Greater Elephant

Greater Elephant is a compelling 2012 Indian Marathi comedy-drama film directed by Srinivas Sunderrajan. It stars Hussain Dalal, Naveen Kaushik, and Rajiv Mishra in lead roles. The title, Greater Elephant, can seem a little puzzling at first, but as you delve into the storyline, the symbolic meaning behind the title becomes more apparent, adding a unique layer of depth to the film.

Not bound by the boundaries of traditional cinema, Greater Elephant is a metaphoric and abstract story that breaks conventions while maintaining the realism of life. The plot revolves around the journey of a mahout (elephant keeper) on a quest to find his lost elephant. While the physical absence of the elephant is an intriguing aspect, it is the symbolic representation that stands out magnificently. The elephant is metaphorically presented to exhibit personal, political, and social omissions; making it a symbol of the absence of something colossal and vital.

Hussain Dalal delivers an exceptional performance as Joseph, the mahout. His connection to his lost elephant transcends beyond just the bond of a man with his animal, representing a deeper attachment and an existential crisis. His journey across the city is full of interesting twists and turns, meeting various unique personalities. Each character he encounters along the way has their self interest at heart and reveals various human frailties, resulting in situations that are both comical and poignant.

Naveen Kaushik and Rajiv Mishra augment the narrative with their splendid acting. Rajiv, as the local goon and Naveen, as an ambitious politician, bring a balance of comedy and drama making the tale an engaging watch.

Shot primarily in Mumbai, the cinematography presents a different picture of the city, away from the hustle and bustle while still being amidst it. It unfolds like a dream, sometimes too real to believe. The cityscapes filled with bustling streets, ancient buildings, and distinct Indian elements form a backdrop against which the narrative plays out.

The dialogues in the film, entrenched in humor, play a significant role in the entertainment quotient. The director's words, profound yet amusing, offer an insightful critique of the society we live in. The script, while it is complex with its many layers, is compelling and relatively easy to follow. It draws attention to our modern society, its complexities, contradictions, and the unique theater that life stages every day.

The film is an exploration of cynicism, hope, despair, and human nature, where depravity and virtues coexist. Though comical, the narrative is thought-provoking and deeply philosophical at its core. The vibrant blend of comedy and drama evokes both laughter and empathetic tears, holding back no punches in its candid depiction of human life and its surroundings.

Greater Elephant, despite its unassuming title, is a remarkable, intelligent, and surreal cinematic piece that redefines storytelling. It deftly blends conventional ideas with abstract notions, weaving a memorable story of love, loss, longing, and life.

With an outstanding cast, a thoughtful and creative script, and excellent direction, Greater Elephant triumphs not just as a vibrant, engaging narrative, but also as a commentary on social truths. The movieis an intriguing cinematic experience that strikes a chord with the viewer, leaving them with thoughts to ponder long after the credits roll.

Yet underneath this charmingly bizarre tale of an elephant and his keeper is a profound exploration of our existence, our preoccupations, our goals, bringing to light the ironic paradoxes of the human condition. Greater Elephant is a film that is sure to appeal to audiences who appreciate cinema that is thought-provoking, meaningful, and distinctively different from the mainstream. Indeed, it’s an exploration of the broader, complex landscape of human nature that beautifully demonstrates the expansive potential of modern cinema.