“The closer the graph between cinema and literature, the better Indian cinema will be” – Acclaimed Filmmaker Mani Ratnam at 55th IFFI
“The closer the graph between cinema and literature, the better Indian cinema will be” – Acclaimed Filmmaker Mani Ratnam at 55th IFFI
#IFFIWood, 22 November 2024
Legendary filmmaker Mani Ratnam captivated audiences at a Masterclass on “Transforming Literary Masterpieces into Engaging Films” during the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). In an insightful conversation with another renowned Indian film director Gautham V. Menon, Ratnam delved into the art of adapting literature into cinema, offering valuable advices for filmmakers and cinephiles alike.
“I am still a person sitting in the audience,” Ratnam humbly remarked, reflecting his lifelong curiosity and passion for storytelling. Despite being a maestro of filmmaking, he stated, “In many ways, I still feel like a beginner.”
Mani Ratnam highlighted the deep connection between cinema and literature, asserting that “the closer the graph between cinema and literature, the better Indian cinema will be.” He emphasized that filmmakers must hone the delicate art of transforming written words into compelling visual narratives.
Bringing Literature to Life on Screen
Discussing the nuances of adapting books into films, Ratnam explained, “Films are a visual medium, while books are mainly imaginative. A filmmaker must be extra cautious in bringing a reader’s imagination to life.” He noted that while scripts may need adjustments, these changes should enhance the story rather than alter its core essence.
Mani Ratnam also shared how mythology and ancient Indian history have influenced his perspective, enabling him to approach characters in unique ways. He commented on the challenges of adapting flowery literary language into a cinematic script, while still ensuring actors can perform naturally with the script.
Discussing about his recent magnum opus ‘Ponniyin Selvan’, which is adapted from Kalki Krishnamurthy’s iconic 1955 novel by the same name, Mani Ratnam shed light on how the film had to depict the Chola period but all the remnants of that period in Tanjavur were already lost to time. As he did not want to create elaborate sets, he took the liberty of shooting the movie in the north of India and converted the architecture there to make it resemble architecture of the Cholas.
Films as a Collaborative Art
Underlining the collaborative nature of cinema, Ratnam remarked, “As a director, my job is to bring every person in the film, be it an actor or a crew member- to a focal point together.”
The Masterclass provided an enriching experience to the audience, with Ratnam urging young filmmakers to take creative liberties thoughtfully. He also asked them to preserve the original spirit of a book while giving it their unique creative spin for adaptations.
This Masterclass was a testament to the filmmaker’s mastery and humility, and offered great valuable lessons to all the aspiring storytellers in the audience on how to bridge the two worlds of literature and cinema.