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.

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.

After watching Karnan, the main issue I felt with its screenplay was that it lacked any relief moments between the heavy or traumatic scenes. Nearly every scene carried some form of trauma. In Mamannan, while there weren't as many traumatic moments, and there were some pauses between heavy scenes, there still weren't enough contrasting or lighter moments.

However, in Vaazhai, these issues are not present. The screenplay includes some well-placed relief moments that allow the audience to slow down and regain energy before the trauma hits again.

After seeing Director Bala become emotional after watching this movie, I prepared myself for an intense emotional ride. Perhaps because I was expecting something overwhelming, I found that the movie wasn't as distressing or saddening as I anticipated. The film primarily addresses capitalist ideologies, and it is well-made, brilliantly portrayed, and effectively showcased.

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....

A heart-rending film directed by a master film maker.

Starting with a child's infatuation with a teacher it gradually takes on more serious issues. It is woven beautifully with one serious issue after another.

Based on a true story It is set in the end of last century.

The child actors have done exceedingly well. The cinematography is stunning The adults have played their parts perfectly. The old Illayaraja songs add magic to the storytelling.

His earlier films, Paraiyerum Perumal had set a high level. Karnan was just as good.

This film is without doubt his Magnum Opus.

Tamil cinema is in safe hands.