I am slowly but surely beginning to discover the works of a master auteur whom I had know so little about, but whose great seminal works have emerged in my minds eye, like a rosebud revealing itself from the winter sleep. 'Nayak: The Hero', AKA 'O Herói', is a brilliant look into the world of filmmaking, acting, stardom, materialism and image worship, which Bengali legend Satyajit Ray's all-encompassing approach masterfully constructs. His approach weaves a multi-layered narrative around a film star, on route to the capital of India (Delhi), to collect an award, and through his interactions with fellow passengers on the train, surreal dreams and recollections remind him of the futility of idolisation and image worship, both immediately the cult of celebrity, but also more expansively, the cult of capitalism. As I am fast discovering, these sociological, progressive, leftist ideas are intrinsic to Ray's works, and a particular trait of his is the subtle use of motifs, incidental moments and dialogue that helps to convey these ideas. A particular scene where a passenger orders "Coke" emphasises this approach, as the waiter does not understand what the passenger wants until another passenger reminds him that he wants "Coke a Cola", which is a famous capitalist icon and instantly recognised by the waiter. The acting at all times is superb, and the protagonist, played by the legendary Uttam Kumar, is brilliant as the cool, charming, affable film star, whose ultimate flaws reveal the dichotomy between fiction and reality. In particular, Ray's choice of an established super star of Indian cinema, to play the role of a film super star has been the influence of many a film about film, and makes the film's subject even more potent. Although this is a character based narrative, Ray's technical brilliance means that we are treated to a aurally and visually stunning filmscape. The mesmerising visual touches abound, with the use of illusions and allusions, such as the nightmare scene where the protagonist finds himself in a desert made of bank notes and skeletons holding telephones. Watching this film and the intricacy of details, you can begin to understand why many in the know venerate Ray as the Kubrick of the East, including myself. If you don't know Ray or his works, then I highly recommend you track his films down and watch, because you won't be disappointed. 'Nayak: The Hero' in particular, deserves your unlimited attention.
Review of The Hero
