preethamramphotography

Pather panchali was Ray’s first movie but his economy of dialogue. Pather panchali adopted from a classic novel by the Bengali writer Bibhutibhusan Bandyopadhyay. It begins in a rural Bengali village where a priest and his wife struggle to raise their daughter and young son Apu. The family is never very far away from starving but still, they managed to appreciate life. Their wishes are very simple and true to the situation. Satyajit Ray’s pather panchali considered of the best debut films ever. It is the first part of Apu’s Trilogy which is also considered one of the greatest film trilogies. The film is a true example of presenting humanity. It’s beautifully protraited rural life and the perils and pitfalls of poverty. Ray shows the world through the innocent eyes of his protagonist Apu. The family edges closer to financial ruin but Apu’s eyes are full of dreams. The characterization in the screenplay reduces the pace of the film quite a bit but it is a technique to engages the audience. For me, the most moving character was the ancient aunt who is waiting to die but wishing to live every day fully. From my point of view, this film is so simple yet so complex in emotions. It’s competently made through realism, poetic and beautiful in its simplicity. It is eternal in nature and not really confined to a particular family time or place it brings out the very real and everyday story of millions in similar surroundings in Bengali society.