Ammachi Yemba Nenapu

In a hamlet in coastal Karnataka lives Ammachi, a young girl who dared to live life according to her own whims. The patriarchal society around her, though, is keen on curbing her freedom.

Vaidehi is one of the more celebrated voices in Kannada literature. This film sees her weave three short stories written by her into one tale. The film is directed by theatreperson Champa Shetty, who has previously adapted Vaidehi's work on stage. This is not a film that has instant entertainment for the fast food generation. Instead, the tale takes its time to unfold as it weaves itself into a beautiful narrative that not just captures the ethos of its setting, but also subtly touches upon pertinent issues in a poignant way.

The film is a mix of three stories — Akku, Ammachi Yemba Nenapu and Puttammatte Mattu Mommagalu. The film follows the trials and tribulations of a bunch of women who live in a hamlet. Ammachi is a carefree girl, who aims on prioritising her happiness over societal pressures. There is Akku, a mentally unstable woman, who yearns for love and belonging. There is young Sita, who just wants to live a happy childhood, but is forced to see things in a more grown up perspective because of all the happenings around her. And then there is Puttammatte, a character that you instantly fall in love with.

The setting, visuals and background score ensure that one is transported into this quaint little hamlet. The performances are top notch, as the casting is perfect. Be it the young children or even supporting cast who come for a few scenes, everyone fits his or her part like a glove. The music is soothing. The narrative of the film discusses gender politics, but in a subtle way and this is what makes it all the more relevant today.

Ammachi Yemba Nenapu is a film that unfolds at its own pace and has some really intense moments. It is definitely one of the better films to have released this year.