After the end of the film, you are left in a state of disbelief, wondering how can a man who looks so innocent and simple, has two daughters, and has protected his own daughter from molestation in the past do something like this. The answer to that question, is the whole point of the film. There are certain kind of people, who we feel just cannot bring any kind of harm to us; we find it difficult to believe even when a hundred fingers are being pointed at them; but the truth is that in more than eighty percent of sexual assault cases, the victim is known to the perpetrator.
We are shown Saravanan as a very scary and threatening man, our mind automatically makes an assumption that perhaps he is a bad person. On the other hand, we come across, Brahmanandam, a very old man who walks slowly and smiles gently towards his daughter, and the assumption we make is that this man can do no harm to anyone, he just doesn't look frightening at all, and he is in all probability a good man. But the movie enlightens you with a truth that leaves you dumbfounded. Looks can be deceptive, the way people behave with you might not reveal their true self; how you behave under adverse circumstances, reveals your true character. An enraged Saravanan wanted to kill Gargi's father but as soon as his sight falls on Aksarah, his anger melts away into tears as he doesn't want to hurt the feelings of a little girl. On the other hand, Brahmanandam was also going through a tough time, work pressure was taking a toll on him and he had to arrange money for his daughter's wedding, on top of that he drank alcohol that day; but when he came across a girl in a vulnerable situation, instead of helping her, he allowed the devil inside him to overpower himself.
Despite the serious subject of this film, it makes for an extremely engaging watch, there is not a single dull moment in the film. At the interval point, you are not tired but raring to go into the second half because you are truly invested into the story and Gargi's battle to unravel the truth.
The movie has a very realistic feel to it, be it the houses, the lighting inside them, the way people dress up and the way they interact with each other. Sai Pallavi went in without make-up for this film, and the sarees that she wears are very typical of what a woman belonging to a middle class family would wear at home. The court scenes have always been an exaggerated reality in our movies, but not in his film, as it depicts the court room proceedings in a set-up that is as close as possible to reality.
Indrans, the man who ends up offering legal help to Gargi, has been brilliantly portrayed by Kaali Venkat. Indrans not only provides comic relief but also portrays with full conviction, a man who is trying to overcome his disability and apprehensions in his fight for justice. Another stunning act is the role of the transgender Judge played by Sudha S., her portrayal was that of a strict teacher who knows how to keep the students in check. The monologue of the Judge, in which she teaches the Public Prosecutor a much needed lesson will put a smile on your face, the confidence with which she delivered that dialogue tells a lot about the fantastic acting potential she possesses.
There's a thing about Sai Pallavi, she doesn't really portray a character, she becomes one. Whether she had to portray her fear or hesitation, anger or frustration, Sai Pallavi was pitch perfect in delivering every single emotion in the most grounded of ways. Sai Pallavi is an exceptionally talented actress and when you see this film, you will realize why. The way she dresses up, the way she talks with people, makes you feel that you have seen her somewhere, that's how real her enactment is. Gargi's breakdown sequence in front of her mother towards the end is a result of pent up emotions, her frustrations; the actress in her really makes you believe that she actually went through a lot. Sai Pallavi has delivered a powerhouse of a performance as Gargi, one that is completely drenched in reality.
The background music by Govind Vasantha is another highlight of this film. The background score always managed to elevate the emotion of the situation being depicted in the scene. The cinematography as well as editing of the film deserves praise. The untidy walls, broken doors reflect the financial condition of Gargi's family. When you see her house, you believe that belongs to a lower middle class family, and for that one must give credit to the beautiful work done by the art director of the film.
Gargi is a movie that is not only a thriller, but also showcases the mental trauma that a family has to go through after a loved one gets imprisoned. The harassment that Gargi's family goes through is a very accurate depiction of how it actually happens. Gargi takes up a very sensitive subject and handles it very maturely. Any movie that takes up a social cause needs to be encouraged and supported; but Gargi is much more than that, it has a rock solid screenplay that is paced very well, outstanding performances and a beautiful message. It's a must watch for everyone.
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