Pather Panchali: Song of the Little Road(1955) REVIEW

Are you struggling to find an emotionally mesmerizing movie? Look no further than "Pather Panchali", a classic cinema that has held viewers spellbound for generations. The movie's themes of poverty, loss and resilience are universal, making it relatable to audiences from all walks of life. The performances of the cast are natural and authentic that bring the characters to life. However, in the movie "Pather Panchali", Harihar says, “Don’t be anxious. Whatever God ordains is for the best.". This line clearly depicts our expression when we are merely trying to remain calm in a chaotic situation. Overall, the movie's exquisite cinematography, outstanding performances and poignant storytelling make "Pather Panchali" a must-watch for those who want to experience the magic of cinema at its finest.


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Concept of Pather Panchali

The struggle of low-income family in rural Bengal and their search for a better life is the core premise of “Pather Panchali". The film explores concept of family, poverty and the persistence of human spirit. The characters in the film face many challenges including financial challenges, illness and grief yet they also find joy and beauty in their lives. A key concept of the movie that still resonates with viewers is how it depicts the human spirit's capacity to preserve and find hope despite hardship.    


Achievements of Pather Panchali

"Pather Panchali," an adaption of BibhutibhushanBandyopadhyay's novel, was directed by Satyajit Ray and released in 1955. The film is recognized as a masterpiece of Indian film and received praise for its cinematography and realistic depiction of rural life. The film won several international awards, including the Best Human Document award, National Film Award for best feature film, BAFTA Award for best film, BODIL Award for best American Film. With its success, Ray became a well-known director and contributed to the globalization of Indian cinema.

RATING

IMDb: *8.3/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 98%

 

The Cast of Pather Panchali

Here are some of the main cast members:

1. Subir Banerjee as Apu

2. Kanu Banerjee as Sarbajaya

3. Karuna Banerjee as Indir Thakrun

4. Uma Dasgupta as Durga

5. Chunibala Devi as the neighbor

6.Runki Banerjee as the neighbor's daughter 


Plot of Pather Panchali

The movie unfolds with the story of a young boy named Apu and his family living in a rural village in Bengal. The plot of "Pather Panchali" can be categorized into three parts: the first part introduces us to the family of Apu, consisting of his parents, Sarbajaya and Harihar, his elder sister, Durga, and his aged aunt, Indir Thakrun. In the second part, we see the family's hopes and dreams as Harihar travels to the city to seek work and a better life. In the third part, tragedy strikes when Durga falls ill and dies. The family decides to leave the village and start afresh in another town, and Apu turns back and sees the village for the last time. The film ends with Apu running towards the horizon, symbolizing the hope for a better future.

 

Pather Panchali: Story of an unfulfilled promise

We'll go see the train when I'm better, all right? We'll get there early and have a good look. You want to?", Durga says to Apu when she was in bed with a fever. She promised him that when she will recover from her illness, they will go back and cherish the thrilling moment which they had before the monsoon arrived. But the brutal destiny did not let that happen. The tragedy unleashes when the monsoon snatches her life and the promise turned into yearning dream instead of colorful reality.

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What I liked about Pather Panchali

One of my favorite parts of the movie is the use of natural scenery which vividly depict not only the struggle of the villagers but also the beauty of rural landscape. The cinematography is particularly impressive in the scene where Durga runs through a field of tall grass, exuding a sense of freedom which make me feel to wonder about the joy of running in an open field that is elusive in our chaotic cities. The film's music, haunting melodies and evocative use of Indian classical music create a dreamlike atmosphere that creates an emotional impact. The film explores the complex relationship between parents and kids, as well as bonding of siblings.




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