His parents who run a zoo decide to move to Winnipeg, Canada in light of the disturbing times in India and plan to sell the animals off in North America to start a new life. They start their journey on the same ship which carries their zoo animals. But unfortunately they hit bad waters and the ship sinks but somehow Pi finds himself on a boat with an injured Zebra, a Hyena and a Bengal Tiger. Rest of the story of how Pi survives a record 227 days after a ship-wreck is suppose to make you believe in God. Suppose to, mind it. He also offers a parallel story as people don't believe him. But doesn't seem to mind as the outcome is the same.
Irrfan Khan plays the grown up Pi who narrates the story to a writer seeking an enlightening adventure. He is brilliant as usual and there should be no doubts why Ang Lee chose him. His skills play a very important role in movie as they force you to believe the ultra-strange narrative of Pi. And this convincing narration is coupled with the mind-blowing visual landscapes envisaged by the visionary director Ang Lee. We all remember the stunning visuals of Avatar. Time has come to replace them with Ang Lee's version of flying fishes, algae island and mirror like waters. The sea has never looked more beautiful, mysterious and horrifying at the same time.
Those who have read the book would be disappointed as the movie accommodates so less from it. Yes, not everything can be shown in the flick but Ang Lee seemed to have missed the much relevant parts as well. Have to give credit to him though because not many people can engage the audience for long given that they only have a lean-man and a tiger at their disposal. The movie is gripping enough in the making but the end part will disappoint many as it leaves a big question mark behind. The movie is all about belief and faith which might be the very essence of our lives but not many people give a damn about it these days. You keep on waiting for the awe moment and the build up forces you to do that. But ultimately, its plain KLPD!
If you are going anyway, watch it with the third dimension.
