A Bold Script from the Heart of Mollywood
Narivettai reaffirms why Malayalam cinema continues to lead the way when it comes to rooted, character-driven storytelling. With a script that doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths, the film delves deep into the theme of police brutality and systemic corruption, offering a poignant narrative on how good men are turned into victims by circumstance and power play.
Narration & Structure – Flashbacks That Strike Hard
The film opens with an intense sequence filled with tension and unanswered questions, quickly pulling the viewer into a layered flashback structure. This narrative choice works beautifully in gradually unraveling the moral dilemmas and human cost of institutional abuse, while keeping the suspense alive till the final act.
Performances – A Display of Range and Intensity
Tovino Thomas plays the role of a trainee cop with remarkable depth and restraint. His transformation from an idealist to someone trapped in a murky system is both believable and moving.
On the other hand, Suraj Venjaramoodu delivers a knockout performance reminiscent of his power-packed act in Veera Dheera Sooran. His ability to blend subtlety with intensity elevates the film to another level.
Cheran, as the senior manipulative cop, initially feels like a miscast with his body language not entirely fitting the part. However, he gradually grows into the role, making his presence count by the climax. His character, despite being morally ambiguous, adds complexity to the film’s commentary.
Visuals & Romance – Aesthetic Breathers
The romantic subplot, though brief, brings a welcome softness to the otherwise gritty narrative. Set against the lush backdrops of Wayanad, the cinematography captures the serenity of the location in stark contrast to the emotional turmoil of the story. These sequences offer visual relief and emotional layering without disrupting the film’s pace.
Climax – A Slightly Contrived But Impactful End
While the final moments of the film feel a bit constructed, especially in terms of dramatic escalation, the emotional payoff remains intact. It ties up the themes of injustice and redemption, albeit in a somewhat theatrical manner.
Final Thoughts
Narivettai stands tall as a courageous and well-written film that explores complex themes with a sense of purpose. Backed by stellar performances and grounded storytelling, it is both a cinematic and emotional journey worth taking.
Short Verdict:
“A gripping portrayal of police misuse of power, ‘Narivettai’ is a haunting tale that stays with you long after the credits roll.”
NARIVETTAI
CAST :-
Tovino Thomas
Suraj Venjarammoodu
Cheran
Priyamvada Krishnan
Arya Salim
Prasanth Madhavan
Pranav Teophine
Nandu
Krishnan Balakrishnan
Sudhi Calicut
Rini Udayakumar
Appunni Sasi
Kumar Sethu
Unnikrishnan
Vinod Bose
Thomman
CREW:-
Direction : Anuraj Manohar
Production : Indian Cinema company
Producers : Tippushan, Shiyas Hassan
Writer : Abin Joseph
Music : Jakes Bejoy
Cinematography : Vijay
Art Direction : M Bawa
Stunts : Phoenix Prabhu, Ashraf gurukkal
Editing : Shameer Muhammed
Costumes : Arun Manohar
Choreography : Spring
Stills : Shain saboora, Sreeraj Krishnan
Production Controller : Sakker Hussain
Production Executive : Prathapan Kalliyoor
PRO : Riaz K Ahmed, Paras Riyaz
