Modern Masters: SS Rajamouli is a documentary on Netflix that offers a comprehensive exploration of the life and career of the acclaimed Indian filmmaker, SS Rajamouli, known for bringing movies like Bahubali and RRR to the screen. The film pays tribute to his significant contributions to Indian cinema through interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and personal anecdotes.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Language: English
Genre: Documentary
Director: Tanvi Ajinkya & Raghav Khanna
Starring: S.S. Rajamouli, James Cameron, Prabhas, and others
Runtime: 74 minutes
Streaming on: Netflix
The Journey of a Master Storyteller
Rise of a Visionary
The documentary begins with the exhilarating screening of Rajamouli’s blockbuster RRR at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, capturing the audience’s enthusiastic reactions. This sets the stage for a deep dive into the director’s career, highlighting his journey from the Telugu film industry to global fame. Interviews with actors such as Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, NTR, and Ram Charan provide insights into Rajamouli’s meticulous nature and dedication to his craft.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Viewers are given a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the making of Rajamouli’s epic films, including Baahubali and RRR. The documentary showcases the massive scale of production, the intricate details of set designs, and the innovative visual effects that have become hallmarks of his films. It also highlights the technical brilliance and emotional depth that Rajamouli brings to his storytelling.
What Makes Rajamouli Unique?
A Family Affair
Rajamouli’s filmmaking is a family affair, with contributions from his father, V. Vijayendra Prasad (screenwriter), his wife, Rama Rajamouli (costume designer), and his cousin, M. M. Keeravani (music composer). The documentary explores how this close-knit family supports and collaborates with Rajamouli, making his cinematic vision a reality.
Epic Themes
Rajamouli’s films are deeply rooted in Indian mythology and history, yet they have a universal appeal. The documentary delves into his unique interpretation of these themes and characters, revealing how he blends grand spectacle with emotional narratives. His ability to create larger-than-life heroes while maintaining relatable stories is a testament to his storytelling prowess.
Highlights and Drawbacks
Highlights:
- Insightful Interviews: The documentary features candid interviews with Rajamouli, his family, and industry colleagues, offering a comprehensive view of his journey.
- Exclusive Footage: Behind-the-scenes glimpses from the sets of Baahubali and RRR showcase the massive effort involved in creating these blockbusters.
- Balanced Perspective: While celebrating Rajamouli’s achievements, the documentary doesn’t shy away from discussing his challenges and the controversies surrounding his films.
Drawbacks:
- Surface-Level Exploration: The documentary could have delved deeper into Rajamouli’s creative process and filmmaking techniques.
- Lack of Critical Analysis: A more balanced critique of his films, acknowledging strengths and weaknesses, would have provided a nuanced perspective.
Final Verdict:
Modern Masters: SS Rajamouli is a must-watch documentary for fans of Rajamouli’s films and anyone interested in filmmaking. Despite minor shortcomings, the documentary successfully captures the essence of Rajamouli’s visionary approach and his impact on global cinema.
Have you watched this documentary? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Get your fix of the latest updates, reviews, box office collections, comparisons, and exclusive sneak peeks at Hitflik. The ultimate source for everything cinematic!
