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01 Feb 2019
02:11:00
Rajiv Menon gives a fitting comeback with GV Prakash film
Peter Johnson (GV Prakash), a percussionist is the son of Johnson who makes Mridangam and Tabla. One day, his fascinated by Mridangam and wants to learn it from the best on the business Vembu Iyer (Nedumudi Venu).
But, he refuses to teach him because of his background and finally learns about his talent and coaches him. One day, Peter gets humiliated and jeopardises his relationship with his guru. His life takes a U-turn from then on.
Will Peter redeem himself and prove his innocence? Will he succeed in proving himself as a Mridangam Vidwan? These questions are answered in the second half in the most intriguing manner.
With every film, GV Prakash has been proving that he’s here to stay and has been improving and honing his skills. He fits the role of Peter Johnson like a glove.
Nedumudi Venu as a Mridangam legend is a revelation. He displays a sense of superiority but is also progressive enough to teach Mridangam to a Dalit guy.
It is great to see Vineeth Srinivasan after a long time in Kollywood. His role as Mani, who actively practices casteism and discrimination has delivered a neat performance. His expressions are so good that we tend to hate his character.
Aparna Balamurali and Dhivyadharshini have done their parts neatly. Their roles are limited but they have managed to make an impact.
Cinematographer Rajiv Menon has his own template and it doesn’t follow the typical commercial cinema template. Sarvam Thaala Mayam is also similar and it takes its own time to get into the story. But, Rajiv Menon’s screenplay in the first is intriguing and keeps you hooked.
For the uninitiated, Carnatic music is generally considered as music for the elitist, especially Brahmins. The director’s idea to convey that music does not know borders has been conveyed through the dialogues.
Rajiv Menon has handled several important topics in the most sensible way. Casteism, social discrimination, inclusivity, and plagiarism have been dealt well in the film.
Nedumudi Venu and GV Prakash’s camaraderie in the first half makes the film light and brings the much-needed comedy factor.
In the recent past, AR Rahman’s form has been questionable. With Sarvam Thaala Mayam, he has hit it night with brilliant background score.
As much as we adore the first half, the second half wanders here and there and it loses the momentum. The second half’s pace is a problem and it can test the patience of the audience.
The romantic track between GV Prakash and Aparna Balamurali looked quite unwanted. It didn’t quite add depth to the story.
Those who do not know anything about the Carnatic Music world should watch Sarvam Thaala Mayam to know what actually goes on in there other than just music. Sarvam Thaala Mayam has addresses several issues in a brilliant manner.