Cargo

Cargo is a 2019 science fiction film from India, directed by Arati Kadav. The movie features a notable cast comprising of Vikrant Massey, Shweta Tripathi, and Nandu Madhav. Serving as an intriguing blend of science-fiction, drama, mythology, and philosophical insight, Cargo examines the abstract intricacies of life, death, and everything in between.

The film is set in a future world where a peace treaty has been established between Earth and Planet Yaksha, introducing us to extraterrestrial beings who are a mirror image of humans. Alluding to elements of mythical Indian lore, these beings from Planet Yaksha are responsible for processing the ‘cargo’ (souls) of deceased humans. This cosmic delivery service allows humans to be cleansed and recycled, an original and thought-provoking concept put forth by the film.

Vikrant Massey plays Prahastha, a demon from the aforementioned parallel world of Yakshas, who is the lone worker on spaceship Pushpak 634A. Vikrant Massey's character has a sorrowful serenity about him, an almost gloomy, solitary figure managing this unusual post-death transition for the deceased people. Prahastha is a reflection of the monotony and solitude that has consumed him from years of lonesome work, skilfully portrayed by Massey.

Shweta Tripathi appears as a recently deceased astronaut Yuvishka Shekhar, who, with her special healing powers, becomes Prahastha's assistant on the spaceship. Bright and talkative, her character injects an element of humor and much needed interpersonal dynamic onto the otherwise solitary spaceship. The rapport that develops between Prahastha and Yuvishka forms the mainstay of the storyline. From their interaction, the viewers get to engage with the philosophies of existence, death, and the freedom to change.

Nandu Madhav's character adds another essential layer to the narrative, deepening the philosophical and contemplative texture of the film.

A key aspect of Cargo is its unique take on the abstract themes of life, death, and reincarnation. The narrative is built across the interplay of these ideas, presenting them through a creative and previously unexplored lens. It may seem on the surface that Cargo is a tale of otherworldly encounters, but it is in essence, a human story - replete with the dilemmas of existence, the cyclical nature of life and beyond, and the solace in companionship.

The cinematography of Cargo demands particular attention. The overall ambiance created within the spaceship, and the fact that the bulk of the narrative unfolds here, adds an intriguing dimension. Night sky filled with stars, the spaceship's eerie neon-lit interior, and the overall designing of Pushpak 634A – everything contributes to the movie’s unique feel. The ambiance perfectly complements the deep existential narrative, creating a cohesive and compelling viewing experience.

While the film is science fiction, it also stands out because of its connection to Indian folklore. Extracts from Indian mythology, particularly the concept of life-death cycle (Samsara) and reincarnation contribute to its uniquely Indian sentiment. Hence, if you're looking for a different kind of Indian cinema, Cargo, with its unorthodox subject matter and interesting execution, makes it noteworthy.

Cargo isn't just a film; it's a journey that stimulates profound introspection about life and beyond. The movie proves that sci-fi is an excellent medium to present and simplify complex philosophical ideas. It is an intellectual, unconventional, and refreshing piece of cinema that leaves you with more questions than answers - reflecting on life, death, and the connections that bind us all.

However, the narrative does rely on the viewer's prior knowledge or understanding of Hindu mythologies and philosophies, which leaves some room for confusion if you're not well versed in them. Additionally, the pace of the movie could come off as slow to the average movie-goer as it veers away from the typical fast-paced, action-packed genre of sci-fi.

In conclusion, Cargo is an intriguing cinematic piece that thrives on its profound and contemplative narrative. It explores ideas about life and death via a lens that is far removed from the grim or melancholic presentation often associated with such themes. Instead, it invites the audience on a contemplative yet entertaining journey into worlds both familiar and alien, reshaping our understanding of existence and connection.