Kaala (2018)

Oh, how I wish I had watched this one in the theatre! The goosebumps, the tears, everything would have been magnified— perfect experience. 

However, what is up with Pa Ranjith always killing off my favourite characters?? Not fair, sir. Not fair at all.

Aside from this though, Kaala is yet another testament to the director's genius, and proof of how he is one of the most important filmmakers of our times. As one of my best friends pointed out, most anti-caste films have revolved around individual journeys and struggles— but Ranjith takes that to another level by showing Dalit political leadership, and how it works. 

Instead of the usual "trauma porn", we get Dalits positioned as mainstream heroes and heroines of their stories, unafraid to fight for what is rightfully theirs, proud of their identity in a world that thinks up new ways of suppressing their voices. It is a powerful moment in cinema, one that we should all be thankful to Ranjith for.

The film has its flaws— primarily, I wish Huma Qureishi's role was given to an older actress, seeing her as Zareena was jarring— but if it's these flaws that trouble you more than what the film has to say about the world we live in, you really need to introspect.

If I had to pick, my favourite part of the movie would be Kaala's naming itself. There is a whole history and culture of casteism behind it, one that hits the viewer extra hard by virtue of how the movie chooses to highlight it. 

There are so many other moments though, but I don't think I am emotionally ready to write an 8k piece detailing the intricacies of Kaala just yet. Once I finish my dissertation, I guess I'll be more prepared. And less overwhelmed. All hail Ranjith saaar! 

PS- I think I am truly entering my Rajinikanth phase now.