In the ever-evolving landscape of mainstream cinema, films that bravely attempt to carve a new path often face the critical eye of audiences and critics alike. This scrutiny includes evaluating whether the film remains true to its ambitious themes while simultaneously resonating with the wider audience. When it comes to the portrayal of queer themes, particularly in Indian cinema, the stakes are high. These topics, despite their universal prevalence, are habitually pigeonholed as niche, and as such, a successful mainstream queer drama must overcome a series of challenges: it must accurately represent queer identities, engage the conventional gender-heteronormative viewer, and defy expectations of being relegated to melodramatic narratives. On all these fronts, Samyuktha Vijayan’s directorial debut, “Neela Nira Sooriyan” (translated as Blue Sunshine), stands tall as a significant contribution and a powerful breath of fresh air for Tamil queer cinema.
As the story unfolds, those familiar with European queer films might perceive “Neela Nira Sooriyan” as deceptively simple. The film narrates the journey of a teacher, assigned male at birth, who transitions to become a woman while navigating life in a conservative backdrop. Despite its seemingly straightforward narrative, Samyuktha Vijayan skillfully crafts a tapestry of lesser-explored themes within the realm of Tamil queer cinema, rendering the film a captivating watch. The opening sequence introduces Aravind (portrayed by Samyuktha Vijayan) on a deeply personal journey to become Bhanu. Aravind is shown practicing voice feminization, a process that underscores the film’s commitment to authenticity. In another instance, a subtle yet impactful moment is captured when Aravind, whose pronouns remain undefined during her transition, removes the binding on her chest to conceal breast formation, reflecting the struggle of maintaining a male-presenting facade in public. The thoughtfulness with which such delicate themes are articulated deserves commendation.
“Neela Nira Sooriyan” distinguishes itself with its rare setting in a rural area, bringing to life the unique stories found within Pollachi. The film is populated with authentic, memorable characters whose interactions with Bhanu are organic and impactful. Even the limited appearance of supporting characters serves to enrich the narrative, illustrating the diverse reactions to Bhanu’s transition. One poignant dynamic is Bhanu’s relationship with her mother (played by Geetha Kailasam), who grapples with the reality of her son now being her daughter and the need to adjust her language accordingly. The film highlights the emotional friction Bhanu experiences when she is deadnamed and emphasizes the pervasive lack of awareness about gender identity amongst those around her. Importantly, the screenplay refrains from vilifying these individuals, instead portraying them with nuanced empathy.
What initially presents as a personal journey soon transitions into a socio-drama as it addresses the institutional challenges Bhanu encounters in her role as a Physics teacher at a private school.
. Her colleagues, from the antagonistic Vice Principal (KVN Manimegalai) to other members of the faculty, create an oppressive environment that threatens Bhanu’s authenticity. The school’s Correspondent also emerges as a problematic figure—allowing Bhanu to be herself primarily for the sake of benefiting from a progressive, publicity-driven narrative rather than genuine acceptance. Furthermore, a subplot examines the objectification and fetishization of trans women by cis-het men, adding depth to the socio-cultural critique.
The film takes a bold stance in portraying the hostility faced by queer individuals within conventional educational systems, initiating discourse on critical topics such as restroom choices for transgender people. One poignant subplot involves Karthik (played by Masanth Natarajan), a non-binary student subjected to bullying for their authentic self-expression. Finding a confidante in Bhanu, Karthik’s narrative is initially perceived as somewhat forced, yet Samyuktha skillfully weaves his storyline into the fabric of Bhanu’s life, highlighting the parallels between their experiences. Notably, this interplay challenges the protagonist’s understanding of broader queer issues, courageously confronting the fragmentation within the LGBTQIA+ community.
As Bhanu navigates through societal impositions, the film sheds light on the systemic barriers faced by those who defy normative expectations. A powerful scene at a government institution exposes how purported support structures for queer people inadvertently enforce conformity, restricting the very diversity they claim to protect. The narrative poses a poignant question: is it so difficult to acknowledge that some trans people wish to be recognized for their gender transition while others wish to integrate fully into their identified gender?
While “Neela Nira Sooriyan” ambitiously critiques societal norms, it occasionally sacrifices the opportunity to delve deeper into Bhanu’s internal world. Much of her characterization is explored through relationships with others rather than her introspective journey. Even during poignant conversations with a psychologist (played by Kitty), the film’s exploration of Bhanu’s psyche remains largely at the surface. Though a powerful dialogue about Bhanu needing space to experience the world arises, one yearns for this introspection to continue as an underlying motif throughout the film.
Such thematic richness and attention to detail warrant a slower, more contemplative pace. Questions about Bhanu’s past expressions of femininity—did she cultivate a private sanctuary for her identity—are left unexplored. Despite these missed opportunities, Samyuktha’s film remains steadfast in its purpose and direction.
“Neela Nira Sooriyan” makes a meaningful stride forward for Tamil queer cinema. With thoughtful performances, astute writing, exceptional sound design, and understated direction, it offers an enlightening cinematic experience that encourages viewers to invest in its journey. Currently screened in theatres, the film’s impact serves both as artistic accomplishment and social commentary—a beacon of hope in the tapestry of Indian cinema.
