Siddiq Paravoor’s The Land of Solomon is a poignant exploration of the human spirit and the enduring power of identity, belonging and the value of one’s roots. The movie follows Solomon who, with unwavering determination, resists selling his ancestral land and home, despite being torn between this connection and his love for his wife Clara and his son. The film could explore the complexities of their family dynamic, particularly the tension between Solomon’s attachment to his home and his love for his family.
The script is evocative, painting vivid pictures of the protagonist’s unwavering connection to his ancestral home. The film visually depicts Solomon’s deep-rooted connection to his ancestral home through dream sequences, flashbacks and symbolic imagery.
There are some unexpected twists, for example, the soothsayer’s revelation of Solomon’s past life as a king, which is a dramatic turning point in the film, introducing a supernatural element that adds depth and intrigue. Clara supports him through his journey where he connects with creatures from this realm and the other.
The Land of Solomon also brings to focus the trend of young people leaving their hometowns and countries in search of better opportunities. This migration often involves leaving behind aging parents, who may face a range of emotional and practical challenges as they adjust to life without their children. Solomon and Clara’s struggles make us acutely aware of the trend of young people migrating to foreign countries, placing immense pressure on their aging parents to sell their family homes and contribute financially to their new lives abroad. Clara is supportive but as a mother pushes Solomon to sacrifice their own security and comfort to support their son’s dreams, even if it means uprooting themselves from their familiar surroundings.
The cinematographer Jaleel Badusha’s work was a true art form. His shots were visually stunning, capturing the essence of the scene in a way that was both captivating and thought-provoking. The script was a masterpiece of storytelling. The scriptwriters, Suresh Nellikode and the director himself, crafted a narrative that was both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. The script was a masterpiece of storytelling. The writers’ attention to detail and character development created a world that felt both familiar and extraordinary.
A special mention must be made of Jose Gothuruth and Alex Thalupaddam who have incorporated folklore of Chavittu Nadakam, paying homage to its cultural heritage while also introducing these traditions to a wider audience. Chavittu Nadakam is a vibrant and colorful Latin Christian folk art form originating in Kerala, India, believed to have emerged after the arrival of Portuguese missionaries in the region. The elaborate performance is masterfully woven into the story, and the actors, dressed in vibrant, European-inspired costumes, deliver their lines in song impeccably.
While the main protagonists, Dr. Rajish Kumar as Solomon and Latha Das as Clara, are capable actors, their performances often feel one-dimensional. Despite the script’s potential for richer character development, the actors struggle to convey the depth and complexity of their characters. This is particularly evident in the dialogue, which often sounds forced or unnatural, likely due to the actors’ unfamiliarity with the English language. While there are moments of genuine emotion, the overall performances lack the nuance and authenticity necessary to truly connect with the audience. This, unfortunately, detracts from the overall movie experience.
Despite this shortcoming, The Land of Solomon is a worthwhile watch for those seeking a story of resilience and the enduring power of human connection. Paravoor’s ability to convey the protagonist’s deep-seated love for his home is commendable.
Sunitha Palaveettil is a dedicated film enthusiast with a lifelong passion for cinema. Immersed in the world of film, she appreciates the diverse range of cinematic experiences, from classic masterpieces to contemporary indie gems. For Sunitha, films serve as more than just entertainment; they offer a window into different cultures, inspire creativity, and spark thought-provoking discussions. Along with her husband, Giuseppe Rosato, Sunitha attends film festivals worldwide and maintains residences in Portugal, Italy, and Canada.
