Misplaced Pages

Pranayam (2011 film): Difference between revisions

Article snapshot taken from Wikipedia with creative commons attribution-sharealike license. Give it a read and then ask your questions in the chat. We can research this topic together.
Browse history interactively← Previous editContent deleted Content addedVisualWikitext
Revision as of 21:40, 21 April 2021 editGreenC bot (talk | contribs)Bots2,553,168 edits Rescued 1 archive link. Wayback Medic 2.5← Previous edit Latest revision as of 22:10, 17 November 2024 edit undoShelfSkewed (talk | contribs)Autopatrolled, Extended confirmed users, Pending changes reviewers, Rollbackers292,090 edits Removed hatnote per WP:NAMB—the title of this article is not ambiguous 
(51 intermediate revisions by 30 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{about||the Indian breathing practice|Pranayama|the television series|Pranayam (TV series)}}
{{Use Indian English|date=November 2015}} {{Use Indian English|date=November 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2015}} {{Use dmy dates|date=November 2015}}
Line 7: Line 6:
| caption = Life is more beautiful than a dream | caption = Life is more beautiful than a dream
| director = ] | director = ]
| producer = P. K. Sajeev<br>Anne Sajeev | producer = P. K. Sajeev<br />Anne Sajeev
| writer = Blessy | writer = Blessy
| starring = ]<br />]<br />] | starring = ]<br />]<br />]
Line 14: Line 13:
| editing = Raja Muhammed | editing = Raja Muhammed
| studio = Fragrant Nature Film Creations | studio = Fragrant Nature Film Creations
| distributor = ] (Kerala)<br />Mohit Productions & Studio99 Films<br />(outside Kerala) | distributor = ] (Tamilnadu)<br />Mohit Productions & Studio99 Films<br />(outside Kerala)
| released = {{Film date|2011|8|31|df=y}} | released = {{Film date|2011|8|31|df=y}}
| runtime = 139 minutes | runtime = 139 minutes
Line 21: Line 20:
}} }}


'''''Pranayam''''' ({{Translation|Love}}) is a 2011 Indian ]-language ] film written and directed by ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/first-look-pranayam/20110614.htm|title=First Look: Anupam Kher and Jayaprada in Pranayam}}</ref> The film stars ], ], and ]. The plot revolves around the love bound between the characters of Mathews (Mohanlal), Grace (Jaya Prada) and Achutha Menon (Kher). The music for the film was composed by ]. The film opened to positive reviews from critics and was also a commercial success at the box office. It was reported that the movie is based on the 2000 Australian movie '']'' and few scenes inspired from the 2010 Chinese movie '']''.<ref>https://m.timesofindia.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/Row-over-Kerala-State-Films-Award/articleshow/15137396.cms</ref> '''''Pranayam''''' ({{Translation|Love}}) is a 2011 Indian ]-language ] film written and directed by ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/first-look-pranayam/20110614.htm|title=First Look: Anupam Kher and Jayaprada in Pranayam|access-date=17 June 2011|archive-date=17 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617063115/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/first-look-pranayam/20110614.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> The film stars ], ], and ]. The plot revolves around the love bond between the characters of Mathews (Mohanlal), Grace (Jaya Prada), and Achutha Menon (Kher). The music for the film was composed by ]. The film opened to positive reviews from critics and was also average at the box office.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/Row-over-Kerala-State-Films-Award/articleshow/15137396.cms | title=Row over Kerala State Films Award | newspaper=The Times of India | date=10 January 2017 | access-date=3 July 2020 | archive-date=8 July 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708114800/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/Row-over-Kerala-State-Films-Award/articleshow/15137396.cms | url-status=live }}</ref>


==Plot== ==Plot==
The film begins with Achutha Menon, a man in his late sixties arriving in the city to stay with his daughter-in-law and granddaughter after suffering a heart attack. He was a football player who had got selected in the State team but could never play for the team. He moulded his life and career to accommodate the romance in his life. The film begins with Achutha Menon, a man in his late sixties, arriving in the city to stay with his daughter-in-law and granddaughter after suffering a heart attack. He was a football player who had been selected to be on the State team but could never play for the team. He moulded his life and career to accommodate the romance in his life.


One day Menon sees his former wife Grace in the elevator and collapses. Grace, who is staying in the same building with her husband, daughter and son-in-law, arranges for him to be taken to the hospital and even pays the deposit for the emergency treatment. Slowly their relationship is revealed as she is very anxious about his condition. One day, Menon sees his former wife, Grace, in the elevator and collapses. Grace, who is staying in the same building with her husband, daughter, and son-in-law, arranges for him to be taken to the hospital and even pays the deposit for the emergency treatment. Slowly their relationship is revealed as she is very anxious about his condition.


Grace's husband Mathews is a retired philosophy professor who has his own philosophy of life. He is now bedridden and requires his wife's help to accomplish the most basic day-to-day tasks. Their physical intimacy is an indication that they may have led a fulfilling life as a couple before the tragedy struck. Grace's husband, Mathews, is a retired philosophy professor who has his own philosophy of life. He is now bedridden and requires his wife's help to accomplish the most basic day-to-day tasks. Their physical intimacy is an indication that they may have led a fulfilling life as a couple before the tragedy struck.


The children start acting up as the old couple revive their acquaintance. In the later half of the film, even Mathews joins the former couple with Achuthan helping Grace in manoeuvring her husband's wheelchair in rough terrains. The three take a trip to a beach resort together. The children start acting up as the old couple revives their acquaintance. In the later half of the film, even Mathews joins the former couple with Achuthan helping Grace maneuver her husband's wheelchair in rough terrains. The three take a trip to a beach resort together.


At the resort, Mathews has a stroke and is rushed to the hospital. At the same hospital, Grace has a heart attack and dies, while Mathews survives. The last scene is one where Mathew places flowers at her gravestone and Achutha Menon helps him and finally wheels him away off somewhere where one hopes the two friends have comfort and companionship for the rest of their years. At the resort, Mathews has a stroke and is rushed to the hospital. At the same hospital, Grace has a heart attack and dies, while Mathews survives. The last scene shows Mathew placing flowers at her gravestone, Achutha Menon helping him, and finally, wheeling him off somewhere as one hopes that two friends have comfort and companionship for the rest of their years.


==Cast== ==Cast==
* ] as Mathews * ] as Mathews, Grace's husband
* ] as Achutha Menon * ] as Achutha Menon, Grace's ex-husband
* ] as Grace ** ] as Young Achuthan
* ] as Grace, Mathews's wife and Achuthan's ex-wife
⚫ * ] as Suresh Menon
⚫ ** ] as Young Grace
⚫ * ] as Suresh Menon, Achuthan's and Grace's son
* Niyas as Saji * Niyas as Saji
* ] as Achutha Menon (junior)
⚫ * ] as Grace (junior)
* ] as Arun * ] as Arun
* Apoorva Bose as Megha<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/others/lessons-reel-life-719|title=Lessons from reel life|date=23 August 2011|accessdate=31 August 2011|author=Shruti Karthikeyan|publisher=Deccan Chronicle}}</ref> * Apoorva Bose as Megha<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/others/lessons-reel-life-719|title=Lessons from reel life|date=23 August 2011|access-date=31 August 2011|author=Shruti Karthikeyan|publisher=Deccan Chronicle|archive-date=31 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120131050254/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/others/lessons-reel-life-719|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* ] as Asha * ] as Asha, Mathews's and Grace's daughter
* ] as Aswathy * ] as Aswathy, Suresh's wife


==Production== ==Production==
] claims that has gone through almost 25 years of hibernation for ''Pranayam''. He says, "For so many years I have been carrying the subject in me as a writer, journeying with it as visuals and words. I have now transferred that to the characters. It's like letting go of something that was your own until now. And that is painful."<ref name="Blessy interview">{{cite news |url=http://www.yentha.com/news/view/4/13777|title=Interview Of The Week: Blessy’s ‘Pranayam’|publisher=Yentha|date=29 August 2011|accessdate=31 August 2011}}</ref> Blessy had discussed the storyline with writer-director ], during the making of his '']'', in which he was the associate director. Lohithadas had told Blessy about how he had envisaged Mathews. After '']'', Blessy had starting writing a story based on a few youngsters but didn't feel excited about it after a while as many similar stories were flooding theatres. Suddenly the story of ''Pranayam'' came back into his mind. About the scripting, Blessy says, "The interesting thing about this script is that even before I started writing it, what I had in my mind was its last frame. So I started developing the journey back from the last frame and completed it."<ref></ref> ] claims that he has gone through almost 25 years of hibernation for ''Pranayam''. He says, "For so many years I have been carrying the subject in me as a writer, journeying with it as visuals and words. I have now transferred that to the characters. It's like letting go of something that was your own until now. And that is painful."<ref name="Blessy interview">{{cite news|url=http://www.yentha.com/news/view/4/13777|title=Interview Of The Week: Blessy's 'Pranayam'|publisher=Yentha|date=29 August 2011|access-date=31 August 2011|archive-date=26 September 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926064213/http://www.yentha.com/news/view/4/13777|url-status=live}}</ref> Blessy had discussed the storyline with writer-director ], during the making of his '']'', in which he was the associate director. Lohithadas had told Blessy about how he had envisaged Mathews. After '']'', Blessy had started writing a story based on a few youngsters but didn't feel excited about it after a while as many similar stories were flooding theatres. Suddenly the story of ''Pranayam'' came back into his mind. About the scripting, Blessy says, "The interesting thing about this script is that even before I started writing it, what I had in my mind was its last frame. So I started developing the journey back from the last frame and completed it."<ref></ref>


P. K. Sajeev and Anne Sajeev are the producers under the banner of Fragrant Nature Film Creations. Aneesh Jacob is the executive producer. The first schedule of shooting started on 16 February 2011 at ] in ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kaumudiplus.com/news.php?nid=513a0fc4c27bd36b1330f0f7ead4b174&mcid=3&msid=|title=Pranayanam start from tomorrow}}</ref> ] joined the set from 23 February.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kaumudiplus.com/news.php?nid=295be282e8fc97c5ccedef9a7854dcf4&mcid=3&msid|title=Mohanlal joins in 'Pranayam'}}</ref> The second schedule started on June first week in ]. ''Pranayam'' was shot from locations including ], ], ], ] and ].<ref name="City Journal"/> Satheesh Kurup wielded camera for the film. "There is an invisible spark that flashes just seeing the look or a smile of a person and when the beauty within him is revealed to you. You don't need to see a bio-data or wade through his past work. You just connect with him," explains Blessy on his decision to hand over the camera to a novice like Satheesh Kurup.<ref name="Blessy interview"/> P. K. Sajeev and Anne Sajeev are the producers under the banner of Fragrant Nature Film Creations. Aneesh Jacob is the executive producer. The first schedule of shooting started on 16 February 2011 at ] in ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kaumudiplus.com/news.php?nid=513a0fc4c27bd36b1330f0f7ead4b174&mcid=3&msid=|title=Pranayanam start from tomorrow|access-date=17 June 2011|archive-date=23 February 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110223123424/http://www.kaumudiplus.com/news.php?nid=513a0fc4c27bd36b1330f0f7ead4b174&mcid=3&msid=|url-status=live}}</ref> ] joined the set on 23 February.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kaumudiplus.com/news.php?nid=295be282e8fc97c5ccedef9a7854dcf4&mcid=3&msid|title=Mohanlal joins in 'Pranayam'|access-date=17 June 2011|archive-date=15 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120315221707/http://www.kaumudiplus.com/news.php?nid=295be282e8fc97c5ccedef9a7854dcf4&mcid=3&msid|url-status=live}}</ref> The second schedule started on June first week in ]. ''Pranayam'' was shot on locations, including ], ], ], ], and ].<ref name="City Journal"/> Satheesh Kurup wielded the camera for the film. "There is an invisible spark that flashes just seeing the look or a smile of a person and when the beauty within him is revealed to you. You don't need to see a bio-data or wade through his past work. You just connect with him," explains Blessy on his decision to hand over the camera to a novice like Satheesh Kurup.<ref name="Blessy interview"/>


The film released on a credit as ]'s 300th. It is the third time Blessy and Mohanlal signing a bond together after '']'' and '']''. The film will have credit of reuniting Mohanlal and Jayaprada as a couple after '']''. Mohanlal and Anupam Kher are on the screens again after '']'' and '']''.<ref name="City Journal">{{cite news|url=http://www.cityjournal.in/Newspaper/20110831/metro/metro_7.html|title=Pranayam: the bitter-sweet wine for all seasons|publisher=City Journal|date=31 August 2011|accessdate=31 August 2011|author=Sreejith}}</ref> Asked about his experience and challenges that he faced while working in an unfamiliar language, Anupam Kher said "Acting in a different language film is like being thrown into a swimming pool without knowing how to swim. Blessy being a good trainer, acting in ''Pranayam'' didn't pose a challenge."<ref name="Blessy interview"/> The film was released on a credit as ]'s 300th. It is the third time Blessy and Mohanlal signed a bond together after '']'' and '']''. The film will have the credit for reuniting Mohanlal and Jayaprada as a couple after '']''. Mohanlal and Anupam Kher are on the screens again after '']'' and '']''.<ref name="City Journal">{{cite news|url=http://www.cityjournal.in/Newspaper/20110831/metro/metro_7.html|title=Pranayam: the bitter-sweet wine for all seasons|publisher=City Journal|date=31 August 2011|access-date=31 August 2011|author=Sreejith|archive-date=25 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120225060559/http://www.cityjournal.in/Newspaper/20110831/metro/metro_7.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Asked about his experience and challenges that he faced while working in an unfamiliar language, Anupam Kher said "Acting in a different language film is like being thrown into a swimming pool without knowing how to swim. Blessy being a good trainer, acting in ''Pranayam'' didn't pose a challenge."<ref name="Blessy interview"/>


''Pranayam'''s official website was launched by Anupam Kher on 29 August 2011 at a Meet the Press programme organised by the Trivandrum Press Club.<ref name="Blessy interview"/> ''Pranayam'''s official website was launched by Anupam Kher on 29 August 2011 at a Meet the Press program organised by the Trivandrum Press Club.<ref name="Blessy interview"/>


Some scenes of the song "Paatil Ee Paatil" was shot in the beach area of Kish Islands, Iran. Some scenes of the song "Paatil Ee Paatil" were shot in the beach area of Kish Islands, Iran.


==Music== ==Music==
Line 93: Line 92:


| title3 = ] | title3 = ]
| extra3 = ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://malayalam.webdunia.com/entertainment/film/cinemanews/1107/27/1110727033_1.htm|title=തെന്നിന്ത്യയില്‍ മോഹന്‍ലാലിനും ഇംഗ്ലീഷറിയാം, വേണമെങ്കില്‍ പാട്ടും പാടും!}}</ref> | extra3 = ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://malayalam.webdunia.com/entertainment/film/cinemanews/1107/27/1110727033_1.htm|title=തെന്നിന്ത്യയില്‍ മോഹന്‍ലാലിനും ഇംഗ്ലീഷറിയാം, വേണമെങ്കില്‍ പാട്ടും പാടും!|access-date=27 July 2011|archive-date=25 September 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925055740/http://malayalam.webdunia.com/entertainment/film/cinemanews/1107/27/1110727033_1.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>


| title4 = Kalamozhikalayi | title4 = Kalamozhikalayi
Line 103: Line 102:
}} }}


The music launch of the film was held on 9 August in Kochi. The function was attended by the film's cast and also by the music director, M. Jayachandran.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-mohanlals-pranayam-with-blessy/20110810.htm|title=Blessy's Pranayam gets ready for release|date=10 August 2011|publisher=Rediff|accessdate=31 August 2011|author=Meghna George}}</ref> ] has released a which welcomes reviews from the audience. The music launch of the film was held on 9 August in Kochi. The function was attended by the film's cast and also by the music director, M. Jayachandran.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-mohanlals-pranayam-with-blessy/20110810.htm|title=Blessy's Pranayam gets ready for release|date=10 August 2011|publisher=Rediff|access-date=31 August 2011|author=Meghna George|archive-date=2 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102091124/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-mohanlals-pranayam-with-blessy/20110810.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> ] has released a which welcomes reviews from the audience.


==Reception== ==Reception==
The film released coinciding with the festival of ] on 31 August 2011. The film was released coinciding with the festival of ] on 31 August 2011.


A critic from ] said, "''Pranayam'' is in an entirely different league, far above most films that we come across in Malayalam, but still it falls short of being a brilliant one. It has some fine moments, but you will need some patience to find those, in between!".<ref></ref> A critic from ] said, "''Pranayam'' is in an entirely different league, far above most films that we come across in Malayalam, but still it falls short of being a brilliant one. It has some fine moments, but you will need some patience to find those, in between!".<ref></ref>


Paresh C. Palicha of Rediff.com who published an overall negative review concluded it writing: "Pranayam, that claimed to be an unusual love story, has to depend on its protagonists to work as it lacks depth and is much below expectations from a director of Blessy's calibre."<ref></ref> Paresh C. Palicha of Rediff.com who published an overall negative review concluded it by writing: "Pranayam, that claimed to be an unusual love story, has to depend on its protagonists to work as it lacks depth and is much below expectations from a director of Blessy's calibre."<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/south-review-pranayam-lacks-depth/20110901.htm |title="Review: Pranayam lacks depth" |access-date=8 December 2011 |archive-date=27 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111127154747/http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/south-review-pranayam-lacks-depth/20110901.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>


] called ''Pranayam'' as one of the seven best films of his career. He says: "''Pranayam'' is one of the seven best films of my career. It has been a great learning experience for me."<ref name="Blessy interview"/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-its-festive-time-for-malayalam-films/20110829.htm|title=It's festive time for Malayalam films|publisher=Rediff|date=29 August 2011|accessdate=31 August 2011}}</ref> The film was widely appreciated for great performance made by ], ], and ]. ] called ''Pranayam'' as one of the seven best films of his career. He says: "''Pranayam'' is one of the seven best films of my career. It has been a great learning experience for me."<ref name="Blessy interview"/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-its-festive-time-for-malayalam-films/20110829.htm|title=It's festive time for Malayalam films|publisher=Rediff|date=29 August 2011|access-date=31 August 2011|archive-date=10 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111210004541/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-its-festive-time-for-malayalam-films/20110829.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> The film was widely appreciated for great performance made by ], ], and ].


The film picked up after a slow start and end went on to be a surprise hit of 2011 where the film went on to complete 50 days in Trivandrum, Ernakulam & Trichur. The film picked up after a slow start and the end, went on to be average in 2011, and completed 50 days in Trivandrum, Ernakulam & Trichur.


==Controversy ==
==Accusations of plagiarism==
The film's plot is similar to ]'s Australian film '']'' (2000). However Blessy hasn't accepted that his movie is based on a foreign film. A controversy aroused when actor ] raised plagiarism charges against Blessy and criticised the ] jury for awarding him with the Best Director title. Noted film critic ] says, "''Pranayam'' is not only inspired by ''Innocence'' but most of the shots are also similar. The jury selected was not competent enough and the panel should be able to spot the difference between an original and a copy." Jury chairman ] clarifies: "I watched the Hollywood movie after Salim’s criticism because I was in a dilemma whether my judgement was wrong. But now I am confident that it was correct. After watching it, I was happy that we gave the award to Blessy whose movie was clearly not based on that movie. In fact, love triangle has been happening ever since love came into this universe. There are many movies which have this triangular formula. In fact, if Blessy had taken it from that movie, it would have given him a bad name. But now I can say that he has not taken it from that movie. In fact the characterisation of Mohanlal has been done so well."<ref>{{cite news|authors=Shruti Karthikeyan, Monisha Mohandas |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/tabloid/kochi/plagiarism-pandora%E2%80%99s-box-032 |title=Plagiarism, a pandora’s box|newspaper=]|location=]|date=27 July 2012|accessdate=30 October 2012}}</ref> The film's plot is similar to ]'s Australian film '']'' (2000). However, Blessy hasn't accepted that his movie is based on a foreign film. A controversy arose when actor ] raised plagiarism charges against Blessy and criticized the ] jury for awarding him with the Best Director title. Noted film critic ] says, "''Pranayam'' is not only inspired by ''Innocence'' but most of the shots are also similar. The jury selected was not competent enough and the panel should be able to spot the difference between an original and a copy." Jury chairman ] clarifies: "I watched the Hollywood movie after Salim's criticism because I was in a dilemma whether my judgment was wrong. But now I am confident that it was correct. After watching it, I was happy that we gave the award to Blessy whose movie was clearly not based on that movie. In fact, the love triangle has been happening ever since love came into this universe. There are many movies that have this triangular formula. In fact, if Blessy had taken it from that movie, it would have given him a bad name. But now I can say that he has not taken it from that movie. In fact, the characterisation of Mohanlal has been done so well."<ref>{{cite news|author=Shruti Karthikeyan|author2=Monisha Mohandas|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/tabloid/kochi/plagiarism-pandora%E2%80%99s-box-032|title=Plagiarism, a pandora's box|newspaper=]|location=]|date=27 July 2012|access-date=30 October 2012|archive-date=27 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120727025713/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/tabloid/kochi/plagiarism-pandora%E2%80%99s-box-032|url-status=dead}}</ref>


However, Paul Cox says that he was happy that his movie had been inspirational for ''Pranayam''. "I am a person who believes in human virtues. If someone has adapted my film for another language, I am happy about it. Anyway, the matter would have reached courts if it were in America...Learned that a film of the same story was released in Malayalam and had won several awards. I am happy if such a thing has happened," Paul Cox said during his visit to Kerala as part of the 17th ].<ref>{{cite web|first=Rishi |last=K.Manoj |date=29 November 2012|url=http://english.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/contentView.do?contentId=12927335&channelId=-1073865028&catId=-189421 |title="Happy if Pranayam was inspired by my film: Paul Cox"|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130128051820/http://english.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/contentView.do?contentId=12927335&channelId=-1073865028&catId=-189421 |archive-date=28 January 2013 |work=]}}</ref> However, Paul Cox says that he was happy that his movie had been inspirational for ''Pranayam''. "I am a person who believes in human virtues. If someone has adapted my film for another language, I am happy about it. Anyway, the matter would have reached courts if it were in America...Learned that a film of the same story was released in Malayalam and had won several awards. I am happy if such a thing has happened," Paul Cox said during his visit to Kerala as part of the 17th ].<ref>{{cite web|first=Rishi |last=K.Manoj |date=29 November 2012|url=http://english.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/contentView.do?contentId=12927335&channelId=-1073865028&catId=-189421 |title="Happy if Pranayam was inspired by my film: Paul Cox"|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130128051820/http://english.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/contentView.do?contentId=12927335&channelId=-1073865028&catId=-189421 |archive-date=28 January 2013 |work=]}}</ref>


It has also been accused that a very similar script was originally written by music director ] based on his own life and he wanted to direct the film on his own. Mohan Sitara says: "I can only say I’m unlucky. But, I’ve no complaints against Blessy." Blessy replies: "I know Mohan had a similar experience in real life. But, I’d never seen his script. "<ref></ref> It has also been accused that a very similar script was originally written by music director ] based on his own life and he wanted to direct the film on his own. Mohan Sitara says: "I can only say I'm unlucky. But, I've no complaints against Blessy." Blessy replies: "I know Mohan had a similar experience in real life. But, I'd never seen his script. "<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/others/musician-mohan-sitaras-life-inspired-pranayam-no-says-blessy-925 |title="Musician Mohan Sitara's life inspired 'Pranayam'? No, says Blessy" |access-date=8 December 2011 |archive-date=2 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111202221622/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/others/musician-mohan-sitaras-life-inspired-pranayam-no-says-blessy-925 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


==Awards== ==Awards==
Line 145: Line 144:
* Best Music Director - ] * Best Music Director - ]


; Kerala Film Producers Association - Surya TV Film Awards<ref>{{cite web|url=http://latestawardsinkerala.blogspot.in/2012/03/kerala-film-producers-association-surya.html|title=Surya Film Awards 2011}}</ref> ; Kerala Film Producers Association - Surya TV Film Awards<ref>{{cite web|url=http://latestawardsinkerala.blogspot.in/2012/03/kerala-film-producers-association-surya.html|title=Surya Film Awards 2011|date=24 March 2012|access-date=27 March 2012|archive-date=13 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113142504/http://latestawardsinkerala.blogspot.in/2012/03/kerala-film-producers-association-surya.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
* Best Film * Best Film
* Best Actor - ] * Best Actor - ]
* Outstanding Performance - ] * Outstanding Performance - ]


; Viewers Choice Awards<ref>{{cite web|url=http://filmcrack.com/malayalam/viewers-choice-award-2011/|title=Viewers Choice Award - Malayalam 2011|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20111224182021/http://filmcrack.com/malayalam/viewers-choice-award-2011/|archivedate=24 December 2011|df=dmy-all}}</ref> ; Viewers Choice Awards<ref>{{cite web|url=http://filmcrack.com/malayalam/viewers-choice-award-2011/|title=Viewers Choice Award - Malayalam 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111224182021/http://filmcrack.com/malayalam/viewers-choice-award-2011/|archive-date=24 December 2011}}</ref>
* Best Film * Best Film
* Best Actor - ] * Best Actor - ]
Line 158: Line 157:
* Best Actor - ] * Best Actor - ]


; Mathrubhumi Film Awards<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mathrubhumi.com/movies/malayalam/252066/|title=Mathrubhumi Film Awards 2011|access-date=16 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216031329/http://www.mathrubhumi.com/movies/malayalam/252066/|archive-date=16 February 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> ; Mathrubhumi Film Awards<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mathrubhumi.com/movies/malayalam/252066/|title=Mathrubhumi Film Awards 2011|access-date=16 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216031329/http://www.mathrubhumi.com/movies/malayalam/252066/|archive-date=16 February 2012}}</ref>
* Best Film * Best Film
* Best Lyricist - ] * Best Lyricist - ]
Line 171: Line 170:


; ] Awards ; ] Awards
* Best Actor - ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cinemadoctor.blogspot.com/2012/01/ramu-karyat-award-for-mohan-lal-kavya.html|title=Ramu Kariat Awards}}</ref> * Best Actor - ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cinemadoctor.blogspot.com/2012/01/ramu-karyat-award-for-mohan-lal-kavya.html|title=Ramu Kariat Awards|access-date=27 January 2012|archive-date=30 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120130131254/http://cinemadoctor.blogspot.com/2012/01/ramu-karyat-award-for-mohan-lal-kavya.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
* Best Music Director - ] * Best Music Director - ]


; Reporter Film Awards ; Reporter Film Awards
* Best Actor - ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://latestawardsinkerala.blogspot.in/2012/04/reporter-film-awards-1st-edition.html|title=Reporter Film Awards 2011}}</ref> * Best Actor - ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://latestawardsinkerala.blogspot.in/2012/04/reporter-film-awards-1st-edition.html|title=Reporter Film Awards 2011|date=8 April 2012|access-date=8 April 2012|archive-date=13 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113141309/http://latestawardsinkerala.blogspot.in/2012/04/reporter-film-awards-1st-edition.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


; Amrita Film Awards ; Amrita Film Awards
Line 182: Line 181:
* Best Lyricist - ] * Best Lyricist - ]


; Kochi ] Film Awards<ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-06-23/news-and-interviews/32369964_1_video-mohanlal-kavya-madhavan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004233019/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-06-23/news-and-interviews/32369964_1_video-mohanlal-kavya-madhavan|url-status=dead|archive-date=4 October 2013|title=The Kochi Times Film Awards 2011|newspaper=]|date=23 June 2012|accessdate=26 June 2012}}</ref> ; Kochi ] Film Awards<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/malayalam/news-and-interviews/The-Kochi-Times-Film-Awards-2011/articleshow/14341029.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004233019/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-06-23/news-and-interviews/32369964_1_video-mohanlal-kavya-madhavan|archive-date=4 October 2013|title=The Kochi Times Film Awards 2011|newspaper=]|date=23 June 2012|url-status=live|access-date=26 June 2012}}</ref>
* Best Actor - ] * Best Actor - ]
* Best Lyricist - ] * Best Lyricist - ]
Line 199: Line 198:


{{Blessy}} {{Blessy}}
{{Kerala Film Critics Association Award for Best Film}}


] ]
] ]
⚫ ]
] ]
] ]
]
] ]
] ]
]
]
]
]
⚫ ]
]

Latest revision as of 22:10, 17 November 2024

2011 Indian film
Pranayam
Life is more beautiful than a dream
Directed byBlessy
Written byBlessy
Produced byP. K. Sajeev
Anne Sajeev
StarringMohanlal
Jaya Prada
Anupam Kher
CinematographySatheesh Kurup
Edited byRaja Muhammed
Music byM. Jayachandran
Production
company		Fragrant Nature Film Creations
Distributed byMaxlab Entertainments (Tamilnadu)
Mohit Productions & Studio99 Films
(outside Kerala)
Release date
  • 31 August 2011 (2011-08-31)
Running time139 minutes
CountryIndia
LanguageMalayalam

Pranayam (transl. Love) is a 2011 Indian Malayalam-language romantic drama film written and directed by Blessy. The film stars Mohanlal, Jaya Prada, and Anupam Kher. The plot revolves around the love bond between the characters of Mathews (Mohanlal), Grace (Jaya Prada), and Achutha Menon (Kher). The music for the film was composed by M. Jayachandran. The film opened to positive reviews from critics and was also average at the box office.

Plot

The film begins with Achutha Menon, a man in his late sixties, arriving in the city to stay with his daughter-in-law and granddaughter after suffering a heart attack. He was a football player who had been selected to be on the State team but could never play for the team. He moulded his life and career to accommodate the romance in his life.

One day, Menon sees his former wife, Grace, in the elevator and collapses. Grace, who is staying in the same building with her husband, daughter, and son-in-law, arranges for him to be taken to the hospital and even pays the deposit for the emergency treatment. Slowly their relationship is revealed as she is very anxious about his condition.

Grace's husband, Mathews, is a retired philosophy professor who has his own philosophy of life. He is now bedridden and requires his wife's help to accomplish the most basic day-to-day tasks. Their physical intimacy is an indication that they may have led a fulfilling life as a couple before the tragedy struck.

The children start acting up as the old couple revives their acquaintance. In the later half of the film, even Mathews joins the former couple with Achuthan helping Grace maneuver her husband's wheelchair in rough terrains. The three take a trip to a beach resort together.

At the resort, Mathews has a stroke and is rushed to the hospital. At the same hospital, Grace has a heart attack and dies, while Mathews survives. The last scene shows Mathew placing flowers at her gravestone, Achutha Menon helping him, and finally, wheeling him off somewhere as one hopes that two friends have comfort and companionship for the rest of their years.

Cast

Production

Blessy claims that he has gone through almost 25 years of hibernation for Pranayam. He says, "For so many years I have been carrying the subject in me as a writer, journeying with it as visuals and words. I have now transferred that to the characters. It's like letting go of something that was your own until now. And that is painful." Blessy had discussed the storyline with writer-director Lohithadas, during the making of his Joker, in which he was the associate director. Lohithadas had told Blessy about how he had envisaged Mathews. After Bhramaram, Blessy had started writing a story based on a few youngsters but didn't feel excited about it after a while as many similar stories were flooding theatres. Suddenly the story of Pranayam came back into his mind. About the scripting, Blessy says, "The interesting thing about this script is that even before I started writing it, what I had in my mind was its last frame. So I started developing the journey back from the last frame and completed it."

P. K. Sajeev and Anne Sajeev are the producers under the banner of Fragrant Nature Film Creations. Aneesh Jacob is the executive producer. The first schedule of shooting started on 16 February 2011 at Cheranallur in Kerala. Mohanlal joined the set on 23 February. The second schedule started on June first week in Kochi. Pranayam was shot on locations, including Ernakulam, Fort Kochi, Valinokkam, Kullu Manali, and Rewari. Satheesh Kurup wielded the camera for the film. "There is an invisible spark that flashes just seeing the look or a smile of a person and when the beauty within him is revealed to you. You don't need to see a bio-data or wade through his past work. You just connect with him," explains Blessy on his decision to hand over the camera to a novice like Satheesh Kurup.

The film was released on a credit as Mohanlal's 300th. It is the third time Blessy and Mohanlal signed a bond together after Thanmathra and Bhramaram. The film will have the credit for reuniting Mohanlal and Jayaprada as a couple after Devadoothan. Mohanlal and Anupam Kher are on the screens again after Praja and Indrajaalam. Asked about his experience and challenges that he faced while working in an unfamiliar language, Anupam Kher said "Acting in a different language film is like being thrown into a swimming pool without knowing how to swim. Blessy being a good trainer, acting in Pranayam didn't pose a challenge."

Pranayam's official website was launched by Anupam Kher on 29 August 2011 at a Meet the Press program organised by the Trivandrum Press Club.

Some scenes of the song "Paatil Ee Paatil" were shot in the beach area of Kish Islands, Iran.

Music

Pranayam
Soundtrack album by M. Jayachandran
Released2011
GenreSoundtrack
LabelManorama Music
ProducerPK Sajeev and Anne Sajeev
M. Jayachandran chronology
'Rathinirvedam'
(2011) 		Pranayam
(2011) 		'Swapna Sanchari'
(2011)

All lyrics are written by O. N. V. Kurup; all music is composed by M. Jayachandran

No.TitleArtist(s)Length
1."Paattil Ee Paattil"Shreya Ghoshal 
2."Mazhathulli Palunkukal"Vijay Yesudas, Shreya Ghoshal 
3."I'm Your Man"Mohanlal 
4."Kalamozhikalayi"Sharreth 
5."Paattil Ee Paattil"P. Jayachandran 

The music launch of the film was held on 9 August in Kochi. The function was attended by the film's cast and also by the music director, M. Jayachandran. Manorama Music has released a Music Special Website which welcomes reviews from the audience.

Reception

The film was released coinciding with the festival of Onam on 31 August 2011.

A critic from Sify.com said, "Pranayam is in an entirely different league, far above most films that we come across in Malayalam, but still it falls short of being a brilliant one. It has some fine moments, but you will need some patience to find those, in between!".

Paresh C. Palicha of Rediff.com who published an overall negative review concluded it by writing: "Pranayam, that claimed to be an unusual love story, has to depend on its protagonists to work as it lacks depth and is much below expectations from a director of Blessy's calibre."

Anupam Kher called Pranayam as one of the seven best films of his career. He says: "Pranayam is one of the seven best films of my career. It has been a great learning experience for me." The film was widely appreciated for great performance made by Mohanlal, Anupam Kher, and Jaya Prada.

The film picked up after a slow start and the end, went on to be average in 2011, and completed 50 days in Trivandrum, Ernakulam & Trichur.

Controversy

The film's plot is similar to Paul Cox's Australian film Innocence (2000). However, Blessy hasn't accepted that his movie is based on a foreign film. A controversy arose when actor Salim Kumar raised plagiarism charges against Blessy and criticized the Kerala State Film Awards jury for awarding him with the Best Director title. Noted film critic Vijayakrishnan says, "Pranayam is not only inspired by Innocence but most of the shots are also similar. The jury selected was not competent enough and the panel should be able to spot the difference between an original and a copy." Jury chairman Bhagyaraj clarifies: "I watched the Hollywood movie after Salim's criticism because I was in a dilemma whether my judgment was wrong. But now I am confident that it was correct. After watching it, I was happy that we gave the award to Blessy whose movie was clearly not based on that movie. In fact, the love triangle has been happening ever since love came into this universe. There are many movies that have this triangular formula. In fact, if Blessy had taken it from that movie, it would have given him a bad name. But now I can say that he has not taken it from that movie. In fact, the characterisation of Mohanlal has been done so well."

However, Paul Cox says that he was happy that his movie had been inspirational for Pranayam. "I am a person who believes in human virtues. If someone has adapted my film for another language, I am happy about it. Anyway, the matter would have reached courts if it were in America...Learned that a film of the same story was released in Malayalam and had won several awards. I am happy if such a thing has happened," Paul Cox said during his visit to Kerala as part of the 17th International Film Festival of Kerala.

It has also been accused that a very similar script was originally written by music director Mohan Sitara based on his own life and he wanted to direct the film on his own. Mohan Sitara says: "I can only say I'm unlucky. But, I've no complaints against Blessy." Blessy replies: "I know Mohan had a similar experience in real life. But, I'd never seen his script. "

Awards

Kerala State Film Awards
Film Critics Awards
Asianet Film Awards
South Indian International Movie Awards
Kerala Film Producers Association - Surya TV Film Awards
Viewers Choice Awards
Vanitha Film Awards
Mathrubhumi Film Awards
Nana Film Awards
  • Best Actress - Jaya Prada
  • Best Makeup Artist - Ranjith Ambady
  • Special Jury Mention - Mohanlal
Ramu Kariat Awards
Reporter Film Awards
Amrita Film Awards
Kochi Times Film Awards
Mirchi Music Awards South

References

  1. "First Look: Anupam Kher and Jayaprada in Pranayam". Archived from the original on 17 June 2011. Retrieved 17 June 2011.
  2. "Row over Kerala State Films Award". The Times of India. 10 January 2017. Archived from the original on 8 July 2018. Retrieved 3 July 2020.
  3. Shruti Karthikeyan (23 August 2011). "Lessons from reel life". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 31 January 2012. Retrieved 31 August 2011.
  4. ^ "Interview Of The Week: Blessy's 'Pranayam'". Yentha. 29 August 2011. Archived from the original on 26 September 2011. Retrieved 31 August 2011.
  5. "A romantic interlude"
  6. "Pranayanam start from tomorrow". Archived from the original on 23 February 2011. Retrieved 17 June 2011.
  7. "Mohanlal joins in 'Pranayam'". Archived from the original on 15 March 2012. Retrieved 17 June 2011.
  8. ^ Sreejith (31 August 2011). "Pranayam: the bitter-sweet wine for all seasons". City Journal. Archived from the original on 25 February 2012. Retrieved 31 August 2011.
  9. "തെന്നിന്ത്യയില്‍ മോഹന്‍ലാലിനും ഇംഗ്ലീഷറിയാം, വേണമെങ്കില്‍ പാട്ടും പാടും!". Archived from the original on 25 September 2011. Retrieved 27 July 2011.
  10. Meghna George (10 August 2011). "Blessy's Pranayam gets ready for release". Rediff. Archived from the original on 2 November 2012. Retrieved 31 August 2011.
  11. "Movie Review: Pranayam"
  12. ""Review: Pranayam lacks depth"". Archived from the original on 27 November 2011. Retrieved 8 December 2011.
  13. "It's festive time for Malayalam films". Rediff. 29 August 2011. Archived from the original on 10 December 2011. Retrieved 31 August 2011.
  14. Shruti Karthikeyan; Monisha Mohandas (27 July 2012). "Plagiarism, a pandora's box". Deccan Chronicle. Kochi, India. Archived from the original on 27 July 2012. Retrieved 30 October 2012.
  15. K.Manoj, Rishi (29 November 2012). ""Happy if Pranayam was inspired by my film: Paul Cox"". Malayala Manorama. Archived from the original on 28 January 2013.
  16. ""Musician Mohan Sitara's life inspired 'Pranayam'? No, says Blessy"". Archived from the original on 2 December 2011. Retrieved 8 December 2011.
  17. ""Mohanlal, Blessy bag Critics award"". Mathrubhumi. 29 May 2012. Archived from the original on 29 May 2012.
  18. ""നക്ഷത്രങ്ങള്‍ മണ്ണിലിറങ്ങി; ഉത്സവമായി ഏഷ്യാനെറ്റ് അവാര്‍ഡ് നിശ"". Mathrubhumi. 8 January 2012. Archived from the original on 9 January 2012.
  19. "Surya Film Awards 2011". 24 March 2012. Archived from the original on 13 November 2014. Retrieved 27 March 2012.
  20. "Viewers Choice Award - Malayalam 2011". Archived from the original on 24 December 2011.
  21. "Mathrubhumi Film Awards 2011". Archived from the original on 16 February 2012. Retrieved 16 February 2012.
  22. "Ramu Kariat Awards". Archived from the original on 30 January 2012. Retrieved 27 January 2012.
  23. "Reporter Film Awards 2011". 8 April 2012. Archived from the original on 13 November 2014. Retrieved 8 April 2012.
  24. "The Kochi Times Film Awards 2011". The Times of India. 23 June 2012. Archived from the original on 4 October 2013. Retrieved 26 June 2012.

External links

Films by Blessy
Kerala Film Critics Association Award for Best Film
1977 – 2000
2001 – 2021
Categories: