Friday Review: Purambokku (Engira Podhuvudamai)

I don’t think films are meant for entertainment alone, and life isn’t entertainment as well, but Purambokku does a bit along with convection of communism. People who want a change in watching from the usual valour and haunting stories; Purambokku will put you upright if you’re interested in social welfare. Revolved around a death penalty, the Tamil film captured the courageous, emotions of three young men who involved in the proceeding.

Balu has been sentenced to death by the court for involved in terrorism and antisocial activities and the assignment (to put him hang) has been given to the Jail Superintendent Macaulay, but who doesn’t have the right or willingness to do, sought-after an hangman and thus finds Yemalingam, who come from the family of hangmanship – whose father and grandfather were hangmen and he himself has done the job as a young boy assisting his father.

Yemalingam, a alcoholic, who works as a railroad switch operator, first denied taking away the task (as he already in distress being fell into the pit of hangmanship) agrees later when Balu’s comrades, who initially intend to kill him, induce him in their plan to escape Balu from the prison. Do comrades succeed in their mission? And how challenging the venture was was set in an interesting manner leading all the way to ending with anticipation and apprehension.

Arya (Balu) in the role of revolutionary has performed well and although he seems quite and fearless at his attitude he maintained the seriousness throughout which is something new for this always cool guy. Karthika Nair as his close associate is perfect choice for the female lead of revolutionaries and her right physique easily achieved the role. Vijay Sethupathi as hangman has conveyed the difficulties and distress though his perspective is highly appreciative.  

Shyam as Macaulay is one character that impressed me lot.  In the role of jail superintendent, he does a job that was animate to the character that ruled out anything humane when it comes to complete his task with great authority – what makes the climax crucial. Apart actors, who overall given fine performance, the technicians behind the screen needs a special mention. The background score (by Srikanth Deva) has been significant and pulsation of Purambokku – meaning unknown person.

The artwork, esp. in the setting of the prison and gallows, was amazing and provides great detailing that haven’t perceived before. And it is a special area (artwork) where the director S.P Jananathan’s movies standout and his earlier one (Iyarkai) has got National Award, where the old lighthouse setting was impressive. Cinematography is another interesting area where I like the light and tone setting that varies from landscapes to diminish prison cells.

There are couple of Kuttu songs and many scenes relevant to prison are pretty older to drag over all apart some incomplete/unclear paths where understanding becomes difficult.  But the second part sustains the thrill and emotions have been well drawn. Although the film is about revolution and capital punishment, the best part I consider was the characters and expression of right emotions where the director has to be appreciated for bringing them out.