open hearts open minds presents
In the Beginning
a film by Prabu Muruganantham
“In the Beginning” is a short fiction that tells the story of a young man of color – newly released from US prison – who returns to society with the hope of beginning a new life. He discovers on his solitary journey that the world sees him only as his crime.
The topic of the film is close to our hearts—some of the actors in this film have experienced incarceration in Oregon prisons themselves.
KXRW interviews some of the cast and crew. Hear stories about post prison life and some ignition points of the project.
Movies can be viewed as integral to the entertainment industry, while art serves as a conduit for contemplation and awe, fostering deep reflection in the audience. The latter, however, is a pursuit typically undertaken by select segments of society, diverging from mainstream engagement, akin to fields such as literature and philosophy. Themes encompassing societal issues, individual struggles, the nature of existence, and the mysteries of the universe are contemplations reserved for a discerning few, sparking theoretical musings.
The film delves into these profound inquiries and philosophical explorations. In the initial scenes, a glimmer of hope emerges when granted parole, only to be rebuffed by the judicial system, churches, family, and friends. Despite the core tenet of Christian faith emphasizing mercy, deemed as “undeserved compassion,” man-made laws stand in contradiction to Christ’s teachings, as even a priest asserts an inability to defy the law. The narrative tackles social dilemmas surrounding inmates seeking meaningful employment, disparities in incarceration, and poverty. A redemptive act unfolds as he allocates his prison earnings to a woman with a child, symbolizing a modest personal redemption.
For the protagonist, the world is an expansive prison, juxtaposed against the brilliance of the surrounding world. Love, in its laughter at all, contends with the rigid laws of men insistent on asserting their dominance. In the dog, he perceives boundless kindness, advocating that the essence of love lies in selflessness. The film adeptly portrays the psychology of rejection, capturing the myriad emotions individuals undergo when confronted with dismissal.
A central theme emerges, questioning the dichotomy between mercy and nature, asserting their inherent incompatibility. The film unfolds like the unfolding world witnessed at birth, traversing diverse landscapes—water, treetops, modern structures, churches, and exquisite sculptures—instilling a sense of fear. The commendable cinematography employs wide angles, emotional sequences, the enchantment of natural light, and fluid camera movements, contributing to the film’s visual richness.
– Vivek Subramanian
Thank you to our generous program partners
