ROCKETRY : THE NAMBI EFFECT (2022)
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| Critic No. 287 |
Director: R Madhavan
Written by: R Madhavan
Produced by: Tricolour Films, Varghese Moolan Pictures, 27th Entertainment
Casts: R Madhavan, Simran, Ravi Raghavendra, Karthick Kumar, Jagan
Music: Sam C.S
Language: Tamil
Genre: Drama
SYNOPSIS:
Based on the life of Indian Space Research Organization scientist Nambi Narayanan, who was framed for being a spy and arrested in 1994, Rocketry shows journeys through the ups and downs of his life as he continues to fight for justice against the officials who falsely implicated him.
REVIEW:
Rocketry, which is about 6 years in making, is Madhavan’s dream project which he is also debuting as a director after a bumpy ride as an actor over the past two decades. Rocketry is the tale of Nambi Narayanan’s remarkable career as a scientist in the Indian Space Research Orgnaisation (ISRO) and how he was subsequently treated when a false case of espionage was framed on him. Madhavan should be commended for picking a subject that not many people might be aware of, and for a first time director, he has presented it daringly without adding unwanted ‘filmy’ elements.
Though Madhavan has carefully picked some significant moments from Nambi’s life, the first half is overloaded with facts, scientific jurgons with very little flavour, till it comes across as just mechanical scenes documenting Nambi's victories in the scientific world, reiterating how a genius he was. That push felt a little too much for me as the engagement level got a serious hit then. Therefore, though he hits a pinnacle in his career, the scene feels just ordinary without us emotionally feeling it. However, the direction of shots and actors were quite good, showcasing director strength of Madhavan.
However, the film picks up steadily and rather redeems itself in the disturbingly emotional second half. The episodes that come in it focuses the major conflict of the film and how Nambi gets affected together with his loving family. The major highlight of the film is no doubt the investigation scene. With a torturous treatment offered by the police, Madhavan's hands shiver, his fingers tremble, and his lips quiver. It perfectly encapsulates a battered man who is helplessly trying to prove his innocence yet holding on to his dignity. Karthik Kumar as a CBI official and Simran as Nambi's wife give a perfect performance while Suriya delivers a memorable cameo appearance as an interviewer. There are many scenes that involve intricate CGI sequences which are well done with much realization. Sam C.S music is just apt and flows well with the film’s tone.
Ultimately, the film is about choices and how Nambi reaps the effects of his choice on staying in India to help the nation. This make me ponder why no one has highlighted this story till now and why the nation started to only acknowledge Nambi (by giving him state awards, etc.) when the news of the film was out.
Madhavan opts for a more sentimental approach towards the end even though the story had all the potential to be an edgy drama. Despite the shortcomings, Madhavan flexes his mettle as a sharp writer with scenes like where Nambi and his wife Meena find themselves stranded on the streets amidst a downpour with no one willing to help them or when they have to put up with accusing stares at a wedding and later, the satisfying payoff of the couple being looked upon with gratitude at the same event.
The final scene where we see the real Nambi on scene, is all enough to move us in tears, respecting the man who took the blow for choosing the country over anything. And that’s where director Madhavan succeeds.
VERDICT:
Rocketry is a genuine biopic passionately directed and acted by Madhavan which is emotionally charged and engaging if we look past its dry, scientific indulgence.
CELLULOID METER- 3.25/5:
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