“Paradise,” a film by veteran Sri Lankan director Prasanna Vithanage, made its South Asia premiere at the Mumbai Film Festival, receiving critical acclaim and leaving audiences in awe. This beautifully realized drama is a profound exploration of human frailty, morality, and humanity in the face of a nation teetering on the brink of economic collapse. In this review, we delve into the intricacies of “Paradise,” highlighting its exceptional storytelling, multi-layered characters, and the expertly woven themes that make it a cinematic masterpiece.
A Multifaceted Tale:
“Paradise” is not your typical marital discord drama set in an idyllic location. Instead, it weaves together layers of consciousness, from the timeless to the contemporary, to create a thought-provoking narrative. The film’s narrative is centered around a marriage on the verge of disintegration, buffeted by the events transpiring in a world fraught with uncertainty. This instability mirrors the nation’s own precarious state, where economic ruin looms, and societal values are put to the test.
The story unfolds as a young Malayali couple, Kesav (Roshan Mathew) and Amritha (Darshana Rajendran), embark on a Ramayana tour of Sri Lanka to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary. However, their journey coincides with an economic downturn in the island nation, leading to shortages of essential commodities, fuel, and electricity. This backdrop sets the stage for a series of events that span personal and political, intimate and existential realms.
Kesav, a filmmaker, is grappling with professional uncertainties while waiting for a decision on a project he has pitched. The couple’s trip to Sri Lanka, now more affordable due to the economic crisis, is intended to provide Kesav with a much-needed distraction from his anxieties.
However, their journey takes an unexpected turn when they encounter Andrew (Shyam Fernando), their driver and tour guide, who shares mythic stories related to the Ramayana. The couple’s idyllic visit to a bungalow in the midst of a lush forest is disrupted by a crisis that sends them and the nation into turmoil. Amritha and Kesav react differently as events spiral out of control, revealing the inner workings of their minds.
Nuanced Storytelling:
What sets “Paradise” apart is its reliance on visual storytelling over words. The film’s screenplay is replete with meaningful silences and expressions, allowing the two lead actors, Roshan Mathew and Darshana Rajendran, to deliver understated yet powerful performances. Much is left unsaid, and the audience is encouraged to decipher the underlying meanings of the characters’ actions and reactions.
Vithanage’s exploration of human behavior is particularly striking because it involves individuals who have no control over their circumstances. Kesav, in his own world, believes he has everything under control, while Amritha, sensitive and attuned to the beauty around her, grapples with moral dilemmas. The clash of ideals within their marriage leads to a silent battle that ultimately erupts, highlighting the emotional, ethical, and marital complexities at play.
Character Dynamics:
Apart from the central couple, “Paradise” introduces a few other characters inhabiting the tourist bungalow. These characters, such as the caretaker Shree (Sumith Ilango) and the cook Iqbal (Isham Samzudeen), add depth to the story. Their roles and relationships within the narrative further emphasize the film’s exploration of human nature and the complexities of their reactions in the face of adversity.
Themes and Ambiguities:
“Paradise” uses the backdrop of mass unrest in the nation and references to the Ramayana, a Hindu epic with over 50 associated sites in Sri Lanka, to underscore the central narrative. It delves into themes of moral ambiguity, gender dynamics, and societal unrest. Vithanage does not seek to provide clear-cut answers; instead, he presents these themes with a sense of ambiguity, inviting the audience to ponder and question.
As Kesav and Amritha attempt to navigate the crisis they find themselves in, they are drawn deeper into a quagmire of moral and ethical dilemmas. The film reveals a stark contrast in their approaches to the world, with Kesav being pragmatic to the point of self-serving and Amritha’s moral compass remaining unwavering.
Performance and Direction:
Roshan Mathew’s portrayal of Kesav is marked by poise and a seamless transition from an amiable facade to questionable decision-making. His performance captures the character’s internal conflict with precision. Darshana Rajendran’s portrayal of Amritha is the heart of the film. With her expressive eyes, she conveys a wide range of emotions, adding depth and richness to her character.
Prasanna Vithanage’s direction is masterful, as he skillfully navigates the complex web of human emotions and societal turmoil. The film’s exploration of a nation in crisis is juxtaposed with the turmoil within the central characters, creating a multi-layered narrative that keeps the audience engaged and contemplative.
Rating- 4.5
Conclusion:
“Paradise” is a beautifully realized drama that goes beyond the surface to explore the intricacies of human nature, morality, and the impact of external crises on personal relationships. Vithanage’s storytelling is subtle yet profound, and the film’s characters are crafted with depth and nuance. The expert blending of visual storytelling, thematic ambiguity, and exceptional performances make “Paradise” a cinematic masterpiece that leaves a lasting impact. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, making it a must-watch for film enthusiasts and those interested in probing the depths of human morality and resilience. “Paradise” is truly beyond masterful.
