Before The Rains (UK, India, 2009)

The film set in Kerala, being his native and a reputed cinematographer himself takes advantage of the scenic views of the gods-own-country.

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Santosh Sivan

This film was recommended by Prasanna, a budding Tamil FilmMaker in his Film Workshop. Its a Merchant Ivory Production, as usual for the production house the story is set in British Raj, directed an ace cinematographer-turned-director Santhosh Sivan. The film is set in mostly in English and Malayalam, with little bit of Tamil, irrespective of multi-languages the film turns well, as Santhosh has well horned his directorial skills in depicting visually.

Morres, TK and Sajani

TK Nelan (Rahul) a futuristic and rational thinking person, works for Morres (Linus) a British Civil Officer, Sajani (Nanditha Das) works as a maid. Morres a married man indulges in affair with Sajani. Their love-life is disturbed by the entry of Morres’wife Jennifer. Meanwhile Sajani is experiencing humiliation with her husband Rajat, as the grapevine gossip of her affair circles in the village. One night after severe beating from Rajat, Sajani takes shelter with Morres, unable to keep her, he asks Nelan to take her somewhere as this situation will jeopardise his family life and the work ambition to build road. But Sajani returns, comes to know about the ill-love of Morres with her and kills herself. The both hide her body, Nelan is then thrown in between loyalty to his employer and his village laws. Which path he chooses?

Scenic View of Kerala

Incidentally the film draws inspiration from an Israeli Movie Red Roofs. In fact Sivan took the theme and fitted in the 1930 backdrop of British India.

Colorful costumes

The film set in Kerala, being his native and a reputed cinematographer himself takes advantage of the scenic views of the gods-own-country. Some of the visuals are stunning and one can never believe it’s in India. With the colourful settings and some bright costumes, its feast for the eyes. The film was released in India in August 2009. I haven’t seen it running in any cinema hall. The film lacks pace, but it is well-made.

Trailer of Before The Rains