The ceaseless journey of unidentified bodies through the world’s waterways is a narrative rarely told, yet steeped in the depths of poignant truths and unfulfilled longings. Such is the canvas to which filmmaker Sanjeev Sivan applies his artistry in “Ozhuki Ozhuki Ozhuki” (Quiet Flows the Dead). This cinematic creation entraps audiences in the world of a young, twelve-year-old boat boy known as Paakaran. His life takes an unexpected turn when, upon discovering a corpse carried ashore by the river he fishes in, his noble attempt to provide a dignified send-off entangles him in a web of murder and mystery. The subsequent unraveling of events forms the crux of this 90-minute narrative.
Opening in theaters on February 2, the film is an adaptation, born from the poetic and lyrical realms of the late Beeyar Prasad, also known as B Rajendraprasad. His original short story has been carefully crafted into a screenplay by Sanjeev, who has chiseled and shaped the material, imbuing it with a cinematic pulse.
This film marks a particularly personal milestone for Sanjeev as his son, 14-year-old Sidhanshu Sanjeev Sivan, makes his acting debut. Having attended a series of acting workshops, Sidhanshu did not merely inherit the role but earned it through dedicated preparation. The young actor, a Class IX student at Loyola School in Thiruvananthapuram, is set to prove his mettle in this demanding and emotionally resonant part.
Sanjeev, an alum of New York University’s filmmaking program, first garnered attention with his debut feature, “Aparichitan,” starring the renowned Mammootty, in 2004. Diverging from the beaten path of mainstream commercial cinema, he has sculpted his niche, producing a spectrum of acclaimed short films and documentaries. His works have been showcased on channels like National Geographic and Discovery, earning commendations such as the Best Environmental Film for “Underground Inferno” at the International Film Festival of India Goa 2010 and the Ecofilms Rodos International Films and Visual Arts Festival in Greece. “Abhayam” won the Best Children’s Film at the International Children’s Film Festival of India, and his film “Venalodungathe” clinched the Ammonite Award at the 2014 Hidden Gems Film Festival in Calgary, Canada.
The technical expertise backing the film is equally impressive, featuring the talents of Oscar winner Resul Pokkutty and editor Sreekar Prasad. Tuomas Kantilinen provides the musical backdrop while the visual narrative is brought to life by cinematographer Manoj Pillai. A strong supporting cast with the likes of Soubin Shahir, Baiju, and Narain enriches the film further, promising a tapestry of performances that are bound to resonate with audiences.
“Ozhuki Ozhuki Ozhuki” embodies more than just a story; it is a reflection on the conditions of societal invisibility and the unspoken grief of those left bereft, awaiting the return of their loved ones. Through the eyes of a child caught amidst the chaos of adult conflicts, the film propels viewers on a journey that transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, challenging viewers to confront the vicissitudes of life and death, justice and truth. As viewers anticipate the opening of this heartfelt narrative of life’s quieter tragedies, the ripple effect of its underlying messages is poised to course through the annals of film history.
