Malgudi Days

Malgudi Days (2020) is a captivating Indian Kannada language film directed by the Kishore Moodbidri. The film stars fresh-faced Preetham Aithal and has the talented Afna Aravind playing the lead female role. Seasoned actor Gopinath Bhat also graces the silver screen, lending his experience and depth to the film's overall performance.

The storyline of Malgudi Days is inspired by the classic Indian literature "Malgudi Days" written by none other than R. K. Narayan. However, it should be noted that the film doesn't strictly follow the book's stories. It borrows from the spirit and setting of the original work, weaving its own unique narrative to provide a fascinating viewing experience.

Set in the 1980s in a sleepy town of Malgudi, the film primarily revolves around three primary characters - a young boy named Vaidya, his best friend Nandu, and his elder sister Suhasini. The movie is about these three characters' journey and a series of events that unfold affecting the entire village. The narrative takes one through the experiences of a child's innocence, adult's greed, and love that transcends age.

Preetham Aithal plays Vaidya, the quintessential kid next door. Aithal's charisma and charm bring to life a lively and believable kid character. The innocence and simplicity of Vaidya's character genuinely touches the audience's hearts. With his performance, Preetham Aithal successfully captures the essence of what it might be like for a typical kid growing up in an idyllic Indian village.

Afna Aravind, on the other hand, plays the role of Suhasini, an older sister who is protective and caring towards her younger brother, Vaidya. Her portrayal of a sister who is youthful yet mature for her age is incredibly genuine. Afna's acting finesse gives depth to Suhasini's character and helps to build a strong connection with the audience.

Gopinath Bhat brings a compelling dynamic to Malgudi Days by portraying a character that adds gravity to the plot. His acting credentials are strong, making him the perfect choice for the role that balances the relatively fresh cast's energy.

The Malgudi Days movie transports viewers to a simpler time. Director Kishore Moodbidri beautifully recreates the '80s ambience in every frame. The world is full of innocent childhood trivia, simple life philosophies and a proliferation of genuine human emotions. From a directorial standpoint, Moodbidri does a commendable job by making each scene look realistic and engaging.

The filmmaker brilliantly captures the village's ethos, minimalism, simplicity and unpretentious lifestyle through vibrant imagery. The cinematography does not disappoint and matches the simplicity of the story. Every frame is beautifully shot, capturing the essences of rustic India, from lush green paddy fields to the simplicity of the homes and the attire of its inhabitants.

The film's soundscape beautifully enhances the story being told. The background score is fitting to its setting and mood. The songs in the movie are interspersed at perfect intervals, lending a feeling of nostalgia. Even the sound effects, such as birds chirping, the rustling of leaves, children's laughter, echo in the background without interrupting the narrative's flow.

Malgudi Days (2020) is an earnest cinematic attempt to transport viewers back to their childhood days. It embodies a nostalgic journey, paying homage to the quainter times of rural life. The movie ticks all the boxes for becoming a crowd-pleaser: beautiful chemistry among the cast, exciting and engrossing storyline, great portrayals, and masterful direction.

Though the movie draws inspiration from classic literature, it threads its storyline effectively. It becomes a tribute not just to R.K. Narayan and his works, but also to the bygone era. Malgudi Days succeeds in breathing new life into the classic world of Malgudi, immersing the viewers into an array of emotions throughout the film. The magic of Malgudi Days lies not just in its story, but also in its realistic portrayal of the characters that reflect the simplicity and Achal authenticity of life.

Despite its local roots, Malgudi Days has a universal appeal, making it a worthwhile watch for a wider audience. The movie is simple, yet poignant. It has a timeless charm that makes it perfect for viewers of all ages and background, reminding them of the beauty of simplicity and the value of human connection.