Paddayi

I am glad this was recommended to me today and I had enough time before leaving for work to watch it on YouTube (uploaded by the director himself). The Tulu adaptation of Macbeth stands out due to the performances by the main couple whose characters were firmly etched out to show the obedience to the diety, something that is driven by their social status as well as their greed for wealth. How well the innocent turn the opposite and even when they are hit hard with the guilt of their actions, perfectly enacted on screen.

The story set in the fisherman community, Madhava & his wife, the newly weds with far bigger dreams are starting their life together. He works for Dineshanna, who in returns knows Madhava is a trump card for his fishing business. Dinesh's son is not interested in the family business and is hellbent on moving to Dubai. The difference in their classes, lives is well established. Even assuming the diety's words as his command, Madhava's innocence is full on display too. The greed and betrayal that follows over wealth followed by not escaping the destined consequences, makes this one a must watch.

P. S. I wish they had used more of the sea as part of the narrative which would have supremely elevated the climax.

The film shouldn't be compared to any Macbeth adaptation.

Keeping the fishing community in the foreground, the Tulunaad Daivas and Yakshagaana as a certain means of ignition and flow (respectively) in the screenplay and with lust for a simple materialistic thing as the instigator, this film is wonderfully made with a really haunting background music. The lead actors, though I haven't seen them in any films previously have done a simple yet brilliant job in their fields. The support cast are also in their own leagues. The locations are apt to the story telling with cinematographer doing his best. The direction too is applause worthy.

As for the story, the old woman in the wheel chair was of no relevance. Post the 'chilling incident', the intensity of the lead characters being haunted by what they have done is not as strong as it should have been. The same BG music is everywhere and is at times a tad too much.

In short, a film made in the midst of releases of unwanted and shamelessly made comedy films with over acting theater actors, has made Tulunaad proud.

I watched it on Amazon Prime (..was very happy to find a Tulu film of such caliber on Amazon Prime).

Congratulations to Abhaya Simha and Team. Well done.