‘Aparajito’ is the second film of director Satyajit Ray’s Apu series. The films from that trilogy are connected but standalone (you don’t have to watch all 3 and not necessary to watch them in order). The first film (Pather Panchali) covered the childhood of Apu from birth to the end of childhood as he undergoes a troubling childhood, ending in his father getting a job as a priest in Varanasi (Benares back then). This one picks up in Varanasi just after Apu and his parents move there. Apu comes of age in his growth from preteen into his teenage years, taken over by his intellectual curiosity to learn more about the world. His parents wanted him to become a priest to continue the generations’ long heritage, but he instead chose science, math, and knowledge. In his desire to follow his educational aspirations, he moves to Calcutta on a scholarship at an institution. His tragic challenges and bleak reality continue as he becomes distant, into his schooling world.

I believe this was better than ‘Pather Panchali’ because this had an actual, meticulous story. Simple but heartwarming, honest, and relatable. The filming style is very distinct and stays consistent throughout, like the beats of a fluttering butterfly. Other technicals include beautiful cinematography on the shores of the Ganges River and old Calcutta, marvelous acting, and sharp editing. The music by the legendary composer Ravi Shankar was timeless and ethereal, allowing you to feel it in perfect complement to the surreal realism. I found the opening shot exquisite, filmed partially from a boat along the shores of the Ganges. Within the swirls of breathtaking beauty lies the harsh darkness of reality.

Would I recommend this? Yes. The plot allows this film to be easy to follow, emotional, and engaging. It’s a film that you contemplate after you finish watching it. It’s an experience that I found remarkable. Much like Pather Panchali, this is a film of the human spirit.
8/10