Reviewed by A Sharadhaa, Indian Express.
Before delving into Saramsha, it’s essential to introduce the director Surya Vasishta. With a diverse background including projects like Tamassu, Lucia, U-Turn, Badmaash, Gantumoote, Shivaji Surathkal, and the latest Swati Muttina Male Haniye, Surya has contributed in various capacities such as an assistant director, actor, and more. Drawing from experiences in corporate and short film domains,as well as managing international talent on talk shows across numerous countries, his involvement in VFX adds another layer to his versatile skill set. Making his directorial debut with Saramsha, Surya’s work is crafted not for mass consumption but for the intellectual class who relish narratives similar to savoring a fine juice, sip by sip, while fully immersing themselves in the moment.
At the helm of this tale is Surya Vasishta, the writer and director, who has also played a role plunging himself into the imaginative world of storytelling through limited characters. Tejas Pandith (Deepak Subramanya) a dutiful son, has forsaken his writing passion due to his parents’ disapproval, whereas Abhay (Surya Vasishta), burdened with paternal insecurities, constantly seeks validation. Their paths unexpectedly cross one day. Can they aid each other in resolving their struggles, or are they merely figments of imagination? Could one be scripting the other’s tale? Before venturing ahead, we are made to ponder whether the path leads to desired destinations or life’s whims. But is choice even a factor?
Saramsha resembles a novel, brimming with metaphors and cultural nods, amidst a whirlwind of emotions. The absurdity of parallel universes colliding adds a whimsical twist to the tale, challenging the conventional norms of storytelling. This transition from literary imagination to visual portrayal presents its own set of hurdles, evident through its narrative.
Surya Vasishta impresses with his skill in conveying the essence of magical realism. He adeptly maneuvers between two parallel worlds, blending reality with fantasy, adding depth to the screen, offering a fresh and intriguing experience. Though the story mirrors a simple tale of our own selves and society, which helps to discover our living choices, and we are forced to destiny. This game between imagination and reality, which shifts between Kannada and English conversations, might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
It highlights the complexity of Tejas’s identity and the internal struggle he faces between familial expectations and his own innate passions. Despite being told he’s adopted and being discouraged from pursuing writing by his mother, who is a writer herself, Tejas finds himself drawn to the art form. This conflict between conforming to his father’s profession as a Chartered Accountant and following his true instinct for writing certainly invites viewers to contemplate the intricacies of self-discovery and personal fulfillment.
Another highlighting fact is the sub-plot that unfolds between the publisher Raksha (Shweta Gupta) who expresses her desire to be perceived as a Kannadiga despite her imperfect fluency in the language. This struggle with cultural identity resonates deeply with Tejas, a Bengaluru native torn between Kannada heritage and English comfort, mirroring the internal conflict.
While the film prioritises technical aspects, pushing to lose its emotional grip at times, it swiftly regains momentum, ensuring the audience remains engaged. Surya’s dual role as both lead actor and director comes in handy here. Notably, the performances by Sruthi Hariharan, who plays the role of Maya, Deepak Subramanya, Shweta Gupta, and Surya Vaishta himself and others enhance the overall impact. It is Aparajith Sris’ musical score that adds a haunting atmosphere to the narrative. Although experimental, such films are crucial in the current cinematic landscape and merit encouragement. Does the film leave an impression reminiscent of the satisfaction derived from a captivating book, a compelling play, or a heartfelt conversation with a loved one? I am not really sure. But Saramsha, irrespective, of how you want to look at it, invites viewers to ponder the complexities of life and the paths we choose to follow.
The above article recently appeared on the Cinema Express here.