Set against the backdrop of India's struggle for independence in the late 1930s, director Santosh Sivan's period melodrama is a Merchant-Ivory production, which means that it's visually impressive, well-mannered, and high-minded. Yet, despite a potentially promising dramatic arc, the film is curiously emotionally tepid, like an episode of Masterpiece Theatre that has somehow migrated to the big screen. The story centers on a married Indian housemaid named Sajani (Nandita Das), who is having an affair with her married employer, British spice entrepreneur Henry Moores (Linus Roache). Caught in the middle is the Englishman's Indian assistant, T.K. Neelan (Rahul Bose), who not only serves as Moores' liaison with local villagers, but must also try to conceal Sajani's infidelity from both her husband and her father. Ultimately, a tragedy (followed by an attempted cover-up) will force the aide to make a choice between loyalty towards his employer or support for the increasingly popular independence movement. Unfortunately, Before the Rains is more decorous (even in the love scenes) than involving, resulting in a timid treatment of an explosive subject. Optional. [Note: DVD extras include audio commentary by director Santosh Sivan and star Linus Roache, and trailers. Bottom line: a small extras package for a visually impressive but disappointingly inert drama.] (F. Swietek)
Before the Rains
Lionsgate, 98 min., in English & Malayalam w/English subtitles, PG-13, DVD: $27.98, Sept. 16 Volume 23, Issue 5
Before the Rains
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: