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Bookmark this pagePiravi (1988)
Director: Shaji
Movie review
From Time Out Film Guide
An unusual first film in many ways, centered around an absent hero, an engineering student at the state capital. His father, who lives in a remote coastal village, expects his son's imminent return, and journeys each evening to the bus stop, only to be disappointed. Following a report of police arrest, the old man makes a painful trip to the city, but discovers nothing. It becomes clear that the son will not be coming back. Writer/director Shaji and his 83-year-old star Premji make the father's pain and confusion heartbreakingly authentic in what is a profoundly sensual film: the sheer effort of walking, the abrasive physical presence of the elements. At the same time, it addresses current political concerns: the infringement of the modern world on traditional beliefs; establishment corruption; the role of women; education. A master of nuance and mood, Shaji values grace and the human spirit, but the film ends on a tragically ambivalent note. Quiet and contemplative in conception, it is deeply moving in effect.Author: TCh
Cast & crew
Director: Shaji
Cast: Premji, SV Raman, Chandran Nair, Mullaneyi, Kottara Gopalakrishnan full cast
Duration: 110 mins
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