Life is a bundle of contradictions and a cocktail of emotions. 'Society' is, quite often, a binding term that dives us away from the so-called comfort zones. On that very question of social bonds hinges Aashiq Abu's latest flick Rani Padmini.
Films generally fall in two major categories; one, which gives its message so vociferously and the other that speaks out through subtle nuances. Aashiq seems to have chosen the latter one. It's a journey through stories and a search for sights and the self. (Yes, the director also airs a message for road safety).
When it's a film with female protagonists it would definitely mean to hint woman empowerment. And that could be the major reason why women outnumbered men for the first show on the first day.
Starting from Ottapalam, the film takes us through Chandigarh, Delhi, Manali, Jispa en-route to Leh giving us a glimpse into the life of Padmini (Manju Warrier).
Padmini gets married to Giri (Jino Joseph) and goes to Chandigarh with family. A series of events forces her to leave for 'The Great Himalayan Rally', a motor sport event. And there she meets Rani (Rima Kallingal) who is on a different route. Why and how is left for you to know! The first 40 minutes develop at a fast pace with flashbacks, songs and the beginning of the journey. Then comes the interval (which seems to be sudden and we eagerly wait for the film to resume at the earliest) and the second half is all the more gripping with a steady pace taking the movie to a higher level.
While Manju carries the film ahead with her charm and comical whims, Rima flourishes with her tomboyish mannerisms and natural self. The short and curly locks with a 'cool dude' attitude is perfectly presented by Rima.
Casting deserves a special mention. Each character is way too perfect. Sajitha Madathil, Jinu Joseph, Sreenath Bhasi, Soubin Shahir, Dileesh Pothan, Binu Pappu, Rajitha Madhu, Hareesh Khanna all are at their artistic best. (Wonder where on earth did Aashiq discover the little Rani and little Padmini who exactly resemble their grown up counterparts).
Madhu Neelakandan does a commendable job with his picturesque cinematography. The places, the chill, the scenic beauty blend well with the characters. There is a warm familiarity and exotic wonderment to the visual delights he paints for us.
Syam Pushkaran and Ravi Sankar penned the screenplay and dialogues that are crisp and coherent. The songs, which are already a hit, may not need an introduction, but Bijibal who is collaborating with Aashiq for a fifth time knows how to hit the right notes.
Well, all credit goes to the one who drives the tour safely- Aashiq. Hats off to the man who did an awesome job by taking the journey through a female perspective. Probably, a good shot after 22 Female Kottayam.
The film isn’t merely concerned with cataloguing the mesmerising landscapes. However, it washes away the grimness concealed within two wounded souls - Rani and Padmini.
Rani Padmini is a visual treat where travel is an artistry; a narrative that unfolds the adventures of its two protagonists learning (and unlearning) a few precious lessons about the capricious life when it's tackled head-on.
(Message: Why do we travel?)
Rating: 3/5