Exploring Diverse Storytellers: Unique Perspectives in International Cinema and OTT Platforms

In the realm of international cinema, diverse storytellers continually push the boundaries of narrative and aesthetic expression, bringing unique perspectives and rich cultural tapestries to the forefront. These global creators, be they directors, writers, or producers, often traverse cultural barriers, crafting tales that resonate universally while being deeply rooted in their localized contexts. The works transcend cultural specifics, offering Western audiences a glimpse into the complexities and nuances of different lives being lived in different parts of the world.

There are people working with the craft to induce entertainment in the industry, but then there are the ones that work for things more than just the experience of a movie/ series can offer. With the diversification of the nuances of exploration in this regard, further exploited by the need for almost everyone to induce a kind of a "thinking mechanism", it becomes difficult to actually find something that touches your chord and makes you think, if not maybe for weeks, but days. The global reach and impact of these thought-provoking works underscore the importance of diverse voices in cinema, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the shared human experience across cultures.

Thought-provoking films and television series serve as powerful conduits for addressing social issues and the human condition, often providing a mirror through which societies can examine and understand complex themes. Across various cultures, global media delves into multifaceted topics such as poverty, injustice, mental health, and human rights, each narrative uniquely shaped by the cultural context of its creators. But then, there is more to it. Something that induces the feeling of being lost, feeling of not able to find the things you are looking for - and sometimes, not even being aware about what you are looking for. It is a very personal experience for anyone. Global platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ play a pivotal role in amplifying these narratives, making it available for us to transcend the boundaries of our everyday thinking. They leave you in an awe, and what not. Some of the notable recommendations that I had the privilege to explore in the past few weeks are given for a reference here. But, to be very honest, the list can never get completed.

1. Barzakh - Pakistan

A fantasy drama from the director Asim Abbasi, it is based on Pakistani folklore. The aesthetic and cinematic experience of seeing this series turn episode after episode into something that intertwines in itself so much, that you are left with no idea of where to start making a sense of it all, the depiction by the writer and the director is compelling. It entices you to see it all without telling you much and with each episode you are bound by nothing but your sheer willingness to watch it, and continue doing the same that makes it what it is. The location reminded me of something that I had a habitual eye for in Abbas Kiarostami's films, and I could gather nothing but patience, to see it all and let me be a witness of this fable. Go watch for yourself for free on Youtube!

2. Manjummel Boys - India

Based on a true story and becoming the highest grossing Malayalam film ever, it is definitely a 'goose-bumps giving experience' in itself. The thin line between the stories and the reality of it all, and as to what happened to the one fellow that went through it all, it will make you think about so many things that surround us and yet are left ignored by us. Please don't miss this masterpiece of a film. Also, shout out to the writer and the cinematographer for generating the kind of experience that makes a lasting impact on you long after you have finished this masterpiece of a film. Watch the trailer of this suspense - thriller here!

3. Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life - India

The direction by Blessy and the acting by Prithviraj Sukumaran, I don't have words to describe how it made me think when I watched a man struggle for his identity and survival in a place where he can't even communicate or understand anything - knowing that it happened to someone in real life. You can do nothing but feel the helplessness of this man, the struggle of him and the stupidity that comes with sheer simple-mindedness (and not like he is dumb, he is just plain and straightforward, not cunning). This was a cinematic experience to watch in the theatre, but is now available on Netflix. Go give it a try and lemme know if it didn't make you feel uncomfortable even once, being wherever you were, watching it. Find the trailer here!

4. Better Days - China

I actually stumbled upon it accidentally, and when I still think of this film, I go into the deep abyss of my "feeling processes". It makes you not only watch and think but leaves you with so many feelings, it's heavy. Directed by Kwok Cheung Tsang and based on a novel "In his youth, In her beauty" by Jiu Yuexi, the story follows two young individuals, their struggles for survival and their companionship that goes beyond words, so much more than words. The excellent background score still runs in my brain's background, and let's me say this - if you have ever been a lover, you cannot miss this one. See the trailer here! 

5. Maharaja - India

Oh what a fantastic movie with great acting and ending twists so prominent, this one is a movie I enjoyed for the sheer art of writing. It unfolds beautifully, being written and directed by Nithilan Swaminathan and Vijay Sethupati in the titular role is spectacular and critically acclaimed for the same. It's gripping to the very end, and even being a revenge - action - blood shedding film that it is, this one touches the chord like anything. It induces the idea and ponder upon the facts of what a man shows and what he really is. Find the trailer of this thriller - suspense here! 

So what are you waiting for? The list is ready, just grab some popcorn, a little bit of your free mind and sometime and just start!