Arulvaan Movie Review: A One-Dimensional PSA
In the realm of cinema, the art of storytelling is a powerful tool. It can convey important messages and evoke emotions, but only if the medium is respected and utilized effectively. The film Arulvaan, directed by Ganesh Vinayakan, attempts to address a significant issue: the exploitation and oppression faced by the illiterate tribal community. However, despite its noble intentions, the movie falls short due to its unidimensional approach and poor execution.
The film's central character is a young tribal girl, Kurinji, played by Kritika. While Kritika delivers an emotionally charged performance, the director's decision to have Ramya Pandian portray the adult version of Kurinji in the climax feels unearned. The character's transformation and resolution are rushed, taking away from the impact of the moment. Furthermore, the performances of the supporting cast, such as Arav as Kurinji's father and John Vijay as a perverted cop, lack depth and authenticity.
One of the film's most noticeable flaws is its dialogue. The characters speak in a sappy, old-fashioned manner, which is jarring in a movie aiming to portray a grounded and realistic story. The use of poetic language and measured pauses, reminiscent of classical theatre, disrupts the flow and takes viewers out of the intended world. For instance, the line "Saamikku vecha padayala naai nakkuna adhu saamiya asinga paduthuna maari aagathu" (If a dog takes a bite out of the offering to the gods, it is not an offense to the gods) feels out of place in a contemporary context. The dialogue should have been more natural and reflective of real-life conversations.
The film's music and pacing also contribute to the overall one-dimensionality. The background score and sound design often dictate the audience's emotions, which can be overwhelming and artificial. The director's impatience is evident, as the film rushes through important scenes, leaving viewers with a sense of incompleteness. The inclusion of real news clips during the credits, while impactful, feels like an afterthought and further emphasizes the film's lack of coherence.
In conclusion, Arulvaan fails to deliver a compelling narrative due to its unidimensional approach and poor execution. The film's message, while important, is overshadowed by its shoddy making, which results in an unintentional form of exploitation. The director's efforts to respect the Kaadar tribal language and culture are commendable, but they are not enough to salvage the overall quality of the movie. It is a missed opportunity to tell a powerful story that respects the medium and its audience.
