'Kalavani' fame Sargunam directed Vaagai Sooda Vaa was a flamboyantly drawn ethnic painting on the big screen. The canvas on which the painting was drawn, that is the period and ethos in which the story takes place made the audience warp in time and transformed the movie watching experience, reaching new heights all together. 

Yes, right from the start of the movie, I was in awe with the narration. This is by far one of the most classy works to have hit the Indian cinema in recent times. 

I take a bow before Sargunam for the sheer audacity and determination to come up with such a movie at this point in time where meaningless commercial rehashes are ruling the roost.

The movie takes place in the year 1966 in a village (an oasis?!) in the vicinity of Pudukottai, where ignorant men, women and children work hard in a brick kiln to make ends meet. The rest of the story is all about how an erudite Vimal brings about a transformation in their lives. The audience were also given a peek into their lives and tribulation.

Every scene has been carefully researched and done. Be it the way in which the brick manufacturing was shown, the luxury of listening to a transistor, the usage of monetary terms like 'annas' and so on adds to the authenticity and strength of the script.

A poetic love between the lead pair of Vimal and Iniya was well etched out using the radio and immortal songs which were played in it.

Characterization and casting was perfect. The children, who were the anchor on which the movie traveled, were cast in a very unique and impressive way with each one having their own identity.

Vimal, as a helpless teacher among the ignorant breed has delivered a fantastic performance where he had to underplay for the most part of his role. He has a natural sense of humor and a great body language, which augurs well for his role.

Iniya, a surprise package. If Paruthiveeran has done any good to Priyamani, this role will do the same for Iniya without an iota of doubt. She has carried the role of a bubbly girl with grace. With multitude emotions, she adds charm to her role.

Bhagyaraj, as Vimal's father appears during the initial and final moments of the movie and adds the necessary spices to make the script delicious.

The other supporting cast including Kumaravel, 'Thambi' Ramaiyya, Ponvannan and others have helped the movie get its raw shape and authenticity and had contributed in their own capacity.

Music by debut music director Gibran was top class with 'Sara Saara Kaathu' and 'Porane' being the picks of the lot. The BGM was classy enough to bring in a feeling of nostalgia.

Om Praksh's cinematography captures the 1960's time line with elan and adds a classy feel to it. The picturization of songs were superb.

Editing could have been better to make the film a bit fast paced during the first half - one department which does not work in favor of the movie.

Will the movie ring in the cash registers? Does it have a mass appeal? Will it be a commercial success? These are debatable and difficult questions which will get answered in the days to come.

It might not be a commercially successful flick like 'Kalavani' but certainly has the potential to rake in some awards to its kitty.

Verdict: A must watch for parallel movie enthusiasts

Score: 3.5/5