Aparajito (1956) by Satyajit Ray — Movie Discussion
Details
Indian director Satyajit Ray had not planned to make a sequel to Pather Panchali, but after the film’s international success, he decided to continue Apu’s narrative. Aparajito (অপরাজিত) picks up where the first film leaves off, with Apu and his family having moved away from the country to live in the bustling holy city of Varanasi (then known as Benares). As Apu progresses from wide-eyed child to intellectually curious teenager, eventually studying in Kolkata (Calcutta), we witness his academic and moral education, as well as the growing complexity of his relationship with his mother. This wonderfully well-observed and deeply moving work, rendered with Ray’s characteristic warmth, humour, and poetry, not only extends but also spiritually deepens the tale of Apu. The film won the top three prizes at the 1957 Venice Film Festival, including the Golden Lion.
"Embodied through the maturation of Apu at the turn of the century, Ray creates an insightful social commentary on a profoundly changing culture." (MUBI)
“More perceptive than any other study of adolescence that I know.” (The Story of Cinema)
"As you watch, that thing we call artistry melts away in the service of something both greater and more fragile." (Village Voice)
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Let's discuss Aparajito (Bengali: অপরাজিত, or "The Unvanquished") directed, written, and produced by the acclaimed Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray, recently voted the 290th greatest movie of all time in Sight & Sound's international survey of filmmakers. The movie is a sequel to Pather Panchali (1955), which we discussed one year ago. You don't have to watch Pather Panchali before seeing this one however, as Aparajito also works as a standalone film.
Please watch the movie in advance. Bring your thoughts, reactions, and queries about the movie to share with us at the meeting.
You can stream it here (check the settings in the player for subtitles and to adjust quality) or rent it on various platforms online (for best quality.)
Check out other film discussions in the group every Friday and occasionally other days.