I don't think I've ever seen another movie in which the main language is Marathi. Nor am I aware of another Indian movie executive-produced by Alfonso Cuarón. Neither of those facts are why I checked this out; I just wanted a drama, and this one is short by Indian standards, at 127 minutes.
The story follows Sharad Nerulkar from young adulthood (with a childhood flashback or two) to...well, I'm not sure; the mustache might make him look older than he's supposed to be. The important thing, he goes from an amateur classical vocalist to enough of a pro to get many YouTube reactions in English. Nonetheless, he remains plagued by doubts, or perhaps certainty that he'll never equal his celebrated elderly tutor, Guruji. Maybe not even his strict father.
I certainly never heard this much Indian classical music in one evening before. Singing in that style is more difficult than I realized, given long and often tremulous notes. Small wonder they cast a real master for Guruji. I came to notice some difference in skill between him and Sharad, even if the finer points of artistry escaped.
Unfortunately, admiration takes me only so far. If you don't dig the sound or identify with the spiritual meaning behind it, there's not much to appreciate besides exoticism and perceived realism. The movie didn't feel long to me, but that's because it's not tightly packed. In terms of plot progression, very little happens. In terms of characterization, well, I didn't see fit to mention a fourth character.
I remember one thing happening (twice) that has nothing to do with musical ability or Guruji's fading health. It's the only evident reason for a TV-MA rating, and I wonder if the makers even had another reason to include it. It's disgusting and unimportant. At best, it shows how Sharad copes with not having time for a girlfriend.
TD may have lots of awards and nominations, but I don't recommend it. There are better ways to get acquainted with the music.
No comments:
Post a Comment