Nayanthara convincing as Seetha
★ INTRODUCTION
MOST people know the story of Rama and Seetha up to the point where they return triumphantly to Ayodhya. But few know the story of what happens thereafter. This is the basis for Raam — The King in Blue, the latest Tamil film to be released in local cinemas. The Balakrishna and Nayanthara starrer won seven state awards, including best feature film. The supporting cast are Shrikanth, ★ STORY
THE plot begins with the arrival of Rama (Balakrishna) and Seetha (Nayanthara) in Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. They are greeted by thousands of their subjects who eagerly await their rule after the formal induction. When Rama learns that Seetha is pregnant, he is overjoyed. But that soon turns to dismay when he hears that some people are questioning Seetha’s chastity after her prolonged incarceration at Ravana’s abode. ★ PERFORMANCES
BALAKRISHNA does the bare minimum required of the role, whereas Nayanthara is a pleasant surprise, slipping easily into character. Saikumar is, as usual, in a very fiery role. ★ DIRECTION
BAPU has employed many of yesteryear’s religious film techniques with the intention of recreating that magic. The result is a casual attitude with many glaring errors which weaken the presentation.
★ CINEMATOGRAPHY
PRK Raju’s effort does not get much room for experimentation with light usage as most of the
project is shot on filmsets. But he does well to capture the magnitude, splendour and beauty of the sets.
★ SCREENPLAY AND SCRIPTING
DOTTED with numerous songs that move the narrative along, the film follows a good pace and remains true to Valmiki’s version of the Ramayana book. ★ MUSIC ISAI Gnani Ilayaraja’s music is surprisingly subdued in the background score. His songs, however, elevate the project in numerous places. ★ OVERALL
RAAM— The King in Blue is compulsive viewing for those who wish to see the balance of the story of Rama and Seetha.
Saikumar and KR Vijaya.