Sunday, April 25, 2010

Vihir (2009) (8/10)

This is the story of two teen-aged cousins. The first half is of the slightly older one (Nachiket) who is starting to ask himself some abstract questions about being as he sees around him relations that are not completely healthy, but are shown to be that way so that minds don't get hurt. He hopes to go away from all this. He is the idol of his younger cousin (Samir) who is visiting. Samir does not understand what Nachiket is talking about - and thinks Nachiket is going to run away, and shortly thereafter his own journey starts.

It is an extremely well made, well acted movie which deals with the unanswerable question of death and what it means and how it should be handled. Music, photography, repetitions (the well, swimming, dripping water, biking, bus rides) are used effectively to create an atmosphere that keeps you bound to the theme. The relations between the large family and their nuances are brought out very well and provide a nice skeleton to the story.

Somewhat philosophical in nature if you look at it the right way. Half way through it may seem to proceed rather slowly, but it is necessary to create the atmosphere, and it picks speed in the second half. Overall, no complaints. Well worth taking a dip in the vihir.

Vihir (2009) (8/10)

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