Review of "Nayanthara Beyond the Fairy Tale": A Carefully Crafted Yet Unfulfilling Journey
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Nayanthara, affectionately known as Nayan, shares her life's journey and acting career in the documentary "Nayanthara Beyond the Fairy Tale," now streaming on Netflix India. She hopes to inspire hope and happiness through her story. After a long wait, fans can finally delve into the life of the 'Lady Superstar.'
From Humble Beginnings to Stardom
Nayanthara's journey from Thiruvalla, a small town in Kerala, to becoming a leading figure in South Indian cinema is nothing short of a fairytale. Despite facing challenges, such as body shaming during the release of AR Murugadoss’s "Ghajini" in 2005, she persevered. Producer Pushpa Kandasamy aptly notes how the industry seeks to exploit vulnerabilities, yet Nayanthara's resilience and determination led her to stardom. The documentary features insights from celebrities like Nagarjuna, Rana Daggubati, Tamannaah Bhatia, and others who attest to her strength.
Navigating Love and Challenges
The documentary, directed by Amith Krishnan, lightly touches upon her personal relationships and the two-year hiatus (2011-13) before her triumphant return. Nayanthara candidly discusses the scrutiny she faced, stating, “More than love, it was about trust.” Despite her personal setbacks, she emerged stronger, highlighting her decision to leave the industry in 2011 due to personal reasons.
The documentary also explores her relationship with director Vignesh Shivan, which began in 2015. The narrative includes perspectives from Vignesh Shivan, Vijay Sethupathi, director Atlee, and others, painting a picture of love and partnership. The story culminates in their marriage and family life, portraying a 'happily ever after' ending.
However, the documentary feels like a glossy film that skirts the complexities of Nayanthara’s journey. It hints at challenges but doesn’t delve deeply into them, leaving viewers wanting more. As Vignesh Shivan says to Nayanthara, “There’s always a challenge that’s testing us.” While the documentary showcases her triumphs, it misses the intricacies that shaped her path.
For a tale meant to inspire, "Nayanthara Beyond the Fairy Tale" leaves an incomplete impression. It celebrates a female actor’s resilience and success, but its superficial treatment of her journey and relationships is a letdown. Yet, it remains a testament to her strength and ability to carve her own path.
"Nayanthara Beyond the Fairy Tale" is available now on Netflix India.