Pather Panchali

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Velarudh Infotech P "Pather Panchali," the book by Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay, changed my life and my perspective on Bengali village life. Being born and brought up in a Bengali village, I can relate to everything. I had not seen this movie until I was in college (Med school). After that, I have watched this movie many times. Each and every scene is epic. The music by Ravi Shankar adds a profound depth to the film, making it even more immersive. Satyajit Ray's direction is truly masterful; he is indeed an incredible filmmaker. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 08/07/24 Full Review John W The rare perfect movie, even if is obviously made on a shoestring. Some of the most beautiful and touching sequences in any film, with every character unforgettable. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 04/01/24 Full Review Dani G A realistic and moving portrait of rural life in India. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 08/17/23 Full Review Audience Member Satyajit Ray's directorial debut depicts harshening traditions of ancestral livelihood factored amid poverty whilst providing slice of life via mesmerizing cultural transportation with beautiful cinematography backed up by unconventionally associated music being strictly domestic, filled by raw performances to humanely characterized the results. One of those strong debuts in the storytelling approach expressed by solid merits under cultural significance, but it unknowingly disconnects between the pacing and unflinching harshness with decreasing hopeful sense. However, it deserves to be given a fair rating over its productive merits and efforts emotionally connected to their home cultural like a cinematic representation. (B+) Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 02/17/23 Full Review yannis a A wonderful film, very emotional, with a fantastic cinematography that takes us back almost by a century to witness life in India. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 03/31/23 Full Review andres s Idk what it is, but there's something magical about India and all its rich culture. Anytime I start watching an Indian movie where the opening credits has sitar music, I always get excited. The restoration that Criterion did looks incredible. Even though shot in black & white, it still looks gorgeous. I see that Satyajit loves his panning and tracking shots. And rightfully so, I can tell he has the patience, discipline and attention to detail to pull them off beautifully. The locations that Satyajit was able to find are so beautiful. They're rich with organic textures, and the way he uses lighting accentuates whatever's on screen. Aww, poor little kitty. She didn't have to throw it like that lol. I know those were different times in a different country, but that was a bit much. It's a little kitten after all. Wow, is that school? School seems kinda weird. It seems like the teacher is the same person who sells spices and oils to the locals. Old auntie is quite the character. She could definitely be inspiration for a character out of a Disney movie. Wow, Auntie legitimately looked dead when her time came. That actress that played Auntie did a terrific job. Wow, Indian women have beautiful hair! Long black and wavy. Those shots of the pond with all the little insects dancing on the surface of the water were beautiful. Satyajit really has an eye for cinematography and composition. Holy crap, I can't believe how that storm destroyed the entire outside of their home; it's wrecked. That's pretty dark, I wasn't expecting Apu's sister to pass away. That was very unexpected and sad, especially seeing the parents reaction to her passing away. I guess Apu had no choice but to grow up quickly after that. I can also understand the death of Apu's sister. She was kind of a kleptomaniac always stealing something whether from the neighbors or shops. I think stealing the little girls beads was probably the last straw and was punished for that. And on top of that she lied about not stealing it. Apu unexpectedly found it hidden in a bowl and did one last favor for his recently deceased sister by throwing the necklace into the lake so no one would ever find out. Forever a secret shared between Apu and his sister. That was really sweet of Apu to do that. Satyajit tells the story in a very sweet and tender way that feels very cozy. But also acknowledges the hardships of living in an impoverished environment and the struggles that come with that. I love the way he tackles family matters in a very realistic way. The story of Apu's family and his beginnings is one that is simple but is told beautifully. Simply put, this is just a gorgeous and magical movie. It's a sort of meditative cinematic experience that never becomes boring nor loses its momentum. I absolutely love this movie! I can even say that I cherish it. I can't wait to watch the other two Apu films! Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 03/30/23 Full Review Read all reviews

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