Pa. Ranjith truly excels at creating immersive worlds, and “Thangalaan” is no exception. From the very start, you feel the authenticity of its period setting, including the clothing, language, and the daily lives of characters like Thangalaan (Vikram) and Gangamma (Parvathy). Ranjith has a remarkable talent for building communities in his films, allowing multiple authentic characters to share the frame, and he does this beautifully in “Thangalaan.” A standout moment is the portrayal of Malavika Mohanan as a warrior-goddess figure, which is compelling and memorable.
However, there’s a sense of dread that lingers, especially for those familiar with the style of Bala cinema. When the villagers appear to live peacefully, it often hints at impending horror. In the second half, as the film presents a dream for the villagers alongside a song, you can’t help but feel a sense of foreboding. True to his revolutionary spirit, Ranjith doesn’t dwell too much on the details of the villagers’ exploitation. Instead, he uses a quick montage to convey the passage of time and their suffering, suggesting that the audience already understands the harsh realities they face.
As the film progresses, it raises questions about the direction the story is heading. While it captures the essence of community and resilience, it also leaves viewers pondering the fate of its characters. Overall, “Thangalaan” is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film that showcases Ranjith’s unique storytelling style.
