Beautiful - symbolism notwithstanding

Rating: 8/10 (15 January 2015)

The movie introduced the audience to the amazingly introspective world of the Indian youth Pi by showing a picturesque colonial India and in a narrative interjected with the humour of that era. Spectators were drawn into the interesting and enchanting journey of the main protagonist as he went in search of faith, as he dealt with campus bullying and as he trod lightly on the path of love. All this but to set the scene for Pi's fight for survival as he embarked on the magical trip afloat on the treacherous seas after the tragic shipwreck. The sheer vastness and despair of this one youth combating the elements amidst endless waters was heartrending. Disregarding the intriguing symbolism of the tiger, Pi's efforts to turn foe to partner by following the survival guidebook were amusing. As always, one could expect astounding visual effects with Ang Lee's productions - his light plays, the flying fish "stampede", the whale's fluorescent dance, the Fantasia of night sea creatures, the carnivorous oasis, etc. - were filmed to impress, and impress they did. Some found the "real-life" version a disillusion and, like the writer, started interpreting all scenes anew (men the ultimate carnivores, the vegetarian's killing spree and cannibalism, learning to face one's inner demons, etc. ) - but that, to me, would be denuding this wonderful production of its enchanting quality. Enjoy the show, I say, and forget the metaphors.