37/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Today we shall focus on 25 important films which influenced us since 1990. 

Except for Bharathiraja, whom I had already visited in this series all the other 24 directors and their work, have not been discussed till now.

These works are either world cinema, cult classics, great works of art, commercial block busters and/or great initiatives that were ahead of times, works which greatly influenced the growth of cinema itself and representatives of how the society itself wanted to break free of the clutches imposed on them. 

Thanks to all these film makers for enriching out lives beyond measure.

Here is the list and a brief note

1. Puthiya Pathai, 1989, Parthiban

Parthiban has been a great gift to the Tamil industry, While Puthiya Pathai was a heart wrenching experience, Parthiban has been one person who has experimented so much until the recently released Otha Seruppu. Parthiban may very well surprise us with something spectacular in the future

2. Kizhakku Vasal, 1990, R.V. Uthayakumar

This is a super special offering from R.V. Uthayakumar, with scintillating music from Ilayaraja. While Karthik, Revathy, Janakaraj and Khusbhoo vie for acting honours, it was Shanmugasundaram who stole the show. Vijayakumar in a way was also unforgettable in the role.

3. Amaidhi Padai, 1994, Mannivannan

A cult classic. Sathyaraj and Amaidhipadai have their place in the hearts of Tamil cinema viewers. 

4. Aasai, 1995, Vasanth

Vasanth is one of those directors, who should have accomplished a lot more than he has. Aasai was a very satisfying thriller and some people feel that Aasai is a clever tweak of Uthiripookal. By the way, Not sure, if I read somewhere that Yugi sethu had unofficially written the script for Asai

5. Gokulathil Seethai, 1996, Agathiyan

While Agasthiyan is celebrated for Kadhal Kottai. I liked Kathal kavithai, Vidukathai and Gokulathil Seethai. An interesting and important story especially about the importance and the capability to take decisions. 

6. Anthi mantharai, 1996, Bharathiraja

A lovely love story of the elderly, with some great performances by Vijayakumar and Jayasudha. I liked it very much when I saw it in 1996. never got to see it again

7. Kadhal Desam ( 1996), Kadhalar Dinam (1999), Kathir

The signature style of Kathir in narrating the love stories in a grand manner is unique and that much more adds flavour to the variety of Tamil cinema

8. Kauppu Roja, 1996, Panner/Abavanan

Abavannan and the students from the Film institute did their bit to enhance the quality of Tamil Cinema. Abavannan wrote the story for Karuppu Roja, which was the first DTS cinema. Its first shot to educate the viewers about the possibility of DTS is unforgettable. I loved the action choreography in the second half and I thought with limited budget the team aimed high and reasonably executed the film well. I saw it a couple of times in Abirami when it was released and it was quite a spectacle on the big screen

9. Kadhalukku Mariyadhai, 1997, Fazil

A cult classic. Two actors or shall we shalll the two actor's eyes, Srividhya and whoever acted as Shalini's mother, alone ensured that the movie was catapulted to rarefied heights. The climax is unbelievable stuff and reasons why we go the movies.

10. Soorya Vamsam, 1997, Vikraman

A simple story that will have timeless appeal. An evergreen classic. Shall we say this is Vikraman's best?

11. Terrorist, 1998, Santhosh Sivan

Dil Se and Terrorist, two films on suicide bombers were produced by Madras Talkies at the same time. Terrorist was sold possibly sold to john malkovich. We now, only have the title that says, John Malkovich presents. Santosh sivan is in great form and we wonder why he does not make more movies as much as he should. Arthouse variety. Demonstrates that we can make world cinema and as good as anybody should we decide to put our hearts. And Oh! yes, btw, he was the cinematographer who was recently shot Darbar!!!

12. Vaali, 1999, S.J. Suryah

I remember taking my office mates to this movie at Devi cinema and they were quite unimpressed at the beginning, and as the movie progressed, the entire cinema hall was in tensed silence. It had an instant appeal and will remain an instant cult classic. By the way, beginning with Vaali, Simran swayed ('Nilavai Kondu Vaa') the consciousness of the Tamil youth for another five years till her Tappanguthu in Pithamagan. 

13. Bharathi, 2000. Gnana Rajasekaran

One of the most important films on one of the most important Indians who will influence the thinking of Indians and Tamilians for ever. Gnana Rajasekeran went on to make films on Periyar and Ramanujam. I had the pleasure of meeting Sayaji Shinde in 2014. Wanted to understand why he did not get the best actor award. I believe that his voice was dubbed. A great performance which helped, effectively narrate the story of the grand old man of Tamilnadu, that reached a vast section of today's youth.

14. Kandu Kondein Kandu Kondein, 2000, Rajiv Menon

A warm story, with a grand visual appeal and a grander music from A.R. Rahman, The movie may be forgotten but not A.R. Rahman's music.

15. Ramana, 2002, A.R. Murgadoss

A.R. Murgadoss started his career with Ramana at about the same time as Boong Jon-Ho. While in 2020, Boong Jon-Ho won the Oscar, Murugadoss ended up making Darbar. If you had an opporuntiy to watch Host(Boong Jon-Ho's first film) and Ramana, you will for sure be able to understand, that Murugadoss's understanding of cinema is top class and certainly no less than Boong Jon-Ho. After his extraordinary first film, one feels sad that Murugadoss has slowly allowed himself to drift. Ramana is one more unforgettable film in the great films made in Tamil cinema history.

16. Kakka kakka, 2003, Gautham Vasudev Menon

GVM's best till date. Super fast, Slick and a pure adrenalin rush. Thrilling, disturbing and dark. Technically brilliant. It is another unforgettable film in the Tamil cinema history

17. Mozhi, 2007, RadhaMohan

Radhamohan and Prakash Raj(producer) made clean entertainers, and came up with Mozhi, Abhiyum Nanum, Payanam and others films. They tossed up lovely comedies with great social messages. Mozhi is a wholesome comedy that has an unforgettable quotient.

18. Kanchivaram, 2008, Priyadarshan

The wildly talented, Priyadarhsan continues to be a prolific film maker. His variety of films is very rich. And some of it is rubbed in Tamil cinema, the superlative Gopura Vasalile and the thought provoking Sometimes. But Kanchivaram is special.

19. Arai En 305, 2008, Simbudevan

Simbudevan's 23am Pulikesi is cult classic. For Arai En 305 was far more ambitious and aspired to raise the bar for Cinema as well as the audience. What if God is tripped of this powers?Content rich, it had you thinking on some of the fundamental aspects of life. If I remember correctly, After all the years. V.S. Raghavan who had been typecast had a great role in Arai En 305

20. Anjathe, 2008, Mysskin

Myssins' best till date. He mixed a good thriller with melodrama and sentimentality and the end product was extremely heavy. It is another slice of unforgettable Tamil cinema

21. Eeram, 2009, Arivazhagan

Now this is possibly one of the most underrated films made. To me this movie is near perfect. Can a horror/thriller be so pleasant? Have always been surprised that Adhi, who was so good, never got the really big breaks. The look and feel, the music and the bewitching pace of the film all made this inot one heady mix.

22. Madrasapattinam, 2010, Al Vijay

Could Chennai/Madras' s history have packaged so well. AL Vijay after making this extraordinary movie flattered to deceive. One would have loved to see a better filmography. I remember Madrasapattinam for the brilliant cameo by my Facebook friend, Karthik Tmk. 

23. Engeyum eppodhum, 2011, M. Saravanan

Charming love stories narrated in a sizzling way. The climax was brilliant. It found its way into the heart of all Tamil Cinema viewers

24. Kalyana Samayal Saadham, 2013

This finds its way in this list for its content and courage to discuss issues that normally do not get discussed. The bar was raised and we had a cute film that shred hypocrisy to bits. 

25. Kuttra Pathirikkai, 1991 - 2007

You may be surprised why a flawed and a failed film finds its way into the list of 25. America had the guts to make JFK and Malcolm X almost at the same time. In a democracy, different points of view, need to be at least heard. 

Around the same time R.K. Selvamani, launched Kutra Pathirikkai to make a film on the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. 

The makers of Kuttra Pathirkai had to run from pillar to post between 1991 to 2004 to get their film released and then when the film was released in 2007, after cuts its had morphed into a love story. Not sure of how much he must have lost, probably a good portion of the prime of his youth. As a film lover and a fellow citizen, the least I can do is write a note of admiration. Here is celebrating the perseverance of Selvamani and his collaborators.

What a shame!!! I guess people need to have their freedom to express their points of view. We can either choose to agree with it , react to it or ignore it, but for heaven's sake let us not shut the mouth of individuals with whom we do not agree!!!

I may have missed other good works of cinema. No offense meant. Look forward to great cinema in the times to come.

36/40, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Autograph, 2004, Thavamai Thavamirundhu 2005, Pokkisham, 2009, Cheran

In the next five days, intend to focus on important film makers and films that I may have left out in this series

Between 2000 and 2010, Cheran strode like a colossus in the Tamil Cinema.

Besides the above three he made equally moving films like Porkalam, Bharathi Kannama and Pandavar Bhoomi.

Cheran was ever socially conscious, and aimed for the heart.

Autograph was a clarion call for the youngsters to get hold of themselves and fight.

Thavamai Thavamirundhu could pass of as an ode to Ramayana and the father. I looked forward to Thavamai Thavamirundhu when it was released in 2005 and saw it Albert on the first day first show. It took of from the first frame and you had a moist eye all along the three hours and twenty four minutes of the film.

Pokkisham was truly a Pokkisham (treasure). It is not easy to adapt Bridges of the Madison County. It is probably a great tragedy, that Pokkisham was not accepted at the box office. Pokkisham was all poetry, and one of the most underrated GEMS of unrequited love. 

Cheran, will always remain in the hearts of cinema lovers as one of the greatest talent of Tamil Cinema, who could have made atleast 5 good films between 2010 to 2020.

35/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil movie recommendation

Super Deluxe, 2019, Thyagarajan Kumara Raja

Four writers Thiyagarajan Kumar Raja, Nalan Kumaraswamy, Myskkin and Neelan K Sekar, together worked together to get Super Deluxe right.

I guess they took their own sweet time to get things together, but the end product is worthy of their efforts.

Not sure if any other film ever attempted to discuss the deepest philosophy through the the most easy to understand stories.

This movie is also another classic case where the writers and the film maker is having a lot of fun.

We can wait for Thyagarajan Kumar Raja, for probably another 8 years, I am sure we may have nothing to complain.

Here is my brief review of Super Deluxe when it was released

Profound and Stunning

Five star film making, that teases, tickles and at the same time sets you thinking about the travails of human existence and journey.

While many of the stories may be have been borrowed and adapted, the movie raises the bar, and is a much needed social commentary, that is bound to trigger a lot of conversations.

I am not really bothered that the film may have been influenced by other works of art, but to me, the movie questions the quintessential HYPOCRISY that engulfs our society.

Rajajgopalachari, would have been mighty pleased, that his short story "Hunchback Sundari", has been adapted beautifully, into the Vijay Sethupathi segment. Sundari's daughter always saw the mother as beautiful. the form(her hunchback), was not significant. Here the Hunchback has been mapped to a transgender. The profoundness of the concept needed be retold and I am so glad somebody adapted it this well.

While I enjoy Vijay Sethupathi, I always though he has a knack of making an impact, despite being repetitive. The look and feel would change, but we would end up seeing only Vijay Sethupathy. Mercifully, he has an opportunity to get to play the role of his life time, making our hearts melt.

While all acting performances are near perfect, Bags, Bagavathy perumal sizzles. His eyes are menacing, villainous and lecherous. The swag adds to the sizzle.

The technical quotient of the film is top class and so is the music

Hats off, to the entire team to put this together for a common man to savour and ultimately be able to think on the most profound philosophies of life.

Watch it with ADULT FRIENDS and ADULT family members and indulge in conversations, that are very much needed.

The Acceptance of Super Deluxe is also an indication whether Tamil Nadu/India is evolving.

34/40, #locdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Mari Selvaraj is another talent to watch.. He is a master story teller. Understand his roots so well. Pa. Ranjith's Neelam production is also another production house to watch out. 

Whether you subscribe to Pa. Ranjith's philosophy or not, you have to respect his earnestness. 

Irandam Ulaga Porin Kadaisi Gundu, his second movie from his production house is equally thought provoking. Pa. Ranjith's understanding of arts is top class. . He is certainly here to stay, to produce interesting movies that will provoke essential conversations. 

But there seems to be an under current of deep resentment and anger that seems to run through. It is but natural. However I think film makers like M. Manikandan may have answers to a more effective approach. 

Positive strokes, can be a better catalyst. 

MS and PA, Look forward to great movie experiences. BTW: Please do not waste you time on making movies like kabali or kala.

Here is my review of Pariyerum Perumal when it was relased.

Pariyerum Perumal. 2018, Mari Selvaraj

After the disappointing CCV of Thursday ,Paradise had been lost, but by Sunday evening, thanks to Pariyerum Perumal, Paradise was regained.

I could never imagine an opening, the elegy on the death of Karuppi, a mongrel, could set the screen blaze, and pump your adrenalin, a tad, faster than a James Bond film, opening.

Wow, Santhosh Narayan, we are truly blessed.

Between the elegy of the death of Karuppi, and thought provoking poetic ending, is a known tale, retold masterfully by Mari Selvaraj, aided by technical brilliance and top notch performances.

Kathir is terrific as Pariyerum Perumal. His eyes are so sensitive and intense, fluctuating between tenderness, sadness, happiness, hurt, resolve and anger. Not to miss out are his vigour and vitality. That represents an actor with a great range of abilities,

Well, I am not letting out the cat out of the bag, but I was blown over by the Assasin's character and his values. I have always admired Jackal, in the Day of the Jackal, as the greatest professional, once commissioned, never needed any follow ups, There were quite a few things to learn from this assassin, as well. Thanks to the writer and the director, for coming up with this character.

Go watch, Pariyerum Perumal to experience the magic of film making!!!

33/40, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Kakka Muttai, 2014/2015, Andavan Kattalai, 2016, M. Manikandan

Innocence and Integrity

Manikandan is one of those wise young men, to watch out. Mercifully one of the few directors in Tamil Cinema who has extraordinary social consciousness and yet never gets bogged down by the CASTE FACTOR.

The social commentary is conspicuous, underlined by a lament, but strives to focus on positive energies that can unleashed from within.

There are no villains, and as he mentions in an interview, the situation is the villain.

In all the three films that he has written and directed, the writer dominates the proceedings, and it so heartwarming to note that the smallest of the small characters are so thoughtfully constructed. or shall we say, sculpted.

The negative emotions are dumbed down, even the sarcasm is always diluted, the wit and charm overpowering the sarcasm.

There is a certain sense of idealism and the timelessness of the values that propel, his movies, as endearing and enduring messages of hope.

Kakka Muttai

Innocence

There are so many interpretations of Kakka Muttai, for me the innocence of the Junior and Senior Kakka Muttai, will always be indelible from my hear and soul.

The loss of innocence may the greatest damage done to our social fabric

Watch the eyes of kakka Muttai, there are oxygen for your soul.

Andavan Kattalai

Integrity

We had Hrishkesh Mukherjee make Satyakaam and K. Balachander remake Satyakaam as Punnagai, one of the best movies made on Integrity.

Manikandan writes a pleasant tale on integrity that most certainly would have reached nook and corner of the lowest strata of the society.

With his characteristic humour that runs right through, Manikandan, narrates a simple story, that surprisingly unfolds with many layers that seem to be peeling of scene after scene.

It is so light and yet clever and there are incremental laughter's, scene after scene.

Vijay Sethupathi is a natural and he hardly seem to be acting. The charm of Vijay Sethupathi is asphyxiating. He enhances the proceedings by light years.

Rithika Singh, is intoxicating, providing a perfect foil for Vijay Sethupathi.

You just cannot have enough of Yogi babu's swag. 

There is an army of others including, the Judge, the lawyers, the Regional Pass post officer, the administrative officer at the passport office, the Pimp at the passport office, the real estate broker, the mother, the sister, the brother in law, the racketeers, the Srilankan Tamil and eve the interviewing officer at the British Commission who are all flesh and blood of characters who adorn our daily existence.

Watch these two films today, I guarantee you that you will be as refreshed after taking a bath in a flowing river.

32/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesould, Tamil Movie

Iraivi: 2016, Karthik Subbaraj

When Iraivi was released in 2016, the audience was divided over the film. A deeply disturbing film, this is certainly not easy viewiing.

Iraivi is a priceless gem as 'discomfort' is discussed in style and ease. A rare occurrence in Tamil Cinema. 

These are topics that will be timeless and provide a great opportunity for a society to have a conversation.

Karthik Subbaraj's versatility is unquestionable and will end up surprising us in times to comes as well.

Here is my review when the movie was released.

Iraivi : As poignant as it can get

Ever since I saw Iraivi last Saturday, it has been intersecting with my consciousness continuously. Thoughts have been triggering on so many fronts that I seriously do not know where to begin.

At the outset, Karthik Subbaraj, has to be commended for coming out with a film that is different from his earlier two successful films.

Iraivi is as hard hitting as it can be. The message is there and so are the messengers, but well there is no sermon!!! That is a leap in story telling!!!

Rip, Rip and Rip. The social fabric is being ripped every second right in our front of our eyes. We may even contribute to it unknowingly!!! We meet many ‘Iraivis’ in our day to day to lives.

It is just not enough that a man marries, but he has a responsibility to his wife and his child as well!! Alcoholism and emotional foolhardiness adds upto shackling families for generations together.

I see an ‘Iraivi’ in my house for the last twenty one years. Rani, our household maid. Earliest images of her were coming to the house in 1995 with her two years old to perform the household chores. She had three sons. Her husband was a drunkard. She had the responsibility of raising the three sons. Two of them were lost around 2000 to be found after a gap of 11 months. She lost her husband to alcoholism and one of her son’s committed suicide at a later point of time. The eldest son got married recently to leave her to fend for herself with her last son. Her last son in the early twenties pursues amorous activities, continuing to agonize her. She lives with endless debts. Always at the edge, battling as hard as she can. Will this Iraivi, ever come out of her ‘circle of misery’?

I initially thought that women of Iraivi, were probably shown very dependent on men. Probably the women seemed a bit belonging to the 70s and 80s. In fact I was reminded of Mirch Masala, where Smita Patil would confront Naseerudin Shah boldly, but when her husband leaves the village, Smita Patil would not be able to draw upon similar courage to confront Naseerudin Shah in a similar encounter. Would the women of 2016 be so dependent on men?

Well I do not think the director meant it as an affront to the ladies, as the script is a conscious effort to drive home a much bigger point.

As to the matters of heart and mind, the education or social strata may not have a direct bearing on their behaviour

Despair stares almost evenly at different women, but different choices are made. Anjali’s at lower strata of the society, is shocked, but smoothly transitions to resolve, but Kamalini Mukherjee, the educated working women is unable to come to terms with reality. Subtlety at its best.

As in Jigarthanda, Karthik sizzles in the climax. In fact the climax lingers and steadily grows on you.

You could feel a bit of Fellini, Innaritu and the good old bard, but Karthik Subbaraj with his inimitable style stands tall and ‘hefty’.

I felt I got into a boat and allowed myself to enjoy the ride with Karthik, the boatman, taking me through a pleasurable ride. The river could have had its quota of turbulence, but the boatman was in complete control.

Frankly I did not get disturbed after seeing the film, I was refreshed and relaxed and satisfied that responsible cinema could be in most palatable commercial format.

I was also happy to see people accepting it.

Thanks, Karthik, for respecting the audience and raising the bar!!!.

We want some more, We want some more.!!!

31/40, Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Mundasupatti, 2014, Ram kumar

Mudasupatti, combined the lovely charm of the village, recreating the nostalgia of the 80s, wafted with the innocence of the villagers, tossed it up with the a gentle romance and served it in slow burn style that cooked up into explosive laughs.

Ram Kumar came back 4 years to serve the taut Ratsasan. He is yet another director to watch out.

Here is my review of Mundasupatti, when it was released in 2014

Mundasupatti(The village of Turbans), Tamil Film: The perfect idiot, just got better

One helping the Sunday before last was not enough, and the second helping today seemed to have only increased my appetite for Mundasupatti.

The epitome of a perfect idiot has always been Kali N Ratnam, in Sabapathy, the 1941 flick, produced and directed by AV Meyyapan(AVM). Mr. Ratnam effortlessly deep dived into moronic activities punctuated by eye popping stares which sent us into a tizzy. The record for the perfect idiot which stood in the name of Kali N Ratnam, for a period of 73 years at last has been broken by Ramdas, who enacts and emotes the moron MunishKanth, with aplomb. The perfect idiot just got better. Munishkanth will be remembered for a long time to come, not that we will be able to forget the senior Mr. Ratnam.

Not that others are left behind. In almost equal measure, Kali, the hero’s side kick, manages to steal the thunder from Munishkanth with his wisecracks and whispering one liners. They do come fast and furious. Munishkanth gets the edge over Kali simply because we are familiar with characters like Kali.

Oh! Yes, Vishnu sends your heart into a flutter, and charms you with his smile, dimple, a wig that fits him like a glove and seems to float around the screen as if he were on moon. And yes, he does resemble, Akshay Kumar ,while he smiles. He is a joy to behold.

Nanditha, is a recreation of Bhagyaraj heroine of 1980s, and reminds you of Sulakshana in Thooral Ninnu Pochu. Her eyes, does all the talking. It is wonderful to see the half saree adding to so much of feminine grace. Don’t you think the death sentence given to the half sarees by the ladies in TamilNadu should be reconsidered?

Remember a few years ago, “Azhagar samiying Kuthirai” pulled the carpet under Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara to win the best picture for popular entertainment. Mundasupatti is clever morph of Azhagar samiying Kuthirai.

And to the man who makes your rap all the way through a most enjoyable dirge, probably a first of sorts, music director, Sean Roland, is a man to watch out. Sean was brilliant in “VaayaI Moodi Pesavum”. He does one better.

One more short got made into a full length feature film and Ram Kumar, is one more first film director who makes a mark. The seriousness of film making lies in the small details. In one of the sequences a few days after Nanditha's marriage has been called off, is a sequence where half her palms are exposed to the camera and you would not have probably paid attention if she had the mehndi or not. But Nanditha’s palms gets exposed to the camera for a fleeting second, Nanditha’s Mehndi is fresh.

Over the last four years, we have seen a quiet revolution, Content and Quality, alone seem to be the driving factors, first film directors, first film music directors, unknown and less known heroes and heroines continue to be accepted in droves by the audience. Producers like CV Kumar need to be appreciated for encouraging this activity.

In land where hero worship ruled the tinsel land for almost sixty years, the technicians in Tamil Cinema are indeed calling the shots. This is revolution. And hopefully this permeates in other spheres of life

30/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Pannayarum Padminiyum, 2014, Su. Arunkumar

I could qualify this one of those 'literary' and poetic movies, that gladdens your heart and moistens your eyes even when you think about it.

It had a great new director, who surprised us by making a U-turn to do the likeable Sethupathi, and introduced, Justin Prabhakaran, who pampers us with his melodious tunes, as recent as Dear Comrade.

You cannot miss Vijay Sethupathi angling for those wonderful roles which play second fiddle to the protagonist and enrich his filmography beyond measure.

Here is my review of Pannayarum Padminiyum when I saw it in 2014.

For Non-Tamil Speaking friends, the title roughly translated into "The Landlord and his Premier Padmini"

I am taking the liberty of reproducing the Nobel Prize award acceptance of Prof Nash, whose life was captured in the movie, A beautiful mind.

Quote

Nash: Thank you. I've always believed in numbers and the equations and logic that lead to reason.

But after a lifetime of such pursuits, I ask,

"What truly is logic?"

"Who decides reason?"

My quest has taken me through the physical, the metaphysical, the delusional -- and back.

And I have made the most important discovery of my career, the most important discovery of my life: It is only in the mysterious equations of love that any logic or reasons can be found.

I'm only here tonight because of you [wife, Alicia].

You are the reason I am.

You are all my reasons.

Unquote

In Pannayarum Padminiyum, the object of affection and unconditional love for an entire village, is an inanimate Premier Padmini which accidentally lands into the Pannayar's(Landlord's house).

Not only do the three principal characters vie for their engagement with the Padmini, but also the little boy down the lane who is putting up a sum of Rs. 5/- to get a seat in the front seat for a promised joy ride in the car.

The little boy grows into a man and buys a snazzy car. He travels back to his town, bereft of any enthusiasm, accompanied by a constant nagging thought of his unrequited desire of having not been able to take the joy ride in the front seat of the Premier Padmini. As he parks his car in front of the landlord's house, aching for a view of Padmini, he just finds the Padmini cruising towards him and stopping just short of him. And finally when he gets the opportunity to sit in the front seat and realise his dreams, watch him disowning his snazzy car.

Forgive me for letting out the beans, but for me the climax of Pannayaram Padminiyum is very creative, unique in many ways, liberating and a celebration of life.

The seeds of the mysterious equations of love remain in the virtues of empathy, understanding, giving and no conditions. In Jayaprakash and Thulasi's relationship are enshrined the magical equations of a successful marriage and relationship.

The charismatic Vijay Sethupathy manages to hold his own against the backdrop of Jayaprakash and Thulasi's power performances.

Justin Prabhakaran, the music director is another great talent to watch out.

Not only is the movie about love but it is also about living and in the present, savouring the dainty little precious things which we take for granted.

If the director could have chopped of thirty minutes especially in the first half, this could have been a greater experience.

For the patient film viewer, the movie blooms in the second half and certainly worth the patience.

29/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie recoemmendation

Jigathanda, 2014, Karthik Subbaraj

Of all the Tamil film makers, Karthik Subbaraj may be the only one who can end up making films of any genre. I will not be surprised if he makes a Bhakti film and a James Bond film with equal ease. Like Tarentino or Anurag Kashyap, you can feel that he is having so much FUN making that film he is working on. He is one of those directors, whose filmography is worth watch.

The last 12 minutes of Jigarthanda are great lessons in story telling, how you can completely fool the audience and shall we say, for want of a better word, transform the genre of the movie itself.

This was my review after 28 days after the movie was released.

The "Soora Bothai"( A Devilish High) of "Jigarthanda"

Once was not enough, Twice was not enough and after a third helping in three weeks, there are no signs of satiety. I look forward to several more helpings of “Jigarthanda”( Translated as Cold Hearted, Jigarthanda is also a delectable Falooda like dessert served in Madurai).

Karthik Subbaraj, serves this intoxicating tale, narrates with Machiavellian intent, teases and tantalizes the audience with an inclusive mock fest. Probably a first, there is a mathematical format to this mock fest, the title “Jigarthanda” rolls down as it is being pronounced as a “Kuppai Padam”( A film that could pass of trash), a verdict given by one of the judges on a short films made by the protagonist. And as the director cruises along with verve, zest and zeal, the film is punctuated with unending QEDS.

Karthik is blessed with several weapons in the arsenal who shine so brightly that Karthik himself get lost in the radiance of his cohorts. One is not really sure who is the first amongst equals as Santosh Narayanan(Music), Gavemic U Ary, the Cinematographer, Siddarth and Simha, all of them vie for equal honours.

While Gavemic is silent, Siddarth is understated and probably has been underrated for this performance, Simha is a joy to behold, and Santosh Narayan, spews an indescribable score that sends you into a space far removed from this earth.

I wish I had the competence and the skill sets to appreciate the cinematography and music in greater detail. Between Gavemic and Santosh, they set the mood for a film while capturing the flavors of Madurai, infuse new flavours into the temple town which were hitherto not experienced.

For that one shot of Meenakshi temple, in a suspended haze, in a visibly invisible state, Gavemic, as a lay man I really enjoyed it.

Simha, to me, has of course been the real reason for me to visit the movie again and again. Thanks to the writing, Simha, has an opportunity to exhibit a multitude of emotions, he is not grey, he is a mirage of black with a lurking and languishing human inside. Simha explodes on to the screen. His haunting eyes, phenomenally menacing body language, the swagger, the exuberance, the camaraderie, the pursuit of excellence, and there is that glint of unusual humanness just makes him a powerful character that has been unleashed on us for a long long time. You could have the one-dimensional villains like Gabbar Singh, Mogambo, Joker or Jack Nicholson in Departed, Simha as Sethu will always remain special.

I would have loved to see, Rajinikanth play this character about thirty years back.

The goose bumps reserved for Rajinikanth seemed to have been just been shared with Simha.

28/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Pizza 2:The Villa, 2013, Deepan Chakravarthy

I am not great fan of the horror genre. Must not have seen more than 6 films till date. 

Pizza 2 is my favourite horror film.

This is another GEM from CV Kumar, Thirukumaran entertainment. In the last decade there must have been atleast a dozen directors in Tamil who made one good quality film and disappeared from the horizon. One such director is Deepan Chakravarthy. The co-writer of Pizza 2, K. Manikandan is frequenting though as an actor, last seen in Sillu Karupattu.

Here is my review of Pizza 2 when it was released November 2013

Pizza 2

Understated and Classy. At the outset, big hurrah!! for the producers to have the guts to produce this film in a regional language with a small market size.

While there have been several Aha! moments for Tamil Cinema in the last several years, even though there has been a quiet revolution, even movies like Vazhakku En 18/9 had to include an emotional climax to appease the sensibilities of a regional market.

I cannot remember any Tamil/Indian film which has been so understated and more importantly adopt a very minimalist approach to sentimentality.

While Pizza did manage to bring the house down with audience screaming in a high point of the movie, The Villa departs from Pizza, in fact saunters all along and as the pace builds up, teasingly, does not gallop!!!, remains faithful in spirit to the franchise and leaves you asking for more!!!!

Yes, We Want some more, we want some more!!!!

P.S: New director, New Hero, All round technical competence, brilliant casting and hero heroine do not run around the trees. We have now come to expect this from Tamil films.

Well the sartorial sense seemed to have improved too, with the hero distinguishing himself sporting impeccably tailored chinese collar shirts throughout the film!! Wow!! It just added to the elegance of the overall experience.

And Santosh Narayanan, your piano strains are hauntingly embedded within!!!

27/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Thanga Meenkal, 2013 and Peranbu, 2019, Ram

In some ways, Peranbu is a sequel of sorts of Thanga Meenkal or may be Peranbu is Thanga Meenkal tweaked to include an important message.

Ram is one of our genuine film makers seething with anger. He continues to mature and able to harness his anger. 

Combined with his film making skills which continue to improve leaps and bounds, he is bound to make some unforgettable cinema in times to come.

Below are my face book posts when the movie was released

Thanga Meenkal

A lament narrated with poetry, humour and crackling energy driven by nerve wracking tension set amidst extraordinary grandeur of a quite little village bursting with beautiful lakes, mystical valleys, adorable little insects and lovely children.

The movie takes of like a helicopter from the first scene, takes your breath away and by the time the movie is over you are emotionally drained.

You could get a bit upset with the director that he does not allow you to relish the innocence and the poetry. However in all fairness the narrative requires the palpable tension to enable the viewer to introspect.

The greatest loss of humanity is the loss of innocence. It is a lament that needs to be voiced at the highest decibel. The message is loud and Clear.

Ram, This is responsible Cinema at its best. We are proud of you and there is certainly hope for India.!!!!

Peranbu

Tribute to the teacher.

You cannot but be reminded of 'Moonram Pirai' while watching Peranbu.

But the pupil's reality connect, in this emotionally exhausting, must see film, is an opportunity to build a conversation around the traumatic lives of caregiver's, who are wilting around us.

While 'Empathy' is becoming the rarest of commodities, Ram's Peranbu, underlines the hope, that lies amidst hopelessness and delivers a rare GEM of Indian Cinema.

There always is an undercurrent of anger that runs below all of Ram's narrative and in his previous outings, it looked a bit imposed. Peranbu is not one of those easy watches. There is no sugar coating. It is tense, restless and suspenseful, Ram's genuineness in this heart warming tale is something his teacher, Balu Mahendra, would have approved of.

The helplessness of the caregiver is real. She or He, is almost fighting a lone battle. They live very much among us, but isolated. It is compassion that helps overpower helplessness to execute their responsibility.

I seriously wish and recommend that all the educational institutions make, Peranbu, a mandatory watch.

I guess it may be difficult for most of us to do something about it, but the least we could is to become conscious of the plight of, 'Children of the Lesser God' and the caregiver's.

To borrow the words of the narrator

Is it not important, that we realize, how blessed our lives are?

Take a bow, Ram, I wish I could give you a warm hug!!!.

26/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Soothu kavvum, 2013, Nalan Kumaraswamy

Only twice in the history of my movie watching, unable to control my laughter, I had to stand up, to be able to control the spasm in my abdomen.

The first time it was while watching Micki and Maude and the second time it was with Soothu Kavvum.

It will be the best black comedy that was ever made and probably will be ever made.

CV Kumar, Thirukumaran Entertainment(TE), produced about 16 films, and in a way transformed the quality and content, of Tamil Films. Not sure, if any other production house influenced the course of Tamil cinema in the last 10 year as much as TE. They also have the privilege of introducing Pa. Ranjith, Nalan Kumaraswamy, Karthik subbaraj, Ramkumar and the likes.

By the way where are your Nalan? You are by far the cleverest of the new age directors and we miss you very badly.

Here is my review of Soothu Kavvum written in 2013 when the movie was released

Over the last two years, Tamil Cinema, has consistently produced at least 30 good films with little or no star power. The screenwriter and the technicians have been firmly in grip. Not sure if Bollywood or Hollywood have attempted so many quality films without stars.

Soodhu Kavvum, is one such effort, with the screen writer working overtime to give us pure and unadulterated entertainment. While the story seems to skirt along similar themes in the past, the screenwriter keeps the viewer surprised till the end.

The movie while being hilariously tense with its zany characters and plot, is peppered with a lot of creativity, great music and BGM from Santosh Narayanan. Ever since I have heard Santosh in Attakthi I am a great fan of his. While the Sax is joyous and you get to hear it in the background, he freaks out with the Gana and Rap mix and then surprises you with the out of the world, MGR "Thathuva padal"(Philosophy) song in the end.

I think professionals in all walks of life may learn from the Tamil Film Technicians, who continue to set new standards of excellence.

Way to go.

25/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Attakathi, 2012, Madras, 2014, Pa. Ranjith

When there is imagination to make a debut film about a NOBODY, then you had the privilege of watching the launch of the career of a SOMEBODY.

This was my review when the movie was released in 2012

Got to watch Attakathi, one of the latest Tamil releases. The golden period of Tamil Cinema seems to endure. The industry seems to be firmly in the hands of technicians. A million stories are waiting to be told in our very backyard. Attakathi, narrates the story of yet another directionless Indian youth, with characters thrown around him etched out of our own lives. Exhilarating cinema intertwined with some intoxicating music laced with Spanish strains. Dinesh(?), the protagonist could well walk away with the Best Actor for the year. Thanks to the director for rekindling the magic of 'Thavani'(Half Saree) in a few of the scenes and a special mention of the sequence of the music and dance at the funeral peaking into a crescendo and then breaking into a song sung by the protagonist surrounded by his friends and relatives. It is for this kind of excitement that we see films.

Madras

Exuberant film making. While Pollathavan, initiated North Madras to a certain extent, Madras, carved a unique place for North Madras in the heart of the film viewer. If ony Ranjit had taken care of the last 30-40 minutes, Madras might have ended up being a cult classic. 

The Madras interval block and the the most amazing background music by Santhosh Narayan for that block will be one of the most unforgettable slices of cinema.

24/40, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie recommendation

Neerparavai, 2012, Seenu Ramaswamy

A most beautifully crafted soulful classic.

When the addict is 'de-addicted', the fisherman's father joy knows no bounds, and as a token of gratitude get's hold of the biggest fish possible and gifts it to the doctor who cured his son. 

These are moments where only arts can reach rarefied heights and liberate the soul from petty boundaries.

I thought there were strokes of genius. I personally thought, even when the hero temporarily moves out of the fishing hamlet, the director ensured that the story shifted to "Uppalams" (Salt Pan??), thereby ensured that we breathed the whiff of "saltish air" as we watched the movie. This ensured that we were transported to the very place of action, enhanced the entire experience.

Jeyamohan was in great form.

N. Raghunathan's music was very good. Not sure about his address, these days.

Alagam Perumal, as the Father(priest), is another unforgettable performance

Will always be one of the special movies made in Tamil Cinema.

23/40, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Angadi Theru, 2010 and Aravaan, 2012, Vasanathabalan

These are two gems from the golden age of Tamil Cinema, 2007 - 2014, from Vasanthabalan

Angadi Theru is the most hard hitting movie made on an actual retail store and their practices in T. Nagar. Timeless

Aravaan, is the most fascinating historical ever made in Tamil Cinema., based on one of the chapters of Su. Venkatesan's 'Kaaval Kottam'. 'A sweeping spectacle. Timeless again. it was a crime to not have celebrated this classic.

22/40,#lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie recommendation

I will continue the Tamil Movie recommendation alone from today. The International and Indian movie recommendation come to an end at the Lockdown 1.0

Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai, 2011 and Adhalinal Kathal Seiveer, 2013, Suseendhran

Suseendhran made some very good films at the beginning of his career.

Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai won the National award, for the Best popular film providing wholesome entertainment. It upset the uber stylish Zindagi na Milegi Dobara to win this award.

A charming film set in the rural mileu with Maestro in Sublime form. It was just out of the world, especially watching it in the cinema hall.

Adhalinal kadhal seiveer, is a brilliant adaptation of Juno, about teenage pregnancy. i was floored by the brilliant climax, where they invoked the crux of Puthiya Pathai, thereby ensuring that the message reached out to the lowest common denominator.

Both of these movies again drive home the fact that Content is King!!!!

21/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul , International Movie recommendation

Last Train Home, Chinese Documentary, 2009

It is a very important and relevant documentary. What is the impact of the human's on their decision to bring in business efficiencies?

As a civilization, we have come a full cycle, in the quest to seek new pastures, human adventure, has triggered the world melting into a pot.

While the world seems to have become more integrated, the aspirations seem to be disintegrating the fabric of our social structures. Families seem to be getting carved and disintegrated into different directions. It is not only that the migrant workers get displaced, it is common for wife and husband, to be working and living in different cities.

The Last Train Home is all soul. Opens up fundamental questions for introspection.

It also reminds us mortals, that we seem to be mere pawns, tossed around in the bewildering forces of greed that have been unleashed.

While there are people worried about human civilization being swept away by environmental hazards, I would be very worried if we lost the joys of being a social animal.

21/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Vazhakku En: 18/9

One of the almost perfect films ( except for the compromise made in the climax) made in Tamil/Indian cinema.

It is sad to see one of the great directorial talents doing side roles.

Eight years after this great movie, where has Balaji Sakthivel disappeared, as a director?

21/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

Sudani from Nigeria, Streaming on Netflix

One of the loveliest movies made in Malayalam/Indian cinema.

Soubin Shahir and Savithri Sreedharan are in great form.

For me the highlight of the film, is the mother's empathy at the death of the Nigerian footballer's grandmother's and organizing the chanting of Koran by innocent kids bathed in a white robe followed by a feast as a mark of respect for the deceased grandmother.

Truly the world can do with instances of such overflowing love.

This is a mandatory watch.

20/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie Recommendation

MILK

Two important reasons why you must watch, 'Milk'.

Harvey Milk, believed, which any progressive society would aspire:

All young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.

All of us aspire for equality. A very important first reason, that, may want to sink and seep into every corner of our society.

Harvey Milk encouraged and advocated that

Every gay person must come out. As difficult as it is, you must tell your immediate family. You must tell your relatives. You must tell your friends if indeed they are your friends. You must tell the people you work with. You must tell the people in the stores you shop in. Once they realize that we are indeed their children, that we are indeed everywhere, every myth, every lie, every innuendo will be destroyed once and all. And once you do, you will feel so much better

The second reason, why you should watch, Milk, is for you to be able to accept the differently oriented, as they are, and give them a sense of reassurance to be able to open up.

20/21. #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Aadukalam

It is and will always be one of the finest films made in Tamil cinema and India.

This is a classic case where you can make a film revolving stories rooted in the flavour of the soil and yet explore universal themes.

While the first half was exhilarating, the second half was absolutely out of the world, unthinkable in the realms of Tamil Cinema.

Deservedly won a clutch of awards

20/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie recommendation

Dev D

The kind of energy that oozes, is almost the same as derived watching high octane thriller.

The exploration of both the physical and platonic relationship is fascinating, in a way bringing out the meaninglessness of the physical relationship.

What a re-imagination of a tragic tale? Great cinema that redefines Devadas, filled with hope and a future.

Strictly for Adults

19/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul , International Movie Recommendation

Two Pope's

Happy Easter to you all. What better gift on an Easter day, then watch this message of hope, from Two Pope's on this auspicious day. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/two-popes-panacea-splintering-world-raghunath-ramaswamy/?fbclid=IwAR2_j6GxA2TOlJa8rsuG0Q_ZdwdUvds0WHXBU-7wrreP2AD-Ayn79Tea_tg

19/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Mynaa

A pure adrenaline rush for the viewer that seamlessly blended, the local lingo, romance, comedy, action, adventure , great songs and music, culminating in a disapproving yet stunning climax.

A great masala film, for all times.

Most of the movies that stood out between 2000 and 2010, had tragic endings but the audience just lapped it up. 

The making, triumphed.

Vidharth was an equally great contender for the best actor award that year which eventually Dhanush shared with Salim Kumar. Like Priya Mani, this talent actor has almost disappeared from the Tamil cinema scene.

Thank you Prabhu Solomon, for entertaining us.

19/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendaton

Angamaly Dairies and EeMaayu, Malayalam, Lijo Jose Pellisery

I have great pleasure in recommending two fantastic Malayalam films.

I believe, Lijo Jose Pellisery will be the next person from India , who will bring India home the Oscars. Vetrimaran could be a close second, but he seems to be drifting. 

Angamaly dairies and EEMaayuu are very different films. Both of them were pure delight.

When I saw Eemaayuu for the first time, I was bowled by the sound design, that I did not focus on anything else.

Catch up, Anagamaly Dairies is streaming on netflix and eemaayuu is streaming on Prime.

18/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie Recommendation

Lincoln

Lincoln is a personal favourite of mine.

Times are different. The article was written when Mr. Trump was elected. Seems relevant even in these times.

Lincoln's address after the Civil War is instructive and timeless.

With malice towards none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and a lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/responsibility-being-mr-donald-trump-eyw-week-18-raghunath-ramaswamy/?fbclid=IwAR2nZIJhpV5f-hNt5TUgWlTdOKI_Ajz4pJmar5B7NOmWqw7qHAYz7ajnwH8

18/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Ayirathil Oruvan, 2010

When imagination ran riot.....

The expedition, while it looked fairly familiar, culminated into something extremely unpredictable and where each passing sequence started becoming better and better, especially in the second half. Ten years after watching Ayirathil Oruvan, i still retain the daze after walking out of Kamala Cinema during 2010 Pongal.

Dearest Selva, all of us eagerly look forward to the sequel.

By the way, we also look forward to your waking up from your stupour!!! 

We could help ourselves with some of your creativity and energy that charecterize your films.

18/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

Eega, Telugu, 2012

While Rajamouli covered himself with  glory with the monumental Bahubali, my favourite Rajamouli, movie remains Eega. 

After Lagaan, it had the audience vocally rooting for the Fly. in a rousing interval block. you hooted as the fly attacked Sudeep.

Timeless and Brilliant.

This is a anytime watch. 

17/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International movie recommendation

Fences and Guess Who is coming to Dinner

Parenting to me then seems to be one of the strong reasons that seems to have determined the attitude and probably the destiny of this professional.

Parenting can be about a lot of things.

Fundamentally about responsibility. Definitely about being exemplary. Certainly about constantly communicating. Surely about setting goals. Unquestionably about imparting values and the moral fabric to weather the innumerable storms. Undoubtedly about instilling hope. Indisputably about understanding your children and (their aspirations). 

Evidently a state, which requires infinite patience. Undeniably, where giving exceeds receiving. Conclusively a state, where you could muster all the love in the world and yet the parent may feel that he or she may want to add just something extra.

17/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil film

Subramaniyapuram, 2008. Sasikumar

If we had continued to make as many good films as we did between 2007 and 2014, we would have been far ahead of Malayalam cinema by now.

Subramaniyapuram, is one of the brilliant movies during that time. Anurag Kashyap has credited subramaniyapuram for the inspiration of Gangs of Wasseypur.

God only knows, why Sasikumar stopped directing!!!

Worth its weight in gold.

17/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

Rocket Singh: Salesman of the year

Is one of the loveliest movies made in Indian cinema which include wonderful lessons in management, entrepreneurship, team building, empathy, relationships....

This is a mandatory watch for all sections of the society.

The earnestness of Ranbir Kapoor is worth falling in love.

Rocket Singh, is a Rocket targeted deep into your soul.

" Ananda kaneer" (Tears welling out of Happiness) guaranteed

16/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie Recommendation

Silence of the lambs and Marnie

Beneath the superficial layer of who we think we are and how we are perceived by others, there is probably one real person within all of us, waiting to be discovered. The person that has eluded the wakeful consciousness, within. A person with unlimited intelligence and capabilities, who is born to win.

16/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

Satya, 1998, Hindi

Ramgopal varma made this when he was in sublime form.

A definite cult classic, that wafts in the Mumbai Lingo. Direct and hard hitting, you just cannot ignore the wit, sarcasm and humour.

Arguably the, best movie ever made on Underworld/Mafia.

The big bonuses of the movie are Manoj Bajapayee and Anurag kashyap, who continue to light up the tinsel town.

16/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Paruthiveeran

Another landmark movie in the Tamil industry.

Karthi's debut Film. Priya mani and karthi sizzle in this lovely love story.

Wonder where Priya Mani and Amir have vanished over the years.

I saw this when it was released in Lux Cinemas in 2016 just before Deepavali. What a riot.

This is another timeless classic.

15/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie Recommendation

The Aviator

Entrepreneurial journey can mean different things to different people. Lessons from Hughes life, can be enlightening to not only entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals.

Hughes will always be relevant.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/entrepreneurs-investment-enrichyourweekendeyw-week-9-ramaswamy/?fbclid=IwAR1I40EIpdMmOdyeXPBoqPbQUAVJcNQIJ8FPIcdgZ0GGlAw_qB6A0ns51bE

15/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil movie recommendation

Mudhalvan and Enthiran

What can be the Tamil Industry be without Shankar, the dreamer, who dared to dream beyond the narrow borders imposed by regional cinema.

Within 2 years of Forest Gump, releasing, in those time when technological differences were difficult to bridge, he recreated those concepts in Indian.

Mudhalvan, When we beat Hollywood at their game.

The Nixon interviews were a series of conversations between former President Richard Nixon and British journalist David Frost, produced by John Birt. They were recorded and broadcast on television and radio in four programs in 1977. The interviews became the central subject of Peter Morgan's play Frost/Nixon in 2006 and the 2008 film version.

For the records, writer Sujatha, adapted those interviews into one unforgettable iNTERVIEW brilliantly in Mudhalvan.

Enthiran

Only Shankar could have made this supremely stylish Sci Fi thriller. 

It was sad though that the climax, despite its brilliant conceptualisation, was poorly executed. 

One also gets a taste of how Rajini in full form can feel like.

15/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

ManichitraThazu and Drishyam

Two of the best thrillers in Indian cinema

When the other remakes of Mani Chitra Thazu were made 10 years later, they looked like they were 20 years behind in time.

One of the reasons, you start believing Malayalam cinema is way ahead.

Mani chitra Thazu is pure class.

Drishyam

The perfect thriller for all times that you don't seem to ever get tired of.

14/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie Recommendation

Kon-Tiki

Thor Heyerdahl, the Norwegian explorer in his visits to the Fatu Hiva, Polynesian Islands, 1937, becomes intrigued from where the Polynesians may have arrived.

While the belief at that point was that the Polynesian's may have migrated from Asia, two aspects intrigue him, one is a theory that Asian's may have had to travel to Polynesia against strong currents and the fact that Faa-hoka a type of pineapple, found in South America and was found in abundance by the European explorers when they arrived in Polynesia.

Thor, in his interactions with the, local elder, tries to understand where his ancestors came from.

The elder avers:

Everything comes from the East, Ocean Currents, Wind and the Sun.

Thor believed that people from South America could have settled in Polynesia in pre-columbian times.

Thor was convinced that ancient people from South America traveled a 4,300 mile journey from South America to the South Pacific by raft. 

His aim in mounting the Kon-Tiki expedition was to show, by using only the materials and technologies available to those people at the time, that there were no technical reasons to prevent them from having done so. 

The Kon-Tiki expedition was funded by private loans, along with donations of equipment from the United States Army. Thor and a small team went to Peru, where, with the help of dockyard facilities provided by the Peruvian authorities, they constructed the raft out of balsa logs and other native materials in an indigenous style as recorded in illustrations by Spanish conquistadores. The trip began on April 28, 1947. Heyerdahl and five companions sailed the raft for 101 days over 6900 km (4,300 miles) across the Pacific Ocean before smashing into a reef at Raroia in the Tuamotu Island on August 7, 1947. The crew made successful landfall and all returned safely.

The journey was undertaken against several odds including seas filled with sharks.

The most interesting part is that Thor's raft was not propelled by engines, but sailed with the help of winds and ocean currents.

Thor the explorer and the sailor, undertook the great expedition, without knowing, how to swim!!!!

What does Thor Heyerdahl and his journey mean to us?

I would like to invoke within us

A perpetual sense of amazement and the wonderment about the world that we inhabit

A constant excitement about the infinite possibilities that present

The explorer who travels far and beyond

The historian who tries to understand who we are and how did we travel thus far.

An inquiring mind to observe, understand and explore.

The good sense to not hurry to form any judgment.

The Scientist who researches thoroughly

The Adventurer who has the audacity to execute the plans against all odds

Most importantly,

It is in the mysterious equations of Belief, lies the redemption of Human Civilization.

14/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

Mithunam, 2012, Telugu, Streaming on Prime

Life and Living are illustrated so marvelously.

The story revolves around an elderly couple who live in the lovely environs of a quaint old self contained house with a quainter home garden.

The daily chores saunters at a pace indifferent to the spaces of time.

Experience the tranquility of a quiet life. There are flashbacks aplenty and mercifully the cinematic technique is left alone.

SPB and Lakshmi are superb. Despite SPB being in top form, Lakshmi wins the acting honours hands down.

This is a mandatory watch, for all youngsters.

A mandatory watch to beat your COVID Blues.

As SPB avers after this meal

ADBUTAHA!!! (INcreddible)

P.S:

I have tonnes of telugu friends. I puzzled that not even one has recommended this treasure to me.

14/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Naan Kadavul

Beginning today, we will be covering the 21st century directors. 

I have made a list of 15 important directors and their work. This series then will run for 14 more weeks.

Bala, technically made his first film in 1999. And then a streak of darkness, 'descendeth"...

Bala's films are dark and disturbing, a reflection, of the growing mistrust within the system.

Make no mistake he has influenced so many film makers, ARJUN REDDY is a film directly influenced by Bala. 

His film making though is absolutely liberating.

I was in an extremely angry frame of mind when I stepped into to see Naan kadavul. I became absolutely calm within 30 seconds of the movie commencing.

Having said that while I appreciate Bala's angst and anger, I many times felt he could do with some counselling. I felt that especially with the kind of violence that was unleashed in a comedy like Avan Ivan.

Bala is such an important director and he can be so effective in narrating a story, it may be a good idea for him to take an objective middle path, so that it can influence youngsters positively

Bala's best is yet to come. And I just hope that he harnesses that anger to create some mind boggling stuff.

13/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie Recommendation

TWISTER

How do these professionals arrive? Are they born? Do they evolve?

These are happy accidents of life, some attribute it to parents, some to caring teachers at school, some to caring teachers at universities, some to bosses at work places, some to reversal of fortunes in life, some to great teams at work and the lucky few who get amazed at wonderment that life has in abundance and consequently evolve. The lucky few who are constantly curious and honest with themselves, are unafraid to experiment and keep raising the bar perpetually.

What distinguishes these 'Gung-Ho' professionals?

Their attitude is driven by their concern , empathy is their bedrock on which their work ethic is built.

Being pro-active is their middle name.

They perpetually raise their bar and strive to be ever competent

The integrity and fearlessness that imbues them with the character, to deal with the problem on the merits of the problem.

The restlessness to complete the problem arising out of internal compulsions.

Inventive enough to find ways and means to achieve goals, despite their limitations

And above all, no fear of failure.

The professionals reward for work is, the work itself.

As Jonas Salk put it,

The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.

13/21. #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

Jaane bhi Do Yaron, 1983/84.

Kundan Shah in his elements, had us all in splits. I remember having seen it on Republic day in 1984 and 25 years later on the DVD in Bengaluru. The 'splits' remained intact after 25 years.

For various reasons I consider the sarcasm, wit, satire is the best ever comedy made in Hindi cinema.

Watch it. Covid will be a goner!!!

13/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Hey Ram

Easily the most ambitious Tamil film ever made, the sweeping spectacle, beginning in the archaeological sites of Pakistan, swiftly travelling to the harrowing history of pre-independence Kolkatta, diving into those lovely streets of Srirangam dripping in the Vaishnavite culture and drifting westward to synthesize the Hindutva philosophy of its RSS lords and exploding into the alleys of Old Delhi culminating into the appreciation of Gandhiian ideology.

There is one dialogue that sums the spirit of the film, I do not think I will ever forget is, when Shahrukh Khan asks:

"Naan Un Thambi Mathiri Illaya, RAM?" ( Am I not like your younger brother, RAM?)

Only Kamalahassan could and can pull of movie of this scale, substance and style!!! 

KAMALHASSAN = RESPECT

P.S: 

Three important films on partition, Garam Hawa, Tamas and Hey Ram. It is also enlightening to read " Freeedom at Midnight"

We must never forget that Lord Mountbatten gave us just six weeks to partition this country. 

The English not only looted us for 350 years but did their handiwork continues to bleed this country after 70 years!!!!.

12/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie Recommendation

Chelakara R Vishwanathan, I have included Ten Commandments today as you would have liked it. I discovered I had already written a post about it.

The Ten Commandments

The Ten Commandments, as a film needs no introduction. Released in 1956, the visual grandeur and appeal of Ten Commandments is incomparable. This dramatized version has just the perfect drama that makes for compelling viewing.

I find the commandments, universal and timelessly relevant. It resonates the philosophy of most of the religions of the world. Monotheism, a formless God, contemplation and the good sense to control one's senses. The commandments is not only a reflection of the wisdom of the universe but also an expectation from its travelers. Self-Regulation, may be the key to happiness.

The commandments may also reiterate the power of a creation and the creative force, that is omniscient, omnipresent and ubiquitous. The God has probably not promised any divine intervention. The ordinary mortal may have to lead his or her life, with the Commandments as a guiding principle. Contemplation, prayers, a disciplined, self-regulated life with a good sense to control over one's senses, may be the only hope for one's salvation.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/wisdom-expectation-universe-enrichyourweekend-eyw-week-ramaswamy/?fbclid=IwAR1h9TYiR2xe7YJnOlCfeNtoC8XKkIubXkdro1YVbpjxgKqPI4CQYPnFoLU

12/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul

The Making of the Mahatma, streaming on HotStar

Shyam Benegal is one of India's most important and inspiring film makers.

His Tele serial, "Bharat Ek khoj" is one of the most important work of art in Indian cinema and TV.

Way back in 1989/90, on Sunday 11 AM for about 52 weeks, it was pure bliss, watching Bharat Ek Khoj. I used to be in love with Nitish Roy the art director, VK Murthy, the cinematographer and Vanraj Bhatia, the music director, transporting us back into hundreds of years of history. A perspective that is essential for Modern india. These are available in Youtube. You can watch all the 52 episodes and enrich yourself.

One of Shyam Benegal's loveliest and important works is The Making of Mahatma made on a shoestring budget, tracing Mahatma's experiences in South Africa and how it shaped his persona.

A mandatory watch for children to understand Mahatma.

The understanding of who Mahatama Gandhi and his relevant seems to have fallen by the wayside. The Father of the nation to be remembered for that one day off from work is the greatest tragedy to have fallen on this nation.

Agreed, that any person is package, has his positives and negatives, but for a man, who brought 30 crore people together to fight the British, and who breathed his last uttering the word's Hey Ram, when blasted by a bullet, requires our attention.

12/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Iruvar, 1997, Mani Ratnam, Streaming on Prime

Till date, the greatest regret, I have is being unable to show, my ailing father, iruvar. He would have loved it. Between Jan 1997, since Iruvar released and his passing away in Jan 2002, I was always looking out for Iruvar to play in some channel or lay my hands or on any digital medium. Alas, that remains an unfulfilled wish.

What would Tamil Cinema be without Mani Ratnam. He not only vaulted the Technical attributes of Tamil cinema way ahead of anyone in India but also made it world class. If today, the technical competence of Indian cinema is as good, as anywhere in the world, the first steps were sown by Mani Ratnam. The look and feel of Indian Cinema and the sheen that it has assumed over the years truly belongs to Mani Ratnam.

Having said that, Mani, has also been one director who has never lived up to his potential.

While he remains the master especially in narrating the love stories which seemed to be getting fresher, with every outing( i hear a lot of boos, Katru Veliyidai , fresh in everybody's memory; yours truly loved it to the hilt!!!!), many of Mani's work have always been a cup which has been half full.

While Kannathil muthamittal, to me was the most satisfying, Iruvar remains the most important film he has ever made.

The Dravidian movement, is the most important piece of modern history that is relevant to Tamils. Producing and releasing it, during the lives and times of its leaders, not only requires, prudence, sensitivity and courage.

The aesthetics and the Tamil of Iruvar is breathtaking. In a way, I feel it is a crime to narrate the Dravidian politics with so much of subtlety and class, far removed from the reality of Dravidian politics.

If you could be disappointed with Mani, then it is his conscious decision to even keep the conflict,in Iruvar, subtle!!!!

We all know while there was an undercurrent of poetry, 25 years into the Dravidian rule, when the movie was produced, the explicit intentions of our rulers had come to the fore.

As a producer, one can understand Mani's plight.

As an ardent admirer of Mani, we are waiting for "Ponniyin Selvan" and hope it will be his magnum opus. I guess the legions of fans of "ponniyin Selvan" will also be praying for the same.

11/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie

Saving Private Ryan

The relevance of Saving Private Ryan to fellow professionals is timeless.

Professionals live not only in an interconnected world but also are recipients of the progress made by fellow professionals who have strode this universe before us.

Thanks to our ancestors, borrowing a line from Jurassic Park, we stand on the shoulders of genius to accomplish something as fast as we can today.

We have bequeathed the munificence of our ancestors.

Careers therefore must be about giving back several times over and above what we have received.

Professionals may do well to ask themselves,

How can I give back to the civilization the extraordinary benefits I enjoy, owing to the hard work and ingenuity of my ancestors?

Our lives also seem to be dependent on the services offered by innumerable other professions, how do we plan to reciprocate their generosity?

Have we earned our right to live in this planet?

11/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

COURT, Marathi

The Court, refreshingly, is not about judgement but about observation.

The Court not only makes pertinent observations about the system, but it also uses a case, to examine the lives of the Judge presiding the case and the two lawyers who are arguing the case.

Using their lives it explores the mindsets, the aspirations, the ignorance, the greed, hypocrisy, and the human struggle to find fairness amidst despair.

Each frame simmers with necessary anger and angst. 

There are several dimensions to Court.

Does the aspirations and disappointments of our lives affect the quality of our work and vice versa?

A distinct possibility, that underlines the importance of compartmentalization of our lives.

The Court, makes interesting observations on the interpretation and the relevance of rules, precedents and judgement's.

This can again be extrapolated to work being performed in all spheres, of our day to day life.

The professional can exercise his freedom to either play by the book or play it with imagination and intelligence.

Refreshing is Court's observation on approach to work.

How can a case, so simple, as it seems, be understood in different and complex ways?

The power to comprehend seems to be jaundiced by ones mindset, values and preconceived notions.

Human lives intersect. Our actions at work and life impact the lives of others.

How can a system strive to inculcate a culture of empathy?

One could get promoted and move up the ladder, but the ability to feel for a fellow being, to be conscious of one's responsibility, to comprehend the complexities of a job, to develop the necessary competence, to evolve, execute it with conviction and reinvent oneself has to be a clarion call from within.

When work is done by the professional, keeping all the stakeholders interests in mind, with uncompromising integrity, efficiency and competence, a professional will know that s/he has arrived.

A must watch for every professional.

11/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Aboorva Sagodararkal, (Appu Raja, Hindi)1990

Kamalahasan, must be the most valuable professional that strode the world of cinema.

Some accuse him of plagiarism, some of narcissism, some hate his attitude and mostly I guess he fails hands down in his hilarious interviews. I just find it very difficult to understand his extraordinary incompetence to handle interviews and the effortlessness in making a mockery of himself while giving those interviews, seems to be the most confused person in the world.

Having said that his dedication to the craft is unquestionable and unpraralleled.

Kamal's body of work in Cinema between Pushpak and Virumandi, as an Singer, Dancer, Actor, director and Producer is mind boggling. 

To execute, flawless world class work in a small regional market in Tamil Nadu, can only stem from an innate urge to express as an artist, dispelling all the perceived limitations.

Kamal, career can be divided before Pushpak, after Virumandi and between Pushpak and Virumandi. I focus on his body of work between Pushpak and Virumandi. I may also have missed out some of his work during this timeframe

Consider the movies

1. Pushpak, 2. Nayakan 3. Unnal Mudiyum Thambi 4. Sathya 5. Aboorva Sagodararkal. 6. Chanakyan, Malayalam 7. Vetri Vizha 8. Indran chandran 9. Micahel Madana kamarajan 10. Guna 11. singara velan 12. Devar Magan 13. mahanadhi 14. nammavar 15. Sathi Leelavathi 16. Suba Sankalpam, Telugu 17. KuruthiPunal 18. Avvai Shanmughi 19. Kathala Kathala 20. hey Ram 21. Tenali 22. Alavandhan 23. Pammal k Sambhandam 24. Panchathanthiram 25. Anbe sivam and 26. Virumandi

That is unimaginable variety for any actor any where in the world.

Our man, donned so many roles, that nobody in the world can even come anywhere close to the variety of roles.

Consider the kind of dedication. At 58, in Vishwaroopam, he dances, with all the zeal that he can find and gladden our hearts.

Consider the physical effort to play a dwarf or Shanmughi or Indian Thatha.

Consider the subtleties involved in speaking the Sri lankan Tamil in tenali or the Coimbatore Slang in Sathi Leelavathi or the palaghat iyer role in Michael madana kamarajan or the madurai Tamil in Virumandi.

Consider the nobility of thought and ideas discussed in Mahanathi, Guna, Anbe Sivam or Unnal Mudiyum Thambi

Consider that he made some of the moviea ahead of time like Alavandhan and Anbe Sivam.

Consider the ambition and nobility of Hey! Ram.

Kamal's dedication to the craft of cinema is inspiration Unlimited.

I guess he has been one of the most important forces in Tamil Cinema and raised the bar over and over again. 

I will be discussing one 3 of his works, in three weeks, my personal favourites, for reasons that I will be discussing in these posts. (There are other films in the above 26 which may be better than these three)

1. Aboorva Sagodararkal

2. Hey Ram

3. Virumandi

Today it will be Aboorva Sagodararkal.

Shah Rukh Khan acted as a dwarf in Zero. I was just wondering for a long long time, as to why did Shah Rukh not look authentic?

Shahrukh was perfect and his upper and lower body were perfectly equal in size. And hence the imperfect dwarf.

Kamal got his dwarf perfectly with an imperfect lower body which seemed to be trimmed down knees below.

Do not know what his compulsions were to act like a dwarf, but he executed with all heart and brain and brought us so much happiness.

There is one sequence where a small sketch turned into a cartoon before "Annathe Aduran". When people take efforts to execute such sequences, then the urge to excel comes to the fore.

Aboorva Sagodarkal is one of the best masala movies made and the comedic undercurrent is a cult classic.

Aboorava Sagodarkal, also is a case where the dwarf, soared like a Colossus across the Indian Cinema.

Thank you Kamal. You remain an inspiration

10/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie recoemmendation

The Big Short, Streaming on Neflix

I take the liberty of reproducing Gordon Gekko’s Speech on “Greed is Legal” from Money Never Sleep, Wall Street, it kind of summarizes the spirit of ‘The Big Short" perfectly

Quote

You are all pretty much screwed.

You do not know it yet, but you are the ninja generation. No income, no job, no assets. You’ve got a lot to look forward to.

Someone reminded me the other day that I once said, greed is good.

Now it seems its legal

But it is greed that makes my bartender buy three houses, he cannot afford with no money down. And it is greed that makes your parents refinance their 200,000 dollar mortgage for 250,000 dollars. Now they take that extra 50,000 dollars and go to the shopping mall so they can buy a new plasma TV, cell phones, computers and an SUV.

And hey, why not a second home?

Gee Wiz, we all know the prices of houses in America always go up. Right?

It is greed that makes the government of this country cut the interest rates to 1% after 9/11 so we can all go shopping again.

They got all these fancy names for trillions of dollars for credit, CMO, CDO, SIV, ABS. You know I honestly think there are only 75 people in the world that knows what they are.

But I will tell you what they are, they are WMDs. Weapons of mass destruction.

When I was away, it seemed that greed, got greedier. With a little bit of envy mixed in.

Hedge fund managers came home with 50 to 100 million bucks a year.

So Mr. Banker, he looks around and says.

My life looks pretty boring.

So he starts leveraging his interest up to 40%, 50% to 100%. With your money not his.

Yours. Because he could.

You are supposed to be borrowing not them.

And the beauty of the deal is no one is responsible.

Because everyone is drinking the same cool-aid.

Last year ladies and gentlemen, 40% of all corporate profits came from the financial services industry.

Not production, not anything remotely to do with the needs of the American public.

The truth is we are all part of it now.

Banks, consumers they are moving the money around in circles.

We take a buck, we shoot it full of steroids and we call it leverage. I call it steroid banking.

Now I have been considered a pretty smart guy when it comes to finance.

Maybe I was in prison too long, but sometimes it is the only place to stay sane, looking out from the bars and say, hey is everyone out there nuts?

It is clear as a bell to those who pay attention. The mother of all evil is speculation. Leverage debt. The bottom line is, it is borrowing to the hilt.

And I hate to tell you this, but it is a bankrupt business model.

It will not work. It is systemic, malignant and its global. Like cancer, it is a disease, we got to fight back. How we going to do that?

How we are going to leverage that disease, back in our favor?

Unquote

10/21, #Lockdownenrichmnetforthesoul, National Movie Recommendation

Nayak, 1966, Bengali, Satyajit Ray

I am pleased to share the Youtube link to the Bengali movie.

While i am a great fan of Rajini, if you do watch, Nayak, you can appreciate, why Uttam Kumar's Style quotient is ahead. Uttam Kumar's acting is equally top notch. Saumitra chatterjee, is another fantastic actor. With his voice, had he come to Bollywood, i am not really sure, if Amtiabh would have been as popular as he is. to me Uttam Kumar and Saumitra chatterjee will always be the best actors this country ever produced.

Satyajit Ray, remains my most favourite director. 

The story revolves around a matinee idol on a 24-hour train journey from Kolkata to Delhi to receive a national award. However, he ends up revealing his mistakes, insecurities and regrets to a young journalist, who realises that behind all his arrogant facade lies a deeply troubled man as his life’s story is gradually revealed through seven flashbacks and two dreams.

Watch it. Enjoy it.

10/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Thooral ninnu Pochu, K. Bhagyaraj, 1982, Streaming on Youtube.

What would Tamil Cinema be without Bhagyaraj?

Is it the mischievousness, is it the innocence, is it the mischievousness and innocence or is it the mischievousness of the innocence?

This man certainly knows how to narrate a story laced with abundant humour ( Wish he had avoided those double meaning dialogues)

Thooral Ninnu Pochu, the title, must be inspired from Much Ado about Nothing. Make no mistake, Bhagyaraj is extremely well read. When I saw Vidyum Varai Kathiru, I was stunned as it was based on a short story, ( A complete Rip Off) in my CBSE, XII Non- detailed short story, The Extra Passenger, by August Dereleth.

In Thooral Ninnu Pochu, you will see, how beautifully he adapts, the Anajaneya character, in Nambiyar. It is a treat to watch Nambiyar, as a messenger, in a posture reminding of Anjaneya.

Thooral Ninnu Pochu must be one of the few films, where the 5 principal characters are introduced as the credit rolls out and the premise and the hints of the conflict are all established by the end of the credits.

The movie must rank as one of the best Village RomComs made and is a much cleaner version of Bhagyaraj films. Darling Darling Darling must be the one of the few movies without his double meaning dialogues.

Watch it. I assure you that Covid will be in Outerspace.

TRANCE, Streaming on Prime

Yet another miracle from the Malayalam film Industry

I certainly thought the length of Trance was unacceptable, The could have cut short by 30 minutes to even an hour.

This note is no affront to my christian friends, I owe all my school education to Christian teachers, grew up understanding Christianity, attending, Bible classes for an hour every week at my school and diligently praying as the school demanded. 

Here is a link to my review of Two Pope's(Streaming on Netflix) underlining the greatest respect for Pope Francis and my respect for Christianity as well. https://www.linkedin.com/.../two-popes-panacea.../ 

It will be interesting if Tamil Industry will ever remake this film.  Tamil Industry has always taken conscious effort to show each an every Christian character as ennobling and altruistic except for may be a few instances like, Bala in paradesi and Thyagarajan Kumara Raja in Super Delux. 

Ever since, the seventies as a kid, we have seen the special healing sessions in Chennai. 

When the entities aspire for market share of Religion, then Commerce rules the roost.

Kerala not only leads the literacy, the battle against all kinds of virus's but also way ahead in making interesting and meaningful Cinema.

Just googled and found the 'Trance" like sequence practised in Orissa on the Internet.

Watch it, Trance is an education in so many ways.

9/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, International Movie Recommendation

ShawShank Redemption, Streaming on HotStar and Green Mile, Streaming on NetFlix

While there is a reference to GreenMile, the link to the article does not cover GreenMile.

The biggest myth sold to mankind, is that life is fair. The lifelong elusive hunt for fairness, seems to be a disappointing exercise. We were confronted with unfairness, we are confronted with unfairness and we will be confronted with unfairness. This is a single most distinguishing feature of life. Creation manifest's itself with inequality, unfairness, strife and conflict.

Why did this happen to me? Why should this be happening to me? In an infinitesimal second, how did my life turn upside down? Am I doomed for life?

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/villain-called-self-pity-enrichyourweek-eyw-week-33-ramaswamy/?fbclid=IwAR3uidf8WFMwVQH15o5E5Ma5yShEuH_S8c-xWG4XYci7MTIa3ERfP7AOpYw

9/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

Sankarabharanam, Streaming on Prime and Sagara Sangamam

Where does a society and a nation derive its strength from? When does pursuits in arts, humanities, paintings, music, dance forms, intellectual activity gain momentum? How is our way of life, customs, traditions, habits, mores and values get articulated and enshrined in the DNA of our heritage? How important is it in defining our identity? How invaluable is our identity? Would we want to leverage the infinite wisdom of our ancestors?

Film makers like Mr. K.Viswanath do great service to a great nation by regaling the audiences, with tales, which capture the resplendent glory of India, allowing us to celebrate the secure, evolved and joyous times of our ancestors, who ignored the abyss of materialism, whose pursuits were ennobling and whose dreams were exalted.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/guru-sishya-parampara-perfect-learning-environment-eyw-ramaswamy/?fbclid=IwAR39vvOmlaOO6mzcA1X65xrmXpE1MxySrE2NmC-8bUqEtJmsTOKlCCE0b0g

9/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Moonram Pirai

Breathtaking poetry crafted by Four Geniuses.

The collective geniuses of Balu Mahendra, Ilayaraja, Kamalahassan and SriDevi, help craft this breathtaking poetry of Indian Cinema.

Not really sure if there any comparable works in Indian Cinema.

I wondered why the hell Balu Mahendra had to include those Silk Smitha segments.

8/21, #Lockdownenrichmentforthesoul. International Movie Recommendation

Is excellence an accident?

Excellence is a conscious choice that helps raise the bar continuously. Excellence, is an aspiration and a journey of discovery, that helps you to be honest enough to connect with reality to understand where you stand, it enthuses you to become competent and reinvent yourself, pushes you to become disciplined, infuses a sense of restlessness to apply until you have achieved what you want.

One of the important ingredients for Excellence is Process Compliance. There are no short cuts to excellence.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/mediocrity-act-professional-adultery-eyw-week-25-raghunath-ramaswamy/?fbclid=IwAR17-HfBclmZ7zQPcmXwBwww8SJv8FknxLkOJi-Yjz5X6OmRidOOwB5YfeM

8/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Tamil Movie Recommendation

Mullum Malarum and Uthiripookal

Mullum Malarum is streaming on Amazon

Before my brief note on these movies and on Mahendran.

I have missed S.S. Vasan and Sridhar. I saw Nenjil Oru Alayama after Thilana Mohanambal and decided not to write about it during these times, since that magnificent movie was overflowing with grief and certainly not need during these times. Sridhar is one of those directors who was one of the first Tamil directors who understood the grammar of cinema so well. His body of work is prolific and you can choose to see his work which suits your mood.

SS Vasan taught Indian cinema, what "Brahmandam" was. Young children will benefit seeing "Avaiyar". You can also catch up with Chandralekha, Vanjikottai Valiban and other works of his.

Coming to today's movies. One of them was just before Aval appadithan and the other was after.

Both these movies are timeless.

So much to learn, so much to enjoy and so much to be in awe.

Mahendran, Sir: Your truly God' gift to us

8/21, #lockdownenrichmentforthesoul, Indian Movie Recommendation

Aakrosh, 1980, Streaming on Youtube

There are some movies which do not feel the same, when you watch it over a period of time.

Thirty seven years later, when I watched Aakrosh, it feels not only the same, it feels infinitely better. 

Watching late in the night along with my sister, in 1983, on the TV, I was scared watching the movie. Watching in stark daylight after nearly four decades, it is as scary as every. This taut and suspenseful narration culminates in a stunning climax.

It is probably the best political thriller ever made.

Set in a small lazy village, you just wonder how the systemic malignancy has set in modern India as early as the late seventies.

Govind Nihalani's work is extremely important. He not only made Aakrosh, but also made Ardh Sathya, Tamas( The teleserial is available as Five hour 11 minutes film on Youtube) and Drohkaal among other films. I have seen KurudhiPunal (Drohkaal) in Tamil, which gave you the creeps in ample measure as well.

Written by Vijay Tendulkar and Satyadev Dubey, this is brilliantly shot with a perfect backgorund score by Ajit Varman.

Naseeruddin Shah, the intimidated lawyer with a clear conscience bravely fighting the system is terrific and so is Om Puri with intense eyes and silence.

This is a perfect treat for Cinema lovers