Amal

While the film unfolds in a simple narrative, complex themes concerning wealth and power in India are presented from a Western point of view. Amal, a character who's oblivious to concepts of greed and control, and subject to notions entrenched within Hindu doctrine, has accepted his duty in the world. Every incident and character in this film reflects his attitude, and shows the friction that this type of attitude can generate.

Visual Treatment

Amal was shot in New Delhi, India, in December 2003. While the style of the film is gritty and real, the story is a fable, and the realism will emphasize the power of the fable.

Since it follows the life of an autorickshaw driver, the visual style of the film reflects the bustle of the streets of the chaotic capital in a guerilla-style. Saturated colours reflecting the sun-soaked country, and dirty, gritty environments juxtaposed with images of Amal doing his job, his duty, and meeting colourful characters drives the story, and the theme of beauty and harmony driving a place as spiritual as India.

Sound Treatment

The sound also reflects the fast paced environment of New Delhi, mixing in real location sounds of autorickshaws, crowds, and activity. The music is a beautiful mix of Indian-cultures. Since Amal is a Punjabi-born driver, his theme will derive from Punjabi music. A choral element representing Amal's rickshaw, and his love of his duty, will juxtapose with the often grim reality of India - that money is an issue in everyone's life, as they strive for riches and resources. A character like Amal, oblivious to the concept of greed, navigates through this unpleasantness and holds onto what is important to him. The music reflects this perseverance. A cross between traditional instruments such as tabla, the santoor, and flute, mixed with modern elements such as synthesizers also bridges the gap between traditional and modern beliefs presented in the film.