Review : Beautiful amalgamation of technology and emotions : ‘Rocketry : The Nambi Effect’!
In recent times plenty of biopics have hit the silver screen, the latest to ‘land’ is in that ‘space’ is Rocketry : The Nambi effect based on the life of a former scientist and aerospace engineer of ISRO, Nambi Narayanan who spearheaded our space programme with his invention of inexpensive space engine. Though he is considered a genius, Nambi Narayanan’s life has seen unprecedented ups and downs. One of the most talented artistes R Madhavan has debuted as a director with this film and his sincerity is evident while watching the movie. In fact he’s been credited to the story too and barring technical jargon common viewers will enjoy the film. The technical language has been used for authenticity and the director holds attention of viewers while narrating the story. Surprisingly so far no one thought of narrating this story of an Indian scientist. R Madhavan plays the central character with aplomb.
Rocketry : The Nambi Effect goes to and fro through flashbacks. It begins with Nambi’s (R Madhavan), one of the most skilled ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) scientist, house in Thiruvananthapuram celebrating his success but it’s short lived as he’s arrested on espionage charges. He is accused of selling rocket secrets to our enemy country Pakistan while having an affair with a Maldivian girl. He is tortured and is forced to accede to the investigating officer’s demands. But as Nambi is innocent he doesn’t relent. In fact he had refused a lucrative offer of NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) to serve his country develop it’s own rocket engine. Cut to 19 years later an old but dignified Nambi Narayanan is being interviewed by India’s biggest superstar Shahrukh Khan. Through a series of flashbacks he narrates the ordeal he had to go through and he and his family being humiliated. Shahrukh Khan, who plays himself, apologises to Mr Narayanan on behalf of the country.
The first half of the film is full of Physics terms and most of the part is in English. For a few it may be a tad heavy but that was required to establish the subject at hand. But it does have a few lighter moments too. Second part is full of emotions and is quite gripping. Though it’s shown that Nambi is being tortured by some corrupt officials, their real identity is not divulged. Maybe revealing their names could have given them an unnecessary glory. The film lacks pace at places but the sincerity in narration doesn’t make it boring. Madhavan’s quadruple responsibility of writing, producing, directing and acting requires applause. His direction may not be impeccable but he scores high in that department. Sirisha Ray’s cinematography is excellent. Music is good but background score helps uplift the scenes.
As Nambi Narayanan R Madhavan carries the character from 29 years to 72 years ably. He has excelled and has done a spectacular job. He is well supported by Simran, who plays Nambi’s wife Meena Narayanan. She shines despite limited screen time. Sam Mohan too catches eye with his performance. Others, including Rajit Kapoor (Vikram Sarabhai), Karthik Kumar (CBI Officer P M Nayar), lend good support. Shahrukh Khan’s presence adds browny points to the film and his 12-13 min cameo is endearing, especially the last emotional scene.
One-man army R Madhavan’s Rocketry : The Nambi Effect is definitely a one time watch.
***1/2
Keerti Kadam.
