Before The Rains
July 10, 2008 at 12:45 p.m.
Photo Courtesy of Excalibur Pictures
A beautiful exotic woman is employed in the home of a rich, white, British land developer in India circa 1937. You may think you know where this is going, but don’t start yawning just yet. The love story that evolves between Henry and Sajani turns out to be anything but typical, and quite literally ends up involving the entire village. Before The Rains manages to encompass adultery, intrigue, and British Imperialism in a way that may actually manage to keep more than just women interested.
Set in India on the heels of its revolution from the British, the movie does a wonderful job of juxtaposing the exuberant colors and lifestyle of the natives against the stuffy British with their designer clothes and chauffeured cars. The critique of the times blends well with the undeniably tragic love story and the social consequences that inevitably ensue when two young boys witness an act of passion they never should have.
This is one of those movies that would be good to see after a break up, if you’re feeling lonely, or just have an overly general hatred of men. Henry, played by Linus Roache, to say the least, doesn’t do much to help the greater male cause.
The cinematography and camera angles employed make the film aesthetically appealing to watch. Director Santosh Sivan managed to capture many significant moments in unique ways with creative camera techniques and tight headshots. Beautiful shot-on-location scenes also add increased joy to this flick. — Julie Terry
VVVV – Pay Full Price
Twitter
Facebook
Comments on this post