Krishand has established himself as one of Malayalam cinema's most inventive voices, and Sungsuvinte Sangarsha Ghadana (The Art of Warfare) is the current pinnacle of his filmography. Although his previous films and series sensitively addressed a range of social topics, this one goes one step further by fusing genre norms with a deep philosophical investigation.
Although calling the movie a criminal thriller might seem suitable at first, such a phrase hardly sums it up. Rather, it is a sophisticated reflection on morality, human struggle, and the interdependence of all emotions, all depicted with the striking brushstrokes of violence.
Setting the Tone: Violence as Art
Krishand establishes the mood of the movie right away with the first annihilation scene, giving viewers a vivid idea of the subjects that will be explored. In addition to shocking, the scene acts as an artistic precursor, implying that violence is cyclical and has been a motivating factor throughout human history. The protagonist and antagonist are portrayed as two sides of the same coin—Yin and Yang—as the story shifts between the past and the present. Viewers alternatively identify with and question both characters as a result of the skillful interweaving of this contradiction.
Another level of complexity is added by Krishand's usage of Sun Tzu's 'The Art of War' as a conceptual foundation. The story incorporates lessons from the ancient/modern masterpiece on tactics, which act as both a cause and an explanation for the events that are taking place. These philosophical asides challenge viewers to consider the possibility that what they take for granted may be a facade. By experimenting with this ambiguity, Krishand challenges viewers to consider their presumptions and face the disconcerting truth that comprehension is frequently a delusion.
The Art of Deception: A Globalized Perspective
Sungsuvinte Sangarsha Ghadana is unique because of its universal appeal. The director makes connections between historical horrors, such as Napoleon's wars and the bombings in Palestine, and the characters struggles. These allusions highlight a somber reality: globalisation entangles human misery, emotions, and conflicts in addition to economics and technology. This theme is skillfully incorporated into the script, transforming the movie from a local tale into a global meditation on humanity's never-ending state of conflict. The visual and tonal style of the movie reflects this global viewpoint. In order to convey the desolation of war, Krishand uses a painterly style in his cinematography, utilizing subdued hues and sharp contrasts. Each scene's emotional impact is increased by the immersive environment created by the use of lighting, shadow, and color grading. The visuals also act as a homage to Hong Kong cinema.
Music as Narrative: A Sonic Masterpiece
One of the film’s standout elements is its music. Carefully composed, the background music enhances the story and produces a powerful visual experience. The score's careful and intentional placement heightens the suspense at pivotal sections and relieves it during slower ones. The use of contrasting lyrics in two pivotal songs is particularly noteworthy. The duality of the main conflict in the movie is reflected in these songs, which are opposites of one another. This interplay of music and narrative demonstrates a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in contemporary Malayalam cinema. The music department doesn’t simply complement the visuals; it becomes a character in its own right, guiding the audience through the film’s labyrinthine moral and philosophical landscape. The end effect is an artistically sound big-screen experience that appeals to a wide audience.
Breaking Stereotypes: Women in Malayalam Cinema
Krishand’s approach to character development is another aspect that deserves praise. The role of a female police officer in Malayalam films is frequently reduced to a stereotypical one, either excessively aggressive or too ornamental to be significant. Krishand breaks this stereotype in Sungsuvinte Sangarsha Ghadana by portraying a complex female police officer who is not just intelligent and resourceful but also approachable and grounded. This figure is a natural embodiment of strength and leadership, not just a token feminist statement. Her role as a leader within the narrative feels natural, avoiding the pitfalls of heavy-handed messaging. Krishand's capacity to question social norms without using overt didacticism is demonstrated by this nuanced approach to feminism.
A Shoutout to Manoj Kana
National Award-winning director Manoj Kana’s performance as a hardened, no-nonsense cop is another highlight of the film. Kana, who is well-known for his masterful directing, is just as skilled in front of the camera, giving a rough yet captivating performance. His performance adds levels of humor and interest to the movie's law enforcement plotline. The cast's combined efforts, as well as Kana's performance, highlight how collaborative Krishand's filmmaking is. Regardless of the amount of screen time, each performer contributes to the overall coherence of the movie by fitting in perfectly with the plot.
Kodamazha Suni and Gang vs. The Newbies
At its core, the film pits the old guard, represented by Kodamazha Suni and his gang, against a new generation of characters. This struggle explores issues of tradition vs. modernity, loyalty versus betrayal, and individual ambition versus group responsibility, acting as a microcosm for broader societal tensions. Through this generational conflict, Krishand delves further into issues of heritage and identity. Can we choose a fresh course for the future, or are we destined to make the same mistakes we have in the past? The movie challenges viewers to face these issues head-on rather than providing simple solutions.
A New Horizon for Malayalam Cinema
Sungsuvinte Sangarsha Ghadana is a statement rather than merely a movie. By fusing genre norms with philosophical nuance and technical mastery, Krishand challenges the limits of what Malayalam film is capable of. The picture exhibits a maturity that is uncommon in popular cinema by rejecting the dichotomies of good against evil, hero vs. villain, or right vs. wrong. This is not to imply that the movie is flawless. Viewers who like simple storylines may find its ambition overwhelming, and the complex layering of concepts may seem dense at first. But for those who are prepared to confront its complexity, these seeming drawbacks are also what makes the movie a satisfying viewing experience.
Conclusion: A Cinematic Triumph
Krishand’s Sungsuvinte Sangarsha Ghadana (The Art of Warfare) is a bold, thought-provoking exploration of human conflict and morality. By drawing from Sun Tzu’s teachings, global historical events, and deeply personal character arcs, the film transcends the revenge crime thriller genre to become a profound cultural artifact. With its meticulous craftsmanship, from music to cinematography, and its nuanced approach to storytelling, the film sets a new standard for Malayalam cinema. Krishand’s vision, coupled with standout performances from the cast, ensures that this film will be remembered as a turning point in Indian cinema’s evolution. In Sungsuvinte Sangarsha Ghadana, Krishand doesn’t just tell a story—he holds up a mirror to the world, reflecting its beauty, brutality, and boundless complexity.
(The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.)