I am Kalam Movie Review – Delightfully Refreshing

Posted by admin on Aug 14th, 2011 | 0 comments

‘I am Kalam’ is the third children’s film this year that presents the story of underprivileged children in an interesting manner. Directed by Nila Madhab Panda, this refreshing movie tells the story of a deprived child, who plays a signifying role in the raising the quality of life of the less privileged children across the globe.

Story of I am Kalam:

Born in a family that is sinking in abject poverty, Chhotu (Harsh Mayar) a clever boy with a zing for life, is not cowed by the dismal conditions around him. In order to fend for his family, the boy works in roadside food stall during the day, and in the evenings, spends his time reading books that he manages to purchase with the earnings. He has a dream of creating his own destiny and rising above the circumstances that he is in.

One day, Chhotu happens to meet a local prince (Hussan Saad). The impoverished child is impressed at the sight of the crisp tie worn by the prince. The prince on the contrary, is interested in the camel that the pauper has. A friendship develops between the two and they defy the so-called barriers of class and status much to the amusement of others in the village

One fine day, on hearing a speech from the former president of India, Dr. Abdul Kalam, Chottu decides to change his future. From that day onward, the boy decides to drop the name ‘Chhotu’ a term used to refer to many child labors across the country and adopts a new alias called ‘Kalam’. Taking a cue from the president, the boy decides to become a hero some day. He is helped in his endeavor by his friend, the prince.

What works in I am Kalam:

A beautiful film in every manner, it touches topics like child abuse, child labor, and poverty in a sensitive yet effective manner without being too stark or depressing. By giving the proceedings a fairy tale touch, the movie tends to be quite entertaining rather than a drab documentary. The message, without being preachy, is loud and clear. As an inspirational movie, it is surely going to touch the chord of the viewer.

What does not work in I am Kalam:

Though the writing and the execution is fantastic, things go slightly unrealistic when Chotu goes to Delhi and his friends and family trace him rather easily in the crowded city. But other than that, there is nothing seemingly wrong in the film.

Performances in I am Kalam:

Gulshan Grover is tops and the French actor Beatrice Ordeix is so unassuming and effortlessly natural. Pitobash and Meena Mir also fit their roles to the T. The film however, belongs to the two gems, the child actors Hussan Saad and Harsh Mayar who come up with performances that deserve two rounds of applause. Harsh, as the protagonist is quite adorable.

Conclusion: I am Kalam is quite inspiring, a must-watch movie!

Ratings: ****1/2