Bharathiraja, in his genre of films, was a filmmaker ahead of his time. His ability to depict realism, extracting outstanding performances from his lead actors and his contextual take on a divisive society was truly exceptional. I took 2 films as an example that showcases Bharathiraja’s brilliance on screen.
Mudhal Mariyadhai (முதல் மரியதாய்)
I know it features the thespian, Sivaji Ganesan. But when MM happened, Sivaji was way beyond his mercurial prime. He still, nevertheless, was the formidable actor he always was, but the way Bharathiraja managed him to depict that middle aged man, whose trouble, vulnerable relationship with his wife leads to a prohibited, affectionate connect with a village girl – seems almost flawless today. In many ways, it sounds cliche, almost replicated by numerous filmmakers who have tried to emulate Bharathiraja. But way back, it stood out for audacity, compassion and being a very subtle, underplayed love story of its time.. The beauty of their relationship lies in the maturity and the ability to restrain their feelings for each other despite so desperately seeking for love and affection. Each of the characters and their relationship etched with each other, in a way, spoke volumes about Bharathiraja’s uncanny demeanour to deal with human relationships, ability of his characters to emote or the sheer lack of it in a very nuanced fashion. The outcome, was a very underrated film which went on attain cult status over the years, remembered for a magnetic performance from our beloved Nadigar Thilagam, an effortless, charming Radha and flawless execution by Bharathiraja.
Vedam Pudhithu (வேதம் புதிது)
This film stands out for a divisive content that became the benchmark in the genre of mainstream and parallel cinema (way back it was popularly known as art films). It showcased caste differences and societal taboo in a very explicit, yet subtle way and the impact stayed with me for a very long time. In fact, even today the film would pass the test of time. Sathyaraj was cast in a lead role for the first time, and perhaps his most memorable one. Not surprisingly, it has string references from real life incidents and personalities but it remains astonishingly relatable and contemporary. A definite ode to the craft of Bharathiraja as a filmmaker who understood his cinema which is deep rooted in culture and religion, and was able to execute them with perfectly curated characters.
@Lifeoholic 