Aran Tamil Movie
"Aran" is an engrossing but intellectually thin film that purports to explain how terrorists groups work out to create tension, fear and chaos in India. In the process the narration touches the life and struggle of the commandos serving the Border Security Forces. While this forms the basis of the movie, as a subset, the bond between a chief of a commando unit and his trusted lieutenant is told with aplomb.
The power of "Aran" based on the true happenings in the Kashmir valley, is its ability to slip between tones, while retaining its gritty credibility. Its endearing appeal and its fundamental message - if united we can win the war on terror - is told in a way that will behold anyone with patriotic feelings.
Not often that we come across service personal who have a flare for film direction. Major Ravi, who had served in army, is quite different in that. With 'Aran' he has launched himself as a writer-director and is largely successful. The director's major achievement is his ability to make the viewers feel that they are in thick of action; come to care for the hero's causes as much as he does.
Challenges of the commando forces guarding the borders of Jammu and Kashmir in tackling terrorist outfits, hard experiences and durable social bonds are the themes that are dealt by the film-maker. Ravi's practical and thorough knowledge of his subject and his masterful, underplayed story telling technique make the film look authentic, realistic, and inspiring.
Here goes the story...
Major Mahadevan (Mohanlal) heads an elite command force, in charge of fighting terrorism and protecting the interest of the county. The commandos with their exceptional skills in counter terrorism, thwarts militants' every attempt to disturb the peace in the valley. Mahadevan and his team save the public from attempted bombings, kidnappings, and extortions by the militants.
Havildar Jayakumar (Jeeva), a trusted man of Mahadevan in the team, with his bravery contributes his mite for the success of the elite commandos.
A terrorist outfit headed by an Afghan nawab draws plans to blow up the famous Hazrathbal Shrine in Jammu and Kashmir and create communal tension and disharmony in India. Mahadevan, Jayakumar and team sets out to foil the mission. What follows is tremendously exciting stuff, with the emergence of unexpected militants and situation spiraling out of control. The brilliant portrayal of elite commandos' martyrdom at the end is the major draw of the movie.
Both Mohanlal and Jeeva perform with skill and realism, matched by good cinematography that styles films aesthetics. Mohanlal plays his role to the T. His body language and facial expressions go well with his character. Jeeva is appearing after his successful Dishoom. There is more polish and poise to his work these days.
Gopika is insubstantial and dream like in characterization that you don't feel her screen presence. Apart from her refreshingly ordinary demeanor, there is nothing much to tell about. The other support casts are Biju Menon, Lakshmi Gopalasamy, Ganja Karuppu and Haneefa are mere caricatures.
Joshua Sridhar's lively background score maintains the pace. Thiru's cinematography adds the welcome poignancy.
The end result is a joy to behold.
