On rare occasions there comes along a story that inspires you. ’’Ramana’’ is one such story. This film stands out purely because of its message. Indian films tend to exaggerate the truth beyond the scope of plausibility. But in this film the exaggeration has been tuned to a fine art and forms part of the symbolism that it tries to highlight. Several events depicted in this film are not entirely factual and are presented to to draw attention to the core issues being addressed in this film.
For example the story presents the stark irony in our legal and judicial system where the corrupt are protected by law. Although highly exaggerated, this irony has been tastefully presented.
The portrayal of professionals as butchers and crooks may offend some people but it has been deliberately executed in order to show an extreme case scenario.
Be it Hollywood, Bollywood or Kollywood. Computers will be the most inaccurately depicted piece of equipment in any movie. Ramana is shown searching through a list of names using Microsoft Media Player. As it is Media player has been blown up to include so many things we rarely use. Hope Microsoft doesn’t see this and add a Database to the already bloated software. You will also hear the ever present beep sounds when computers are shown in Indian cinema.
Some regular formula materials are also there: two songs and some sentimental nonsense with a few orphaned kids etc. But its a necessary evil in order to make a success of any Indian film. We visit so many good web sites that have annoying banner ads. This does not stop us from visiting those sites. Similarly Indian cinema has to sell and make money. They are there for a good business reason. Ignore them.
Technically there is nothing outstanding in this film. It carries with it all the usual faults seen in an Indian movie. Bad angles, bumpy editing, poorly planned shots, senseless lighting, But all those faults can be overlooked when you come to the end of this film.
This film has managed to demarcate between fiction and fact, yet it conveys the problem of corruption in the beaurocracy somewhat effectively.
If you havn’t seen this film please see it. After you have seen this film you would dearly wish for a living Ramana.