In a remarkable achievement for Tamil cinema, Rajinikanth’s 2018 film Kaala, directed by Pa Ranjith has been honored by the British Film Institute’s (BFI) Sight and Sound magazine. The socio-political drama has been listed among the 25 Films of the Century, placing it alongside esteemed global cinematic works such as Artificial Intelligence, Old Boy, and Divine Intervention.
A Significant Recognition
This prestigious recognition by BFI highlights the impact of Kaala on both a national and international level. Released in 2018, Kaala explores themes of social justice, power dynamics, and urban politics. Rajinikanth portrays the titular character, a leader of the oppressed living in Mumbai’s Dharavi slums. The film’s compelling narrative and Rajinikanth’s powerful performance resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning it commercial success and critical acclaim.
Kaala joins a diverse collection of films recognized for their cultural significance from 2000 to 2024. The list, part of Sight and Sound’s Summer 2024 issue, was curated by 25 critics, each nominating a film that embodies the cinematic achievements of the 21st century. These films, including A History of Violence (2005) and Bridesmaids (2011), are considered candidates for inclusion in a time capsule for future cinephiles to appreciate.
Impact of Kaala
The film’s inclusion in this prestigious list underscores its importance in global cinema. Kaala delves into the rebellion led by its titular hero against a corrupt politician aiming to seize the land of the slum dwellers. The movie’s narrative, which foregrounds Ambedkarite politics and social justice, has been praised for its ideological depth and powerful storytelling.
Cast and Crew
Kaala boasts a stellar cast including Huma Qureshi, Eshwari Rao, Nana Patekar, Samuthirakani, Anjali Patil, and Manikandan. The film was produced by Dhanush’s Wunderbar Productions and distributed by Lyca Productions, with music by Santhosh Narayanan.
A Landmark for Indian Cinema
This honor marks a notable achievement for Indian cinema, particularly for Tamil films, bringing international attention to regional cinema. The recognition of Kaala among such an elite group of films highlights its cultural and cinematic significance, further solidifying its place in the annals of global film history.
In the words of the BFI post,
“From our vantage point in 2024, we sit one quarter of the way through the 21st century. To acknowledge this milestone, Sight and Sound have enlisted the help of 25 critics, asking each to nominate a film that is significant within our cinematic era – the kind of film that could be put into a time capsule for the cinephiles of the 22nd century and beyond to marvel at, a movie that is both representative of and a high watermark of the years 2000 to 2024.”
With Kaala’s inclusion in this esteemed list, Tamil cinema continues to break boundaries and achieve new heights on the global stage.
Sources: South First , The Indian Express
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