The world of cinema is infinite and there are many things that pass off without our knowledge. However, here is one attempt by a man who has not only shown his dedication to this art but has set a precedent that there are still those passionate individuals who give meaning to the pursuance of what they like. He is N Gopalakrishna better known as ‘Lakshmanarekha’ Gopalakrishna. A noted writer and director, he has the credit of introducing Jayasudha to the world of cinema through his film ‘Lakshmanarekha’. Now, he has come up with the book titled ‘Pioneers Of Indian Cinema’, let us have a look.
This is a compilation of almost all the key factors and moments that defined and shaped up cinema. Right from the time of its birth, Gopalakrishna has collated some intricate details and facts which are usually not available even through the giant internet search engines. A pattern has been followed wherein the book begins with the outline of cinema, where it was born and how it began to grow from a silent still picture to a motion picture and then to a feature film.
Eventually, the book also takes the reader through the origin of Indian cinema and how some stalwarts have contributed in their own way to nurture the art. The author has also taken pains to get into finer details such as the first song in history and some of the iconic moments which turned the future of entertainment. These are few fine points which would not be available in any technological tool that we have today. On the other hand, information is provided on regional cinema, the various circuits and how they emerged along with the icons and star celebrities that ruled.
Midway in the book, the author puts a special focus on south cinema and reveals about the first south Indian actor to enter the north Indian circuit. He pinpoints on the developments in cinema technology and has given an indepth insight into how few small things brought a huge difference. Attention has been given to few milestone moments in cinema history and an exclusive chapter is dedicated to the firsts in Indian cinema.
The book also gives an insight into the chronology of the international film festivals and it is the facts and details which are compiled in a single chapter that appeals to the reader. As it reaches the end, the book also reveals how Indian cinema can be a role model to the western world and what the world can learn from India through the medium of cinema. Stress has been made on the need for children’s films and what were the significant moments in that area.
Overall, the book follows a simple but friendly style of narration and more than the effective presentation, it is the content which is rich and the depth of information it provides. Given the coverage of history in it, the book can never grow old and at any given point, it can act as a reference to those seeking knowledge about cinema. Aptly titled as ‘The Pioneers of Indian Cinema’, the author has done justice to it and with legible script and fair amount of pages, more than sufficient details have been given. This is a sure shot buy from the stands!!
