Vaazhai

Vaazhai is more than just a film and those who have experienced it knows it leaves a mark - a film that is psychologically draining yet ultimately heartwarming coming-of-age journey that evokes smiles but with a heavy heart. It is a remarkable film from threads of real life events from director Mari Selvaraj's own life.

It follows the arduous journey of young Sivanaindhan, living with his mother and sister in the idyllic yet challenging village of Puliyankulam near Tirunelveli. He and his best friend Sekar navigate the treacherous terrain of poverty, a relentless cycle of labor mirroring the hardships. Sivanaindhan has a morbid wish, might sound messed up but he hopes that someone in the village passes away daily so he can avoid the laborious task of lugging. The banter between both about Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth is sure to elicit laughter from audiences and this adds a layer of humor to the film.

However, amidst the harsh realities, a delicate beauty unfolds. Despite the weight of existence, Sivanaindhan remains steadfast in his studies, finding solace in the gentle gaze of teacher Poongkodi.

Furthermore, Sivanaindhan's obsession with Poongkoodi reaches new heights as he not only sniffs her handkerchief and hums songs named after her but also accompanies her on her daily errands, such as visiting the rice mill. This is like a beacon of hope for the young Sivanaindhan who doesn't want to miss school amidst the tempest of life that demands he carry banana plantains to repay the debt of his late Father. The film's emotional climax and surreal imagery are hallmarks of Mari Selvaraj's distinctive style. The director skillfully employs a raw sequence involving paper cuttings to reveal the true incident.

Mari Selvaraj, a master storyteller, paints a vivid portrait of childhood with a fine balance between nature's elements and the village's intricate caste dynamics. The cinematography captures the beauty and the brutality of rural life with equal poignancy. Additionally, Mari Selvaraj's approach to the film's intermission was particularly noteworthy. Instead of relying on the conventional template, he opted for a more retro-inspired cinematic technique, utilizing on-screen text to echo Sivanaindhan's internal turmoil and his vow to his mother.

For some, the boy's daily life might seem mundane, and the village life, with its fights and caste divides, might appear like not an everyday affair to city dwellers. But I guarantee you that Vaazhai provides a unique perspective, showcasing the complexities of rural life that often go unnoticed as it delves deeper revealing another side of Sivanendhan's inner world. His coming-of-age experiences, a delicate blend of joy and sorrow, which will be rewarding for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.