Jalam

Jalam is an Indian Malayalam-language film directed by M. Padmakumar and written by S. Suresh Babu. The movie, produced by Freemasons Movie House and Carnival Motion Pictures, was released in 2016 and stars Aliya, Ponnamma Babu, and Prakash Bare. The title ‘Jalam’ translates to 'Water' in English, which metaphorically signifies life, adaptability, and survival in the movie's context. The drama unfolds in the rich landscapes of Kerala, visually appealing, from the scenic backwaters to the grandeur of urban construction sites.

Jalam captures the essence of institutional deprivation and the plight of marginalized individuals in the unrestrained quest for development. It is centered around the life of a single mother (played by Priyanka Nair), her little daughter (played by Esther Anil), and their struggle for survival. This underprivileged duo lives on a makeshift platform built on an urban drainage pipe, depicting the ironic and painful reality of the urban poverty class against the backdrop of glitzy high-rises and sophisticated urban landscapes. Jalam offers an unflinching depiction of the many who live on the fringes of our society, whose existence is often ignored or forgotten.

Aliya stands out with her heart-rending portrayal of young helpless mother, delivering a win-win heart-wrenching performance. Her day-to-day struggles to survive and take care of her paraplegic daughter, who spends days yearning to feel the warmth of sunlit sands and the cool sea waves, are soul-stirring. The child artist, Esther Anil, delivers a solid, sensitive performance as her wheelchair-bound daughter, personifying grace and resilience in the face of adversity.

Most of Jalam’s narrative unfolds in a single location - the home of the mother and daughter made on a drainage pipe. However, this restricted physical space does not limit the emotional range of the narrative. The film is backed by compelling performances of the cast and crew, and the intimate cinematography ensures audience proximity to the characters and their emotions. The screenplay is consistent, adding to the dynamic landscape of the movie, achieving a fine balance between aesthetics and the visual narrative storyline.

The character 'Advocate Mukundanunni' played by renowned actor Prakash Bare, showcases the harsh reality of societal attitudes towards poverty and homelessness. Ponnamma Babu, who plays a pivotal role in the film, reflects on the ethics of urban development and its impact on the marginalized, reinforcing the message of the film with her portrayal of a resolute, compassionate neighbor.

The music and background score composed by Ouseppachan render added depth to the movie. Jalam also boasts songs written by the National Award-winning lyricist, Prabha Varma, which are certain to capture your heart and encapsulate the film's essence in profound rhythm and melody. The music strikingly complements the varying shades of human emotions shown in the film, floating between melancholy and hope that resonates with the movie's tempo.

This film is a potent social commentary on the issues of urban poverty, displacement, and the relentless survival instinct. It deftly grapples with the prevailing biases, neglect, and indifference that the weaker sections of the society face. With a dose of hard-hitting reality and an undercurrent of silent resistance, the film navigates through its gripping narrative and gripping emotional undertones.

Jalam may be seen as a disturbing mirror of society, a somber rumination of the harsh realities of developmental politics and its inherent insensitivity towards the needy. However, the movie is also a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity amidst adversities, the resilience of the human spirit when confronted with existential challenges. It calls for empathy and a socio-moral revolution, reminding audiences of the need for compassion and understanding in a world increasingly divided by wealth and poverty.

In conclusion, Jalam is more than just a cinematic experience. It's an empathetic exploration into the life of marginalized individuals, delivered through potent storytelling and engaging performances. It's an intimate space where human resilience, struggle, and hope converge, offering a cinematic journey that leaves a long-lasting impact.