Caught this gem of a movie last week on Saturday with my parents. One of the very few rare movies that we have watched in the theater together as a family. I must say the movie lived up to and beyond my expectations.
'96 - the title confused the heck out of all of us, even when the movie started with the song The Life of Ram; until he reached his old school in Thanjavur, then it became crystal clear that the title reflects the year of his passing his matriculation and boom - instant nostalgia. Those scenes where he reminiscences while visiting his school, its classrooms and the premises brought a tear to my eye and the feeling of loss - I wanted to watch the movie immediately with my school chaddi buddies...
The nostalgia continued with the school buddies then communicating via WhatsApp group named aptly '96. The reunion planned and the videos sent by those missing it sent a chord of pain in my heart.
We are introduced to Ram and Janu via their teen selves and the actors played that part brilliantly, the heart pumping reaction of Ram when Janu touches him for the first time after he realizes his feelings for her just about gave me goosebumps. Ohh innocent love at its best.
C. Prem Kumar who has directed this movie was a cameraman when he saw him first while wielding a camera as his story of amnesiac marriage was translated into the big screen as Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom. Clearly, he has grown since we first were acquainted with him.
'96 is a tragic romance of Ram & Janu without all the bitterness of a broken relationship, they still have that strong bond after 22 years of being split, life made them take different turns and they both landed on their feet, the movie spans just 1 night as Ram & Janu struggle with their feelings and what could have been.
To say anything more at this point would be to spoil the movie for those yet to see them and I wish everybody who reads this sees this movie at least once. It does not matter if you do not know the language, see it with subtitles, I guarantee you that you will not miss out on anything, but do watch it.
The lead pair of Vijay Sethupathi & Trisha Krishnan nails their roles. VS continues to prove why he is aptly named as "Makkal Selvan" by the people of Tamil Nadu. Trisha gives one of the most nuanced and powerful performances as Janu.
The music by Govind Vasantha compliments the movie - the music adds value to the narration on the screen and at the end, you are left feeling - if only...
Watch '96 for the sheer nostalgia factor or for lessons on how romance should be without going overboard. I leave you with this beautiful song to cherish...
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