Netflix’s documentary, Modern Masters: SS Rajamouli, is akin to experiencing one of the filmmaker’s own cinematic spectacles. Just as SS Rajamouli elevates his heroes in films to epic proportions, the documentary mirrors this grandiosity, celebrating Rajamouli’s ascent from a modest background to global acclaim. The film masterfully captures the filmmaker’s journey with a dramatic flair, culminating in a stirring montage of his Oscar and Golden Globe triumphs that evokes cheers similar to those of a hero’s victory in his films.
Celebrating The Filmmaker’s Illustrious Journey
Directed by Raghav Khanna, Modern Masters: SS Rajamouli delves into the filmmaker’s remarkable career, providing a fascinating glimpse into his rise from humble beginnings to becoming an internationally recognized name. The documentary is well-structured, integrating interviews with Rajamouli’s talented family, including his father, V. Vijayendra Prasad, actors Prabhas, Ram Charan, Jr. NTR, Rana Daggubati, and prominent figures like director-producer Karan Johar and James Caron.
Rajamouli’s reflections on witnessing his father’s struggles as a filmmaker offer a poignant parallel to Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s discussions of his own childhood hardships. Both filmmakers’ early experiences of deprivation have shaped their majestic storytelling styles. This thematic similarity suggests a deeper exploration could reveal how such personal voids contribute to the creation of monumental cinematic works.
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Rajamouli As A ‘Karma Yogi’
The documentary portrays Rajamouli as a ‘Karma Yogi,’ drawing on his views about atheism and Sanatan Dharma’s approach to work. Rajamouli’s discourse on treating work as divine echoes the philosophical depth found in traditional Indian beliefs. His father’s respect for his son’s atheistic stance, echoed in a manner reminiscent of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s respectful acknowledgment of differing beliefs, adds a layer of intellectual respect to the narrative.
The climax of the documentary, highlighting Rajamouli’s international accolades, effectively evokes a sense of pride as he propels Indian cinema onto the global stage. The conclusion emphasizes Rajamouli’s commitment to preserving Indian stories through his films, reinforcing the idea that his achievements are not just personal victories but milestones for Indian cinema.
Critique of the documentary
Anupama Chopra, a renowned film critic, lends her narrative expertise to the documentary. Known for her incisive interviews, Chopra’s presence is a highlight, but the documentary does not fully realize the potential suggested by its title, Modern Masters. While it aptly showcases Rajamouli’s accomplishments, it falls short in providing an in-depth exploration of his creative process and personal experiences. The audience is left wanting more insight into how his worldwide acclaim has impacted him and what future projects might lie ahead.
In essence, while the documentary succeeds in celebrating Rajamouli’s extraordinary achievements and his role in elevating Indian cinema globally, it misses the opportunity to delve deeper into his filmmaking techniques and personal evolution. It remains a compelling watch for those interested in his accolades and influence but lacks a comprehensive look at the man behind the camera.
Overall, Modern Masters: SS Rajamouli is a testament to the filmmaker’s remarkable journey but leaves viewers yearning for a more nuanced exploration of his artistry and future ambitions.
