolific film makers, Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Shyam Benegal and K. Balachander, have made consistently socially responsible movies over prolonged periods of time.

K.Balachander a hundred films over four decades, later adapted himself to the TV as well. 

Not only did K. Balachander, directed 100 films, but more importantly introduced scores of actors, technicians and musicians over those years. The kind of impact it has on the whole Tamil industry is unparalleled.

I do not think, there is anybody/anywhere in the world that has introduced so many hugely talented people.

K. Balchander had to figure in the list of 21. I chose Ethirneechal ( Swimming agains the Tide), as I thought it was aligned with the times.

Ethirneechal, is supposed to have been adapted from Sombhu Mitra's play, kanchana Ranga. 

Sentimental and melodramatic, you may get a feeling that you are watching a play. Despite these drawbacks, the drama is powerful and it definitely strikes a chord with the viewer.

As usual, K Balchander's songs are always appealing.

Nagesh is the highlight ably assisted by a dozen gifted actors.

A mandatory watch for youngsters who have it relatively easy these days.

Ethirneechal drives home the fact that we may not want to take things for granted and appreciate those very small things in life, which really matters.