Thursday 15 November 2012

Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts



A captivating story and epic novel. This book takes you on a long journey, with twists and turns and trials and tribulations. Although set in Mumbai, India, this novel is far from just a cultural book. The main character, Lin, starts a new life in Mumbai, which is a journey through life and all that it has to offer.

The first few chapters of the novel made me laugh outrageously. From the nodding Indian heads to the first shower in the village, the depictions of situations are brilliant. Settling in India with Lin was a gripping read which had me turning pages quickly. As Lin begins to settle down and makes a close knit community of friends, the story shifts. I particularly enjoyed learning about Mumbai, the nature of the city and its dark side. The way in which Roberts has captured and highlighted these is superb. Furthermore, Mumbai acts as a symbol for life itself. The lessons we are taught from Lin’s living in Mumbai are for life itself rather than a survival guide for India’s chaotic city.

I consider the strength of this novel to lie in the strong characterisation of its main characters. Through the artisitic descriptions, we grow to love some of the characters, such as Prabaker and Didier, and have a hunch about others, such as Abel Khader Khan and Karla. Although we know no more than the narrator himself, the way in which we instantly warm to some characters more than others is indicative of excellent characterisation. In addition to this, we are given a window into Lin’s heart through his deep sense of warmth and love for India almost straightaway and is further enforced throughout the novel. This is a very impressive writing technique rendered by Roberts.

The novel has many philosophical messages and life lessons which we are taught by living through Lin’s experiences. Learnings in the form of quotations which are evoked by the characters, in particular Karla and Khader Khan, add to the story. They give it a fantasy like, almost biblical element. This works really well with the themes of black market doings, corruption and general illegal activity that the novel works around. The message that everything is centred around money and corruption, even purity and love, is highlighted numerous times. Although a rather disturbing thought, we are able to piece together the events of the novel as a result.

I really enjoyed going on Lin’s journey of growth. The first person narrative style of this novel lends itself really well as it enables us as the reader to live through not only the hardships that he encounters, but also his experiences. This, in turn helps the reader feel as though they have also grown as a person. I think this is a unique feature of the book, which makes so many people enjoy and recommend it to others.

What I disliked about the novel is the long narratives of conversation between Khader Khan and Lin. Their spiritual conversations were lengthy and rather tiresome to read. I also found the prison descriptions and human suffering extremely difficult to read. However, I do believe that these parts are integral and add to the novel, as they show both the hardships and pleasures of life. The language in these sections of the novel are not as gripping as earlier parts of the novel and as a result, many readers give up reading the novel.

I believe that the success of this book is down to the strong ingredients it has to make a great novel; these being, friendship, adventure, philosophy and romance. A beautiful tale, in parts vivid and in parts brutal. The story and the way it is narrated, gives every reader the opportunity to become more well-rounded thinker and shrewder person. 

Sunday 14 October 2012

Three Sisters at The Young Vic


Benedict Andrews puts an unconventional and modern twist to the classic Russian play by Chekhov. Although traditionalists may be unimpressed with Andrews' take, you cannot deny the creative and unique way he brings this to stage. 

Olga, Masha and Irina are three sisters, all well-educated, living in a provincial town. All three of them dream of Moscow and starting a new life there one day, where they will live meaningful lives full of happiness. The sisters are idealistic and full of hope. With their younger brother's marriage to a brash lady acting as a catalyst, life changes for them, but not in the way they hope for. 

One of the most impressive things about this play for me was the way that the set was designed. It was minimalistic, yet portrayed the characters' situations and emotions. The stage is put together with several grey tables. These tables move around and away as the story runs. Grey symbolises the ennui and lack of excitement in the lives of all three sisters. The bold edges and angles of the tables also represent their two-dimensional lives as well as the lack of opportunity and hope for them. As the sisters begin to lose hope, little by little, the tables are turned, eventually they are dismantled and taken away from the stage. By the third Act, after the town fire, the stage is bare. The sisters are exposed to their worse nightmare: immobility. There is a mound of earth on which the three sisters seek solace in one another. Unlike the first Act, where they are far apart and there is little dialogue between the three, on top of the mound of earth, the sisters are huddled together and are finally bonding. Each of them longed for better and as their idealism turns into realism, they are united again and stronger.

Other small touches in Andrews' version include a few moments of silence as all the characters watch a spinning top spin away, which evokes their lives spinning away before their eyes and out of their control. There is also the sing-a-long by all the characters to Nirvana's Smells Like Teen Spirit. All of these touches emphasize the play's themes of ennui, diminished hope and the attitude of 'the grass is always greener'. The key message throughout that happiness is a myth is also underlined.

Unlike the traditional stage theatre, The Young Vic is an intimate theatre and has a surrounding audience. I feel that for this play, the stage worked particularly well. The music, the ringing bell and the characters' frustrations were all felt and heard by the audience, bringing these issues and themes alive and to the forefront. This gave the play an edge; although a classic Russian piece, these are modern day issues each and every one of us face at some point in our lives. There is no happy ever after with frills, nor curtains drawn at the end of the play. 


Strong symbolism and set design, impressive performances and a unique take on direction: a play that will be talked about for years to come. 



Sunday 22 April 2012

Paris Je T'Aime


Paris Je T'Aime is a collection of short stories set in the different districts of Paris. There are eighteen short stories which make up the whole film, which is a cinematic homage to the city of love. Each tale is markedly unique, and specific to the quirky style of its director. There are contributions from an array of directors and actors from around the globe. The theme of love is explored in different ways, from platonic love to love of the city, as well as the more obvious of romantic love. 

Each director presents their own short film with a different cast of characters and each varies in length. Some are fully developed stories, whilst others are just small glimpses into a situation. There are a few rather abstract stories also which are more reliant on imagery, dialogue and cinematography. Even though you only get a taste for each of the stories, the film does not seem fragmented or isolating. If anything, they all piece together as a jigsaw, evoking similar messages throughout of longing, connection and being. 

Those that are expecting a typically romantic film with a love story, will be shocked, surprised and maybe even disappointed. Although there are positive stories, there are also some very sad stories. Not every scene of Paris is full of light either. The mixture of stories allows for a multi-painted, multi-dimensional city, full of mystery, passion and humour combined. Furthermore, not every short story is in French, with a range of scenes from directors around the world, we are given the point of view of Paris as an outsider and Paris as the other, giving the film more depth and analysis.

I particularly liked ‘Bastille’ by Sergio Castellito, which is about a man who is on the verge of leaving his wife when he discovers she is terminally ill, and thus resolves to stay with her to make her dying days as pleasant as possible. The memorable quote ‘by acting like I was in love, I fell in love with my wife again’ is beautiful and makes a refreshing change to the typical extra-marital affair story. I also really liked the short story by Gurinder Chaddha, 'Quais De Seine' which features a teenage boy who is fascinated by a young Algerian Muslim girl after helping her from a fall. It is beautiful to see them become friends and there is a real message of anti-segregation and multicultural Paris here.

A spectacular collection of short films which highlight the beauty of cinema and showcases talent through an exploration of different themes and visuals. ‘Paris Je T’Aime’ does wonderfully to frame Paris as a character, the main character, that not only acts as a backdrop, but as an outlet and cause for emotions and events. A delightful film: cohesive, poignant, creative and a real celebration of talent.

Preview

Monday 9 April 2012

A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

A brilliant novel, informative and heart rendering. Set in the seventies in a large Indian town which is unknown to the reader, this novel chronicles the story of four individuals from very different sectors of the Indian caste system. Mistry is a spectacular storyteller. He is able to write with great detail of the minutiae of daily life without draining the novel with heavy descriptions, as well as link the narratives of the four characters into the larger picture. 

Each character is described in such a way that you feel as though you have met them in real life. The dialogues that break up the narrative also add to this effect. You cannot help but be drawn to the characters and their plight. In addition to this, the way that the relationships between the characters unfold and develop is natural, with trust being gained slowly through experiences. There is a real warmth to the relationships as the distance that the characters try and preserve due to differences in status or generation become discarded once happiness shines through.

The novel is full of stark contrasts. There are the obvious contrasts between rich and poor, life in the city versus the village and less obvious ones such as differences in attitudes. Even acts of kindness are undercut by inhumanity and cruelty. The contrasts serve as a constant reminder to the reader of the differences in life, especially in India, and how these combine to make a 'fine balance'. Despite it being a rather bleak and depressing novel most of the time, the title serves as a realistic, yet positive reminder of the beauty of life is because of this balance. In Mistry's own words, the 'fine balance' is between hope and despair. The lives of the characters are harsh, full of challenges and injustices. However, there is always perseverance, optimism and even humour. The finale of the novel shows how three of the characters get by and are still smiling. The only character that does not manage to keep up the balance is unable to bear life and its horrors destroy him. 

Mistry writes with such clarity into the political and social state of 1970s India and how deeply embedded the caste system was in society. There is a real sense of injustice shown in the corruption brought about by money and power, which is conveyed in the multiple narratives of turmoil and humiliation, which shock, appall and disgust the reader. Yet, Mistry portrays the beauty of human relationships that endure life through every hurdle. I especially love how he writes with no bias towards any particular religion or caste. Parsis, Muslims and Hindus are all shown to have kindness in their hearts and be able to be swayed by corruption. The same goes for the different castes. Even in the midst of evil and tragedy there is a message of hope because A Fine Balance is pivoted on the unlimited capacity that human beings have to survive and to selflessly care for one another. In his characters, Mistry has recreated the fates of many throughout the world through political unrest, war and other tragedy.

On finishing the novel, the reader may feel a little bit as though they have grown in spirit. Its power makes one appreciate the life a Westerner in modern day is blessed with. The novel is also uplifting in that it highlights how despite all, love, care and kindness prevails all.

Saturday 24 March 2012

Better Half - A Gujarati film by Ashish Kakkad

'Better Half' is a beautiful tale of friendship, marriage and companionship. Although in Gujarati and set in the capital, Ahmedabad, this film speaks many languages and is appreciated by many all over the world. It depicts the discrepancies between traditional and cultural versus modern society's thoughts and values on marriage and married life, in a simple but powerful way.

The film opens with the main character, Manav, as he prepares to move to the city in order to start a new role in his career. Right from the start, we see his family lovingly tease him on thinking about settling down with a wife. Manav is in no rush to get married and believes that meeting someone ought to be natural; he wouldn't dream of marrying just to settle down in a traditional family unit. Manav makes it clear that he would  much rather have a lifetime companion to share his life with.

Love does indeed creep up on Manav, and when he least expects it. We follow Manav's journey in love as he marries the girl he falls for and as the newleyweds marry, each of them learns the harsh reality. Many things get in the way of love: household chores, misunderstandings and the chaotic career life. As well as this, financial difficulties put a strain on their marriage. What both Kamini and Manav soon learn is that love is no bed of roses and that compromises are a must when it comes to happiness.

'Better Half' teaches us the values that should be learned and digested, whether we are from the older generation and living a simple countryside life, or a young professional living a hectic city life. Full of natural city life scenes, customs and surroundings, this film not only kicks you with nostalgia, it brings a touch of realism. There is even some music and dreamy scenes for the romantic film aficionados amongst you. All lyrics are written by Chirag Tripathi . Multi-talented, Kakkad, even features as a voice-over for a few of the characters that feature in the film.

What I most like about this film, is watching how the characters grow and develop. There isn't a particular siding or focus on any one character, as each of them plays an important role and have a voice in the film's message. This reflects how every individual, whether in society, family or in the workplace, has a distinct role and importance, and without one individual, the unit would crumble. One scene I particularly liked that highlights just this, is where Manav's mother is consoling her daughter in law and supporting her rather than taking the side of her son. Her character breaks the norm of the stereotypical unsupportive mother-in-law in the Indian family unit. 'Better Half' also reminds us about challenges and compromises one should learn to make in life in order to live harmoniously  Furthermore, the notion that everyone must work together to be happier and improved is also evoked. There is plenty of food for thought in this film.

An absolute delight of a film that can be enjoyed by all, young or old. A hearty congratulations to Ashish Kakkad for bringing a fresh breath of air to the Indian film industry, may there be many more ahead.


"Marriage has some thorns, but celibacy has no roses." - Vernon K McLellan.

"Unbroken happiness is a bore. It should have its ups and downs." - Moliere.

Sunday 19 February 2012

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Based in the sixties during the Nigerian Civil War, this is one of those few books that leave you staring at the final page, not wanting to believe that it's all over. I was completely consumed by this novel and have been taking every opportunity to discuss it with others since finishing it. 

The novel tackles a delicate subject, the lead up to and the course of Nigeria's Biafra War in the 1960's. It is told in a very readable and accessible way. The events unfold through the eyes of three central characters, who are swept along in the chaos of civil war. They are forced together and separated in unexpected ways throughout the war, each witnessing events that affect them deeply. 
Adichie writes beautifully, with strong imagery and fitting words. At times you are given the character's most intimate and private thoughts, and the way these are described makes the reader feel a part of the drama. The characters are so well rounded and realistic, that you can relate and sympathise with every single one of them at some point in the novel. The relationships between Olanna and Odenigbo; Olanna and Kainene; Kainene and Richard; Odenigbo and his group of intellectuals all develop or deteriorate throughout the events that shape the novel. Ugwu's loyalty remains throughout his dabble with base brutality. The strong contrasts in their lives are shown through these events, the ease with which life was lived before the war, the fear, panic and inhumane responses that ensued amongst both the rich and the poor. Furthermore, the inaction of the international community is something that is treated delicately yet commented on. 

Interwoven in the main plot are other important themes such as the necessity and ineffectiveness of emergency relief aid, for the innocent people displaced by war and through corruption and misappropriation. The use of child soldiers and the horrors they are forced to endure is also treated in the novel, making it particularly realistic yet raw. The role of religion in a war, wartime propaganda, how tribal loyalties and the political elite can tear a country apart are subjects all written about with care. Something that particularly stood out for me, was how the way in which the Western world perceives Africa and the realities of war. There is a particular scene that stands out, where two American reporters are more interested in the death of one white journalist than they are of one thousand local, black civilians. This irony comments on how all the aid and media coverage that the Western world use to show their sympathies are just political statements rather than genuine heartfelt, and how at the end of the day we are all human, yet across borders, divides and governments, we are all divided.

The structure of the novel worked well, creating intrigue and suspense throughout. It was gripping from start to finish and even though it is quite a harrowing and distressing account of war, it speaks volumes. The author's passion and dedication for her country is shown throughout, through the vivid descriptions as well as through the use of authorial intrusion. The way that traditional food and traditions are described, as well as how people are portrayed as resilient and loyal, leave you with a feeling that you have been to Nigeria yourself.

‘Half of a Yellow Sun’ is the symbol of the short-lived Biafran state. Adichie has created a masterpiece in this novel. Storytelling at its best, it is a major contribution to African literature and highly recommended.

Sunday 12 February 2012

Coconut Unlimited by Nikesh Shukla

'Coconut Unlimited' is set in the nineties within an immigrant community. The focus is on adolescence and the trials and tribulations of growing up. Our narrator and main character, Amit, is a first generation British Gujarati. 

The novel open with the three characters, Amit, Anand and Nishant who have reunited since their school days for Amit's stag night. After this introductory chapter you are taken back to Harrow in the 1990s where they grow up. Amit has a lot of expectation and pressure from his parents who have high ambitions for him. At school, he and his two friends are marked out as the only Asians in an exclusively white private school. Here, they are subjected to tirades of racial abuse from not only their peers, but also their teachers. Amit also feels estranged from his Asian community. From all this teenage angst, he begins to follow his creativity and create a hip-hop group called 'Coconut Unlimited' with his two pals. 'Coconut' is what he is nicknamed by his sister, as he is considered white inside his racial colouring exterior. 

What makes this novel  special is that you are able to get to know the characters as real life personalities. Shukla does well to not over describe, making it light and able to relate to. The novel tackles the themes of teenage angst and coming of age as well as cultural differences and finding your identity. As a result, most readers will be able to relate to the characters, regardless of whether they like hip hop music or are brought up in a mixed cultured society. There are many laugh out loud moments where you are reminded of the exuberance of youth and the fashion faux-pas. 

I would say that the only way in which this novel disappoints me slightly is that there are several controversial issues are touched upon, but not explored later on. The ending also feels rather abrupt where the characters are rounded off quickly. However, I think this may be the author’s way of showing how teenage friendships wear away through life. 

Full of compassion and nostalgia, a great first novel and worthy runner up for the Costa First Novel Award.



Saturday 21 January 2012

The Lion in Winter directed by Trevor Nunn at The Theatre Royal, Haymarket

A great theatrical piece. I think this play works well for stage because the subject matter and themes covered allow for theatrical interpretation and props. Gender wars and the strong presence of sexual politics keep the play alive yet entertaining. These themes are outlined well using props and theatrical tricks. 

The set designs are elegant and well placed to set the period of time perfectly, working well with the costumes and lighting. Traditional theatical methods to heighten the drama are used, for example, the way that the characters hide and are discovered behind curtains, is a classic stage ploy and creates that element of farce. There is also a monologue or two. 

It must be added that the play is well cast with Joanna Lumley and Robert Lindsay. Lindsay plays the role of Henry II beautifully. A strong character, he is emotive and able and to use his voice portray determination as well as emotion. Lumley plays the role of the demanding and determined Eleanor of Aquitaine finely. She is strIiking and ever present. Together they make a perfect duelling pair for stage.

What I particularly like about this play is how it manages to use history to portray a theme that is forever current: dysfunctional famielies. At the very core of the drama lays characters’ ambitions, desires and drive. One of Shakespeare's less-known plays, but one that is versatile for present day.

A fine balance of traditional themes and current, incorporated together well, making this play humorous yet gripping.  One to watch, especially recommended to current students of acting and stage design.




Saturday 7 January 2012

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

What a inspirational read. In fact, so much so that I feel strongly about it being recommended as prescription reading for those in need of it.

The novel is biographical yet spiritual. It teaches many lessons and provides plenty of food for thought. Although it is a simple read with many parts narrated in direct speech, this is the beauty of the novel, making it accessible to everyone. Regardless of your age, reading level or concentration level, you will be able to read this and appreciate it. Furthermore, it is small enough also to digest for those who are not regular readers.

There are quotations and words of wisdom, as well as points of view on the art of living life to its fullest. Truly wonderful reading: it will warm the heart, it will make you reflect and renew your thoughts and it will make you smile. I strongly feel that it should be added to everyone's reading lists. May Mitch and Morrie continue to inspire all over the globes for years to come.