‘Symbolism shines in Magalir Mattum’

CHENNAI: During the weekend, a discussion was held at the Chennai Press club about the relevance of the recently released Tamil film, Magalir Mattum. It was organised and held by the Women’s Journalist Organisation, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artists Association (TNPWAA), South Chennai, and the Aa Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA), South Chennai. Director Bramma, film editor CS Premkumar, music director Ghibran and assistant producer Christy Siluvappan, were also present.

The panel members opined on the relevance of Magalir Mattum today. They pointed out the challenges and difficulties women face in the society today. “The movie establishes that women should think about themselves while also taking care of the family,” said director Vijayapadma, who directed the 2011 drama film Narthagi.

Touching upon the music of the film, the director feels that the music perfectly complements the upbeat nature of the film. “Usually many women-based films have slow sad violin music backgrounds. And thankfully, you haven’t done that too!” she addressed Ghibran, also praising the cinematography. “The shot of three monkeys jumping onto a wall was symbolic of the adventurous spirit of the women taking off on a road trip!” she said, for which Bramma joked that he had hoped the Censor broad wouldn’t cut that shot out.

The subtle traces of symbolism in the movie were picked out and explained thoroughly by Saidhai Je, of TNPWAA. He praised the director for using the names ‘Shankar and Kousalya’ for a couple who were happily married, though against their families’ wishes. “What a great way to make a statement on the need to abolish honour-killing,” he said.

Anbarasan of TNPWAA, commented about the biggest change the movie had brought to his family.“My son depends on his mother for everything from ironing clothes to lacing his shoes, but now he decided not to trouble her. No bigger victory for a film than creating a change in  one’s heart,” he said.