by Clarke Fountain
synopsis
It would be surprising if a country with roots as ancient as India's did not have ancient artistic traditions which are little known elsewhere. The traditional art form known as Kathakali blends drama and song in a highly stylized manner. Marratam presents three different versions of the modern play of the same name by K.N. Panicker, each according to Kathakali tradition but set to a different style of folk music. Each version of the play has a different outcome. This prestigious film was produced by India's state television company, Doodarshan.
