Narrative timelines: Studio activity

This blog is an assignment for the film studies course, led by Dr. Dilip Barad. In this task, I

aim to explain the timelines of three different films and analyze how each film reveals its

story.

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE :

Current Narrative: Interrogation in Police Custody

In "Slumdog Millionaire," the police interrogation serves as a grounding and suspenseful element. Following Jamal Malik's unexpected success on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?",

he is taken into custody and questioned by the police, who suspect foul play. During these

intense sessions, Jamal recounts how he knew the answers, with flashbacks revealing his

life story. The distrust and harsh treatment from the authorities underscore the systemic

violence and corruption, as well as the hardships Jamal has endured.

This narrative device not only builds tension but also lends authenticity to Jamal's incrediblejourney. 

The interrogation scenes anchor the film's more fantastical aspects in a gritty reality,

amplifying the impact and believability of Jamal's ultimate victory.

Narrative Before the K.B.C. Game Show

Jamal's involvement in the game show sets the stage for the narrative's final chapter. Each

question asked reveals a piece of his past, creating a compelling and urgent storyline. The

contrast between the glamorous game show setting and Jamal's impoverished background

highlights themes of poverty, class disparity, and the struggle for survival in Mumbai's slums.

Close-up shots and tight framing during the game show scenes intensify the tension,

focusing on Jamal's facial expressions and reactions. His motivation drives the narrative

forward, fueled by his quest to find his lost love, Latika, rather than a desire for wealth.

Flashback Narrative of Jamal's Childhood

The film employs flashbacks to explore Jamal Malik's childhood and adolescent years.

These flashbacks depict the harsh realities of life in Mumbai's slums, marked by poverty,

violence, and the need to survive. Each flashback is triggered by a question from "Who

Wants to Be a Millionaire?", connecting Jamal's current knowledge to specific moments from

his past. We see Jamal and his brother Salim navigating personal tragedies, evading

authorities, and enduring life in the slums, showcasing Jamal's resilience and ingenuity.

 Life of Pi: 

Narrative Structure and Themes

The movie "Life of Pi" employs a non-linear narrative structure, alternating between the

present and the past rather than following a chronological order. The majority of the story is

presented from Pi's perspective, though at times his recounting of events is called into

question. For instance, in the present timeline, Pi narrates his survival tale alongside the

tiger Richard Parker, but he begins by discussing his parents. About 15 minutes in, thenarrative shifts back to his childhood and progresses from there. At the 22:32 mark, Pi

embarks on his adventure, serving as an unreliable narrator. The central part of the story

unfolds between 35:48 and 01:48:30, with the film utilizing techniques such as montage,

zooms, and wide-angle shots to depict the past.

"Life of Pi" intertwines flashbacks and multiple perspectives, including the factual account

given to officials and the more fantastical version shared with the author. The film is rich with symbolism and explores religious themes and philosophical questions, such as the existence of God and the merits of different religions. These elements make the story multi-layered

and thought-provoking.

 Maharaja: 

A Synopsis and Themes

"Maharaja," a Tamil-language action thriller released in 2024, is directed by Nithilan

Swaminathan, who co-wrote the script with Raam Murali. The plot centers on a barber

seeking vengeance after a robbery at his home. He informs the police that his "Lakshmi"

was stolen, leaving them uncertain whether he refers to a person or something else. The

search for the missing "Lakshmi" drives the narrative, with the film's distinctive editing style

playing a significant role in shaping the viewer's perception and understanding of the story

The protagonist's engaging storytelling, combined with dynamic camera work, keeps theaudience captivated. The film delves into themes such as crime, family, and emotional

turmoil. It portrays the profound emotional impact on the main character, Maharaja (played by Vijay Sethupathi), while also highlighting the antagonist's influence over pivotal eventsand thefts. The creative use of flashbacks and present-day scenes enhances the clarity and emotional weight of the story.

"Maharaja" conveys the message that actions have consequences, encapsulated in the idea

that "what goes around comes around." It emphasizes the significance of one's actions andtheir eventual repercussions.

The Role of Narrative Techniques

In the films "Life of Pi," "Slumdog Millionaire," and "Maharaja," narrative techniques play a

crucial role in captivating audiences through striking visuals, non-linear storytelling, and deep emotional arcs. Flashbacks are a central device in each movie, offering insight into the

protagonists' backstories and how past events influence their present situations. This layered

storytelling approach adds complexity and keeps viewers engaged as they gradually

uncover significant aspects of the characters' lives.In "Life of Pi," the narrative shifts between the present and flashbacks to Pi's childhood, theshipwreck, and his journey at sea. The film's stunning visuals and magical realism elements

create a fully immersive experience.

"Slumdog Millionaire" uses a game show format, with each question prompting Jamal to

recall a memory from his challenging past. This narrative structure maintains suspense and emotional intensity, vividly depicting the harsh realities of life in Mumbai's slums."Maharaja" skillfully weaves together past and present to construct a compelling narrative. The film's intricate exploration of the protagonist's life, combined with its thrilling plot, keeps viewers hooked. Its dynamic editing, well-developed characters, and themes of crime andretribution make it particularly engaging.

Conclusion:

Each of these three films presents a complex narrative in a distinct style, delving into

profound themes such as survival, resilience, and the human spirit. "Life of Pi" explores

themes of faith, loss, and the power of imagination. "Slumdog Millionaire" portrays the stark realities of poverty, the drive for ambition, and the depth of love. "Maharaja" centers on

themes of revenge and redemption, weaving together the past and present. Through the use

of flashbacks, varied perspectives, and captivating visuals, these films engage audiences and leave a lasting impression. They demonstrate the power of diverse storytelling

techniques to transport viewers into different worlds and evoke a wide range of emotions.