Geethanjali

Geetanjali, a great movie by Mani Ratnam with arguably the best music album of Ilayaraja...

This is the only Telugu movie directed by mani ratnam till date and he has ensured that his place in the annals of telugu movie history is safe with this movie.

Ilayaraja, that maestro of Indian movie music is known for providing his best to Mani Ratnam. Even considering this, Geetanjali was Ilayaraja's greatest single album ever.

Both Mani & Ilayaraja were at a great advantage, working in this movie because they were unencumbered by living up to the expectations of their native Tamil movie background.

As it emerged both of them reached heights they never did before or after with this movie... (yeah, i know the entire series of maniratnam's movies and most of Ilayaraja's music...)

The main protagonist's death is but a matter of ti me, and the leading lady is in a similar situation. But as it happens, the protagonist learns to live his life "in the now" from the leading lady and in the process they grow together. I wont say they fall in love because the movie never considers the romantic side of their life.

Despite there being a whole song showing them kissing each other, it does not appear that they are sexually involved. That song depicts them getting together as companions in their struggle against their destiny, rather than sexually involved.

Other aspects of the movie worth mentioning are the great photography and fabulous screenplay. Despite being saddled with a large number of songs, and no real story to speak of, viewer will never feel the time ticking by during the movie.

And at the end of the movie, you think if only this movie lasted longer... That probably is the best compliment you can give a movie.

The comedy track interspersed with the movie is the only part that sticks out like a sore thumb and i think that was mani's way of taking care of the commercial interests of the producer. Luckily in most versions on television that i saw eliminated this track and i never missed this piece. But i detest this track and so the movie gets only 8 out of 10.

This is the best movie I have ever seen. It still is even though the year is 2005. Mani's talent is proved in this single movie. This movie made him my favourite director. I keep watching this movie at my leisure time. I would have seen this movie at least for 25 times. I remember each and every scene. A great inspirer at times of problems. The story is about how two lovers who struggle for their love inspite of the pathetic situation they are in. Each and every character has acted naturally. They have lived their roles which makes this movie more interesting to watch. This movie also shows that life should be lived to the extent possible and love between a mother and a son is very well shown. Love in its pure form is shown in this movie. This movie is for every age and a good movie to watch with a family. I suggest this as a must see movie. I have this movie 9 even though I could have easily given it 10. Don't miss this movie.

"Geethanjali," directed by Mani Ratnam, is a timeless romantic drama that weaves a tapestry of love, destiny, and sacrifice. The film's narrative, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Nilgiri Hills, unfolds as a poignant love story between Prakash (Nagarjuna) and Geethanjali (Girija Shettar). Ratnam's masterful direction brings forth the emotional depth of the characters, making their journey a compelling and relatable experience.

Nagarjuna delivers a stellar performance, capturing the nuances of Prakash's character with a perfect blend of charm and vulnerability. Girija Shettar's portrayal of Geethanjali is equally captivating, adding layers to the romantic narrative. The chemistry between the lead pair is palpable, creating an on-screen magic that resonates with audiences.

Ratnam's storytelling is enriched by Ilaiyaraaja's soul-stirring music, with iconic tracks like "O Priya Priya" becoming timeless classics. The film's cinematography, handled by P. C. Sreeram, paints a visual masterpiece, capturing the breathtaking landscapes.

I have shed a tear watching this movie on more than one occasion. And all I need say is this: If a movie makes you a shed a tear, the movie has moved you to a point emotionally or tapped into something emotionally which the vast majority of things in life do not manage to do. It has managed to get past all the defenses that seek to protect us and get to you!

The performances, direction, music, and choreography are simply exceptional. Sure one can poke holes in elements if they really tried, and this is the case for most movies, but the key is this -- if it managed to hook you and caused you shed a tear or be moved emotionally, its won you over and done its job.

Outstanding movie and one I will continue to watch during my lifetime.

"Geethanjali," directed by Mani Ratnam, is a timeless romantic drama that weaves a tapestry of love, destiny, and sacrifice. The film's narrative, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Nilgiri Hills, unfolds as a poignant love story between Prakash (Nagarjuna) and Geethanjali (Girija Shettar). Ratnam's masterful direction brings forth the emotional depth of the characters, making their journey a compelling and relatable experience.

Nagarjuna delivers a stellar performance, capturing the nuances of Prakash's character with a perfect blend of charm and vulnerability. Girija Shettar's portrayal of Geethanjali is equally captivating, adding layers to the romantic narrative. The chemistry between the lead pair is palpable, creating an on-screen magic that resonates with audiences.

Ratnam's storytelling is enriched by Ilaiyaraaja's soul-stirring music, with iconic tracks like "O Priya Priya" becoming timeless classics. The film's cinematography, handled by P. C. Sreeram, paints a visual masterpiece, capturing the breathtaking landscapes.