WHEN NAIVITY INTERSECTS WITH DEPRAVITY

The American novelist, Ernest Hemingway wrote: “All things truly wicked start with innocence.” Perhaps; but, the truly wicked always ends with trauma…and, at times, stigma, which sacrifice saves.

“ಸುಪ್ರಭಾತ” (‘Suprabhāta’, which means ‘Auspicious Dawn’) is a 1988 Kannada movie, which impressed critics and enamored audiences. The romantic drama was a musical extravaganza; a commercial megahit, it won awards by the dozen too.

Vijay Kumar (Vishnuvardhan) is the owner of a petrol bunk on a hill station. He leads a lonely, reclusive life out of choice. The shyness and introversion stems from his past speech disorder. He does engage in long monologues though, perhaps to break out of his boredom.  

Enter Hema (Suhasini), a very reticent, reserved lady…and Vijay’s attraction to her blossoms into love. But soon, Vijay tumbles upon Hema’s dark past. So how does the discovered secret impact the romance? That is the rest of the film.

Penned and directed by Dinesh Baboo, the romantic drama has an offbeat theme that has been ‘mainstreamed’ adeptly. Notwithstanding the masala elements in the screenplay, the social message is as unique as it is sublime. Technically, the film is a touch antiquated. Set to the lyrics of the legendary Chi. Udaya Shankar, the original scores of the hotshot duo, Rajan-Nagendra, are outstanding.

Vishnuvardhan and Suhasini in the lead roles are a visual treat; the monologues of the former are a delight. Their onscreen chemistry is remarkably alluring. The members of the supporting cast have put in adequate performances.

I rate this flick: 7.5 on 10!