The Enigmatic Mastery Of The Rashomon Effect: A Deconstruction Of ‘Andhadhun’ (2018)

Why does our adoration for ‘Andhadhun’ know no bounds? The Rashomon Effect, a term coined after the iconic 1950 film “Rashomon” by Akira Kurosawa, refers to a storytelling technique where multiple conflicting perspectives are presented to recount a single event or series of events. This narrative device has been employed in various forms in cinema to explore the subjectivity of truth, memory, and perception.

Now, we stand on the brink of unraveling the enchantment that Sriram Raghavan has masterfully orchestrated. He did jest with us, there is no denying it, but such jests are the crucible through which our audience sensibilities are forged. Today, I shall embark on a journey akin to the three acts, as once expounded by the illustrious John Cutter in the cinematic marvel ‘The Prestige,’ to dissect the magician’s most profound conjuration. Why does our adoration for ‘Andhadhun’ know no bounds? For it is in the seamless execution of these three acts that Sriram Raghavan weaves his spell, and therein lies the secret to the show’s resounding success.

Part I. The Pledge

‘Andhadhun’ follows the story of Akash, portrayed by Ayushmann Khurrana, a visually impaired pianist who becomes embroiled in a series of murders. From the very beginning, the film sets the stage for a narrative that is riddled with uncertainty, deception, and multiple versions of the truth.

Subjective Realities: The heart of ‘Andhadhun’ lies in its exploration of subjective realities. Every character in the film, from Akash to Simi (Tabu) and various others, has their own agenda, secrets, and motivations. These conflicting perspectives create an atmosphere of intrigue, where the audience is left to decipher who is telling the truth.

Parallel Storylines: To intensify the Rashomon Effect, Raghavan employs parallel storylines. These narratives, unfolding simultaneously, offer different characters’ perspectives on the central murder mystery. The audience must piece together the puzzle, all while questioning the reliability of each character’s account.

Part II. The Turn

One of the remarkable aspects of ‘Andhadhun’ is its exploration of moral ambiguity. As the audience is presented with conflicting versions of events, it becomes increasingly challenging to discern who is telling the truth and who is manipulating the narrative to suit their interests. This moral gray area adds depth to the characters and the overall story.

Simi as the Enigmatic Antagonist: Tabu’s character, Simi, is central to the film’s moral ambiguity. Her actions throughout the narrative reveal a character who operates in shades of gray. Her unreliable narration and unpredictable behavior keep the audience guessing about her true motivations and the extent of her involvement in the crimes.

The Audience’s Dilemma: ‘Andhadhun’ challenges the audience’s own moral compass. As viewers, we are forced to confront the uncomfortable idea that we may sympathize with characters who are not entirely virtuous. The film poses a fundamental question: Can we trust the perspectives of characters who themselves are morally complex?

Part III. The Prestige

In addition to the labyrinthine narrative that ‘Andhadhun’ intricately weaves, the film’s exceptional technical and artistic craftsmanship deserves special recognition.

Cinematography takes center stage, and the virtuoso execution by K. U. Mohanan stands as a testament to the visual poetry in cinema. Through his lens, the film embarks on a visual odyssey, adroitly mirroring the protagonist’s blindness. We, the audience, are transported into Akash’s world of perpetual darkness, a realm where sight is but a distant memory, while simultaneously, we are thrust into the vivid, occasionally sinister, world that envelops him. Mohanan’s masterful cinematography becomes a crucial narrative element, serving to heighten the emotional resonance and thematic depth of the film.

The score and music, brilliantly orchestrated by Amit Trivedi, form the melodic heart of ‘Andhadhun.’ Trivedi’s composition not only enhances the film’s atmosphere but also wields the power of storytelling. The strains of classic piano compositions resonate through the film, becoming a language that speaks volumes about Akash’s character. The music becomes a portal, offering a glimpse into the labyrinthine corridors of his soul, echoing his joys, fears, and the mysteries that envelope him. It’s through this musical medium that we, as spectators, forge a deeper connection with the enigmatic protagonist and the world he inhabits.

In ‘Andhadhun,’ it is the meticulous attention to technical and artistic details that elevates the film from a mere narrative into a cinematic symphony. Through cinematography and music, the film transcends the boundaries of storytelling, becoming an immersive experience where sight and sound converge to create a work of art that lingers in the minds and hearts of its audience long after the credits roll.

Conclusion

‘Andhadhun’ is a brilliant cinematic achievement that showcases the enigmatic mastery of the Rashomon Effect. It leaves audiences spellbound, contemplating the nature of truth and the intricacies of human morality. Sriram Raghavan’s direction, combined with outstanding performances and technical brilliance, has created a film that not only entertains but also challenges and provokes thought.

As a work of art, ‘Andhadhun’ reminds us of the power of cinema to explore the depths of human experience, perception, and moral ambiguity. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Rashomon Effect in cinema, which continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of storytelling. This film is not merely a deconstruction of its narrative but a celebration of the limitless possibilities that cinema offers to tell complex, thought-provoking stories.