Chimbu Devan’s latest venture, ‘Boat’, is a cinematic marvel that seamlessly integrates into his unique cinematic universe. Starring the ever-charismatic Yogi Babu and featuring a soundtrack by Ghibran, this film is a testament to the director’s visionary storytelling.
Set against the backdrop of 1943, during the tumultuous times of World War II, ‘Boat’ tells a gripping tale of survival and human resilience. The story begins with the threat of Japanese planes bombing Madras (now Chennai), prompting a group of ten strangers to seek refuge on a small boat in the Bay of Bengal.
Central Plot: Yogi Babu plays the role of Kumaran, a boatman who, along with his grandmother and other passengers, embarks on a perilous journey to escape the imminent danger. As they venture into the sea, the boat develops a hole and begins to sink slowly. To make matters worse, a large shark starts circling the boat, adding to the tension and urgency of their situation.
Themes and Inspirations: ‘Boat’ is not just a standalone film; it is a narrative that runs parallel to the iconic stories of Senapathy (Kamal Haasan) from Indian and Rajan (Sivaji Ganesan) from Andha Naal. This clever intertwining of characters and timelines enriches the viewing experience, offering fans a deeper dive into the Chimbu Devan Cinematic Universe. Additionally, the film draws inspiration from Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and The Sea and Sidney Lumet’s 12 Angry Men. This blend of literary and cinematic influences adds layers of depth and complexity to the story. The passengers, a diverse group with varying backgrounds and perspectives, must confront their fears and prejudices while making life-and-death decisions. This scenario mirrors the intense deliberations and character studies seen in 12 Angry Men.
Socio-Political Commentary: True to Chimbu Devan’s style, ‘Boat’ is rich with socio-political commentary. The dialogues are sharp and thought-provoking, addressing issues such as caste, religion, and the socio-economic disparities prevalent in society. The film uses the confined setting of the boat to explore these themes deeply, making it a microcosm of the larger world. Each line is crafted to provoke thought and reflection, making the audience ponder the realities of the world we live in. They address the pressing socio-economic issues of our times with a raw and unfiltered lens.
Performances: The ensemble cast, including M.S. Bhaskar, Chinni Jayanth, Chaams, Kullapulli Leela, Gouri G Kishan, and Sha Ra, delivers commendable performances. Yogi Babu shines in the role of Kumaran, a fisherman from the slums who saves people from various communities, states, and even a British national. While the performances might not be groundbreaking, they are certainly commendable. Yogi Babu delivers a performance that is both heartfelt and humorous, striking a perfect balance. The supporting cast also holds their own, contributing to the film’s overall impact.
Music: Ghibran, known for his ability to craft memorable tunes, seems to have delivered a set of songs in ‘Boat’ that don’t quite hit the mark. The melodies, while pleasant, lack the distinctive quality that often characterizes his best work. As a result, the songs feel somewhat forgettable and do not significantly enhance the film’s narrative or emotional impact. In stark contrast, Ghibran’s background score stands out as a highlight of the film. It seamlessly integrates with the on-screen action, enhancing the mood and tension without drawing undue attention to itself. This restraint is particularly effective in a film set against the dramatic backdrop of 1943, where the music plays a crucial role in conveying the period’s atmosphere and the characters’ emotional journeys.
One of the most commendable aspects of Ghibran’s background score is its ability to support the narrative without interrupting the flow of events on screen. Whether it’s the tense moments of survival or the introspective dialogues among the characters, the score provides a nuanced layer of emotion that enriches the viewing experience. This balance between being impactful yet unobtrusive is a testament to Ghibran’s skill as a composer. While the songs in ‘Boat’ may not have reached the high notes expected from Ghibran, his background score has undoubtedly added depth and dimension to the film. It serves as a reminder that music in cinema is not just about catchy tunes but also about creating an immersive auditory experience that complements the visual storytelling.
Technical Brilliance: A special word of applause goes to the technical department of ‘Boat’. The cinematography captures the vastness and peril of the sea with breathtaking visuals, making the audience feel the tension and beauty of the setting. The editing, though it could have been tighter, effectively maintains the narrative flow and keeps the audience engaged. The sound design and special effects are above average, adding to the immersive experience of the film.
Pacing: While the film runs for around two hours, there are moments where the pacing does drag slightly. However, the excitement of what happens next keeps the audience engaged throughout. Some viewers might feel that a tighter 90-minute runtime could have made the film even more impactful.
Conclusion: In conclusion, ‘Boat’ is a film that deserves appreciation for its bold storytelling, impactful dialogues, and commendable performances. The technical brilliance further elevates the film, making it a visual and auditory treat. Though ‘Boat’ may not be Chimbu Devan’s masterpiece or his best work, it is still a film worth watching. Whether you choose to watch it in theatres or on OTT platforms, ‘Boat’ offers a thought-provoking and engaging experience that challenges the status quo.
