FC Gold 2023 Winner: R. Velraj | Viduthalai Part 1

A regular collaborator of director Vetri Maaran, cinematographer Velraj's ambition in Viduthalai is on exhibit from the very first frame, literally. Over eight minutes, a lubricated long shot opens the film, the camera taking us through the debris of a train explosion. The camera loops into and out of compartments, smoothly sliding through the aisles, then agitatedly shaking through, swirling through the scene, panning over conversations, sliding over heights, moving horizontally and vertically with just as much ease. The shot ends with a train compartment that is precariously dangling over the bridge, collapsing into the ground in slow motion. What a cool, calm, detached view, one that serves the brutal film well, without overstating any scene.