A unique cinematic fusion of two distinctly different eras unfolds in Arun Chandu’s latest film, “Gaganachari.” This venture immerses its audience in a narrative that treads on the lines of nostalgia and fear, set against a backdrop that is simultaneously futuristic and reminiscent of past Malayalam cinema.
The setting is post-apocalyptic Kerala, a land ravaged by catastrophic floodwaters and looming under the dread of an alien invasion. Yet, within this atmosphere of desolation, the characters engage in conversations rooted deeply in the sensibilities and cultural references of Malayalam cinema from the 80s and 90s. It’s an audacious blending of times, balancing the desolate future with the cherished past.
The challenge of attaining this equilibrium is evident, as it could easily tip into disarray. However, the creators have managed to land closer to the mark of success, driven by the evocative power of pop culture nostalgia and their deft execution of visual effects and AI-generated imagery. Despite the film’s relatively modest budget, these technological elements build a convincing world that feels both innovative and familiar.
Much of the film’s setting is confined within the advanced yet claustrophobic bunker of Victor (K.B. Ganesh Kumar), a national hero celebrated for his heroic past in hunting aliens. The storyline follows a team of documentary filmmakers who descend into this bunker to capture Victor’s legacy on film. The narrative extends over the daily routines and chaotic lives of Victor and his associates Allen (Gokul Suresh) and Vaibhav (Aju Varghese). Their existence is further complicated by the unexpected arrival of an alien (Anarkali Marikar).
Interestingly, certain elements of the setting, such as the romantic subplot involving an alien, seem to echo the sensibilities of Krishnendu Kalesh’s “Hawk’s Muffin.” Despite these similarities, “Gaganachari” maintains a unique identity through its light-hearted approach and jovial mood. Humor is a constant presence, emanating not only from character interactions but also from playful names (an alien named Eliyamma) and amusing voiceovers (a virtual assistant mimicking a famous travel show host, or a young alien speaking like a seasoned veteran actor much to her human boyfriend’s chagrin).
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Outside the bunker, the world has drastically changed. Wars have erupted over fuel, resulting in the government’s ban on petrol vehicles and a forced shift to electric vehicles, closely monitored by surveillance. A feared right-wing sena roams the streets imposing strict moral codes, and synthetic ‘geef’ has replaced beef in the common diet. This dystopian backdrop renders the pop-culture humor even more captivating, juxtaposing a grim reality with moments of levity.
At its core, the film’s plot seems to go nowhere substantial, serving instead as a vehicle for the characters to indulge in nostalgic dialogues that echo Malayalam cinema’s past. This nostalgic journey is intertwined with a subtle, yet poignant undercurrent that addresses pressing concerns about climate change and the encroaching strength of oppressive power structures.
K.B. Ganesh Kumar embraces his role as Victor with zest, delivering a performance that is both pompous and endearing, reveling in his character’s past glories. Gokul Suresh, known for his lackluster performances in previous films, redeems himself by handling humor with surprising proficiency. The film’s visual atmosphere and auditory experience are significantly enhanced by the combined efforts of cinematographer Surjith S. Pai and music director Sankar Sharma.
“Through Gaganachari,” Arun Chandu emerges as a filmmaker unshackled by market pressures, daring enough to let his creative instincts soar. While not every whimsical leap lands perfectly, the successes are ample and rewarding. This film stands as a testament to creative risks taken and the joyous pay-offs when those risks succeed.
Currently playing in theaters, “Gaganachari” invites cinema-goers to step into a world where the past and future coalesce in a delightful, thought-provoking journey. Embrace the distinctive intermingling of nostalgic charm and futuristic unease that marks this unique entry in Malayalam cinema.
