The National Film Awards are one of India’s most prestigious recognitions for cinematic excellence, celebrating films that showcase exceptional storytelling, performances, and technical brilliance. However, not every critically acclaimed movie makes the cut. This year, Prithviraj Sukumaran’s The Goat Life (originally titled Aadujeevitham) faced a surprising snub, leaving fans and critics questioning the decision.

According to the National Awards jury, the film “lacked naturality” and the performances weren’t “authentic enough” to warrant an award. But what exactly led to this verdict, and how does it reflect on the film’s overall impact?

A Gruelling Tale That Fell Short of Expectations?

The Goat Life, based on Benyamin’s bestselling novel Aadujeevitham, tells the harrowing true story of Najeeb, a Malayali migrant worker forced into slavery as a goat herder in Saudi Arabia. The film was highly anticipated, especially given Prithviraj’s drastic physical transformation and the challenging desert shoot.

However, the jury felt that despite its intense subject and visual grandeur, the film “did not fully capture the raw, unfiltered essence of survival” as expected. Some members pointed out that certain emotional scenes felt “staged rather than organic,” reducing the overall impact of Najeeb’s ordeal.

Performances: Dedicated but Not ‘Authentic’?

Prithviraj Sukumaran’s commitment to the role was undeniable—he lost significant weight, endured extreme conditions, and delivered a physically demanding performance. Yet, the jury remarked that “while the effort was visible, the emotional depth didn’t always feel genuine.”

Supporting actors, including Amala Paul and Hollywood cinematographer Santosh Sivan’s visually stunning work, were also noted, but the consensus was that the film “prioritized technical brilliance over soul-stirring realism.”

Was the Snub Justified? Mixed Reactions from Critics and Fans

The jury’s comments have sparked debate. While some agree that The Goat Life had moments that felt “too cinematic for a story that demanded gritty realism,” others argue that the film’s technical achievements and Prithviraj’s dedication deserved recognition.

Interestingly, the film’s slow pacing and heavy reliance on visuals over dialogue may have contributed to the perception of “lack of naturality.” Unlike other survival dramas that rely on raw performances and minimalistic storytelling, The Goat Life opted for a more polished approach—which, according to the jury, diluted its emotional authenticity.

Read Also: Kayoze Irani Reflects on Sarzameen’s Journey: Embracing Flaws and Viewer Grace

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