Autobiography of a Princess

Autobiography of a Princess is an intriguing historical drama directed by acclaimed filmmaker James Ivory, released in 1975. The film features acclaimed actors such as James Mason, Madhur Jaffrey, and Keith Varnier in leading roles, revealing a captivating narrative that interweaves themes of identity, displacement, nostalgia, and the passing of an era. The setting for the bulk of the film largely takes place within the confines of a London flat, thus creating an intriguing intimate atmosphere.

The story revolves around the lives of two central characters: the Maharani, played by Madhur Jaffrey, and her former 'tutor' Cyril Sahib, enacted by James Mason. It is important to note that the movie is not a straight-up linear traditional biography, but it beautifully unfolds as a dynamic conversation between these two personalities filled with reminiscence of their shared past in the early 20th century Indian royal court-life.

Madhur Jaffrey delivers a powerful portrayal of the Maharani who, despite living in exile in London, is far from ready to let go of her royal past. Her character is regal, nostalgic, and in constant battle with her present circumstances. Jaffrey masterfully portrays this character's internal struggles and yearning for a lost era, defining the Maharani with strength, resilience, and a certain tragic heroism.

Against her, James Mason presents Cyril Sahib with a subtle, underplayed finesse that allows his character to easily oscillate between a servant, a teacher, and a friend of the princess. It's his character who offers us the keen perspective on the final days of the Indian royals before the era of independence, providing a moving differentiation between the romantic idealization of the past and the harsh realities of political changes.

The film explores their complex relationship and their interpretation of history through mesmerizing flashbacks and gripping dialogues. Director Ivory uses past and present devices in the narrative that play in contrast, shifting between the nostalgia of old India represented through old films and photos, and the reality of the exile.

Keith Varnier enters the narrative as the Maharani's secretary, a mysterious figure who seems to tiptoe between his employer's grandeur and the business-end of managing the princess's estate. His depiction adds an additional dimension to the narrative, weaving a suspenseful undercurrent throughout the film.

Adding to the brilliance of the script and performances, a significant part of the movie's appeal is the sublime cinematography. With visuals playing a crucial part in the narrative, the film emphasizes on the lavish charm of the Indian royalty and contrasts it with the austerity of London through images and the mise-en-scène. There is a real sense of these two worlds colliding, making the audience understand the cultural contrasts and displacement the characters feel.

The lively background score, rich in Indian traditional music, helps accentuate the ambiance while resonating with the Maharani's inner turmoil and nostalgia, and at the same time, reflecting the vibrant culture of the erstwhile royal era.

The genius of Autobiography of a Princess lies not only in its captivating performances and direction but also in its ability to give voice to the aftermath of the political transition in post-colonial India, reflecting on the nostalgia of a lost era, the intimacy of personal narratives, and the complex history of colonizer and colonized. Ivory, with his nuanced and sensitive filmmaking, creates a poignant drama about memory, exile, and the passage of time, contributing a fine masterpiece to the realm of cinema.

The film might be seen as a commentary on the transition of power, the disillusionment of royalty, and the complex weave of personal and social history. It's a thought-provoking cinematic piece that invites introspection on the themes of imperialism, post-colonial identity, and the perpetual human struggle with change and adaptation.

In a nutshell, Autobiography of a Princess is not just a movie about the past; it is a beautifully crafted exploration of memory, identity, and history that resonates far beyond the closing credits. It offers a unique cinematic experience that ventures beyond a simple film viewing, providing an insightful and thought-provoking narrative that keeps the viewer entranced till the end.