It tells the inspiring story of three Tamil survivors of Sri Lanka's civil war. Sundaram, a man grieving the loss of his pregnant wife, Kasthuri, a militant's widow and an orphaned teenager, all embrace their shared trauma and find hope for a better future after the war ended in 2009.
The film opens with a powerful, haunting scene that depicts the harsh realities of refugee life. However, the story quickly shifts to February 2012, focusing on a young autistic girl in a rehabilitation camp in Sundaram, Kasthuri and Kilinochchi. Determined to move forward, they seek employment with the help of an acquaintance named Bala. Their journey reflects the hardships of post-war life, from job discrimination to poverty and the lingering effects of PTSD. Despite these challenges, the characters are determined to maintain their dignity and faith, with Kasthuri especially refusing financial aid in the face of hardship.
The film shines in its depiction of the resilience and determination of survivors. It provides a nuanced look at how the Tamil community struggles after the civil war, while also revealing prejudices within the community. The survivors are not only rejected by the government, but also face challenges from their own people. The story effectively conveys that the trauma of war extends beyond the battlefield.
While Alone Palm Tree deals with deep, emotional themes, it works with an understated approach that can feel slow at times. Nevertheless, the film's realism and raw depiction of survival provide a powerful reflection on the lasting scars of war. Language Barriers is a thought-provoking and positive portrayal of human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
A thoughtful but unflinching portrayal of war survivors
Actors: Puthiavan Rasiya, Navayuga Gukaraja, Ajathika Puthiavan, Perumal Kasi, Noorjagan, Jagan Manickam
Director: Puthiavan Rasaiya
