Vaazhai

Vaazhai is more than just a film and those who have experienced it knows it leaves a mark - a film that is psychologically draining yet ultimately heartwarming coming-of-age journey that evokes smiles but with a heavy heart. It is a remarkable film from threads of real life events from director Mari Selvaraj's own life.

It follows the arduous journey of young Sivanaindhan, living with his mother and sister in the idyllic yet challenging village of Puliyankulam near Tirunelveli. He and his best friend Sekar navigate the treacherous terrain of poverty, a relentless cycle of labor mirroring the hardships. Sivanaindhan has a morbid wish, might sound messed up but he hopes that someone in the village passes away daily so he can avoid the laborious task of lugging. The banter between both about Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth is sure to elicit laughter from audiences and this adds a layer of humor to the film.

However, amidst the harsh realities, a delicate beauty unfolds. Despite the weight of existence, Sivanaindhan remains steadfast in his studies, finding solace in the gentle gaze of teacher Poongkodi.

Furthermore, Sivanaindhan's obsession with Poongkoodi reaches new heights as he not only sniffs her handkerchief and hums songs named after her but also accompanies her on her daily errands, such as visiting the rice mill. This is like a beacon of hope for the young Sivanaindhan who doesn't want to miss school amidst the tempest of life that demands he carry banana plantains to repay the debt of his late Father. The film's emotional climax and surreal imagery are hallmarks of Mari Selvaraj's distinctive style. The director skillfully employs a raw sequence involving paper cuttings to reveal the true incident.

Mari Selvaraj, a master storyteller, paints a vivid portrait of childhood with a fine balance between nature's elements and the village's intricate caste dynamics. The cinematography captures the beauty and the brutality of rural life with equal poignancy. Additionally, Mari Selvaraj's approach to the film's intermission was particularly noteworthy. Instead of relying on the conventional template, he opted for a more retro-inspired cinematic technique, utilizing on-screen text to echo Sivanaindhan's internal turmoil and his vow to his mother.

For some, the boy's daily life might seem mundane, and the village life, with its fights and caste divides, might appear like not an everyday affair to city dwellers. But I guarantee you that Vaazhai provides a unique perspective, showcasing the complexities of rural life that often go unnoticed as it delves deeper revealing another side of Sivanendhan's inner world. His coming-of-age experiences, a delicate blend of joy and sorrow, which will be rewarding for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.

RATED 7/10 Language: Tamil Media Partner: Hotstar Source: Nil

The movie has powerful and highly impacting climax. The complete story is (very) slowly moving towards that climax portion. All these slow narration adding more impact for the climax. But one point of time you will get bored with the lengthy shots and unnecessary stretch of some scene sequences.

This movie definitely lack the eventful screenplay of "Pariyerum perumal". There is not much events in the first half and most of the events are get windup in second half only. I almost went to snooze state when "panchu mittai" song stretches, but the next scene its stunning....

Bear the slow and uneventful narration for the climax....

"**Vaazhai**" is a deeply resonant film that serves as both a cinematic experience and a poignant exploration of life in rural India. Directed with a masterful blend of sensitivity and realism, the film presents a narrative that is as much about survival as it is about hope. With its authentic portrayal of the struggles faced by its characters, "Vaazhai" captures the essence of a world that is often overlooked in mainstream cinema.

Set in a remote village in Tamil Nadu, the film centers on a young boy who dreams of a better life amidst the harsh realities of his environment. His journey is one of resilience and determination, as he navigates the challenges that come his way with an unwavering spirit. The director, through his nuanced storytelling, ensures that the boy's story is not just about individual struggle but also about the broader socio-economic issues that plague rural India.

The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the environment and the lives of the characters. This slow pace might be a deterrent for some, but it is crucial for the kind of storytelling "Vaazhai" aims to achieve. The narrative unfolds gradually, giving the audience time to absorb the intricacies of village life and the complex emotions that come with it. This approach also highlights the stark contrast between the serenity of the rural landscape and the underlying tension of daily survival.

One of the most striking aspects of "Vaazhai" is its cinematography. The film is a visual treat, with each frame meticulously composed to reflect the beauty and brutality of rural life. The lush green fields, the rustic homes, and the faces of the villagers are all captured with an authenticity that makes the film feel almost like a documentary. The use of natural light enhances the realism, while the camera's intimate focus on the characters adds depth to their emotional experiences. The visual storytelling in "Vaazhai" is so powerful that even without dialogue, the audience can feel the weight of the characters' struggles.

The performances in "Vaazhai" are another highlight of the film. The cast, consisting mostly of non-professional actors, delivers performances that are raw and deeply moving. The young protagonist, in particular, gives a performance that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. His portrayal of a boy caught between the innocence of childhood and the harsh realities of adulthood is nuanced and compelling. The supporting cast also does an excellent job of bringing the village to life, with each character adding to the richness of the story.

The film's music and sound design play a subtle yet significant role in enhancing the overall experience. The score is understated, blending seamlessly with the natural sounds of the village. It serves to underscore the emotions of the characters without ever overwhelming the narrative. The use of silence is also noteworthy, as it amplifies the tension in key moments and allows the audience to fully engage with the story on an emotional level.

"Vaazhai" is a film that doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of rural life, yet it is also a film that is full of hope. The director does an excellent job of balancing these two elements, creating a narrative that is both realistic and uplifting. The film addresses important social issues, such as poverty, education, and the rural-urban divide, but it does so in a way that feels organic to the story,

In conclusion, "Vaazhai" is a beautifully crafted film that offers a rare and intimate glimpse into a world that is often ignored by mainstream cinema. It is a film that challenges the viewer to think deeply about the issues it presents, while also offering a message of hope and resilience. For those who appreciate films that are both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging, "Vaazhai" is a must-watch. Its combination of stunning visuals, powerful performances, and a compelling narrative make it a standout film in contemporary Indian cinema.

The film seems to be a slow-burn narrative that resonates more with an audience familiar with rural life and its everyday struggles, rather than catering to mainstream entertainment. While it lacks the high-paced drama or action many viewers might expect, the technical aspects such as cinematography, direction, acting, and background score are undoubtedly praiseworthy, which is often a hallmark of art films.

The comparison to Rahul Dravid's batting style -steady, technically sound, and unflashy - perfectly encapsulates the film's approach. It's methodical and patient, not relying on extravagant or high-intensity moments, but rather on the steady build-up of simple yet meaningful storytelling. The climax, as you pointed out, brings everything together and provides a satisfying conclusion, making the earlier slow pace feel justified.

In summary, Vazhai appears to be a well-crafted art film, best suited for audiences with an appreciation for subtle, authentic filmmaking rather than those seeking high entertainment value.

"**Vazhai**" is a film that truly left a deep impact on me. It cannot be categorized as a movie meant for just one community; it is a film for all Tamilians. The movie speaks about the exploitation of labor, about love, and the pains of life. It is a must-watch for the younger generation as well. The cinematographer beautifully captures the essence of our land, from a mother cow that has lost its calf, to the millipedes that appear during the rainy season, and even the Odakkan. I could go on and on about this film. This is a quality life-drama film in Tamil cinema. Must watch in theatres, at least send this to the Oscar.