Kaur’s documentary broke boundaries, a defiant melody that dared to break free from the symphony’s predictable score. Murmurs of appreciation echoed through the hushed theatre proving the movie’s raw narrative. Such an intricate work of art gasping for air in the triviality of life. It stands out as threads of life’s unvarnished reality, in contrast to the gaudy ephemerality that often dominates our existence. Its simplicity and rawness carved the insides of the audience’s heart securing a place. The documentary’s triumph echoed throughout the festival circuit, claiming the coveted title of “best” at prestigious gatherings like Sundance and the Gotham Awards, its success a testament to its artistic merit and emotional resonance.
The story dives into the life of two indigenous fishermen Ganesh and Rakesh who grapple with the relentless challenge of sustaining their families as their once-thriving fishing business declines due to the deteriorating condition of the sea. Their friendship is tested by various trials particularly because of their diverging views on how they choose to navigate their trade. Ganesh places his faith in modern technology using LEDs to fish while Rakesh thinks it’s very important to follow their roots and thus trusts the rhythms of the tide. Such a simple story creates a stark contrast between the different classes revealing the paradox of struggle. Ominous yet binding the threads of life blurring the boundaries that separate two people belonging from two different class groups. The movie demonstrates that while struggle is a constant, life is still worth the effort. Regardless of our origins or current status, we all face challenges. Struggle does not discriminate; it is a universal experience that unites us all.
One audience member observed that they had never encountered a more humane film. The cinematography ascended to extraordinary heights especially when the shots of the sea were up on the screen leaving us in awe of the interplay between the fishing nets and the roaring blue waters. The visual storytelling was particularly striking, capturing the essence of humanity amidst the vast, untamed ocean.
While some of the other audience members noted that this side of India is not often shown to us through the choice of cinema. We’re oblivious to the lives of fishermen and this movie takes us to a different world. What’s striking is how the film’s lens blurs the line between the audience and the story, portraying the Koli community as an integral part of us, highlighting our shared humanity and common experiences. Sarvnik ends the film with a glimmering aspect of hope transcending the cinematic masterfulness into a much elevated aspect of cinema. The screening proved that this is where true essence of cinema lies.
