Recently, I've become an avid fan of Malayalam cinema. Films like Nadodikattu, Udhayananu Thaaram, Varavelpu, Thanmathra, Ramji Rao Speaking, The Tiger were all my personal favorites.
But I have happened to come across this film under a family friend's recommendation. Apparently, it's considered a cult classic in Kerala today thanks to the direction of Priyadarshan and Kerala's Megastar Mohanlal. Also co-starring Renjini, Nedumudi Venu, and Srinivasan, the film is a roller-coaster ride full of humor and sentiments.
Here goes the story: Kalyani (Renjini) lives with his uncle Kymal (Nedumudi Venu). Her father is currently working in the U.S and it's suggested that Kalyani should go to Ooty to get married. However, Kalyani declines as she's in love with someone (Suresh Gopi in Sp. Appearance). Down in Ooty, the villiager (Srinivasan) vows to be head-chief with this marriage but after hearing the news regarding Kalyani's wishes, he approves of her beau.
But things take a turn on the marriage registration day that Kalyani's beau declines to appear and at the same time, her father wants to make amends to her daughter by arriving in person. Stuck in soup, Kymal finds Vishnu (Mohanlal) and offers to pay a sum of 10,000 just to play husband to Kalyani for 15 days. What follows is a cat-mouse tale that leades to a stirring flashback and climax.
CHITHRAM succeeds in almost every aspect of a classic. The subtle comic touch in various scenes (Vishnu's alliances becoming relations, identity crisis, Kymal's excuses, money demands) all were touched upon superbly. The music by Kannur Rajan were nostalgic. The flashback song is one my personal favorites. But CHITHRAM also touches upon emotions as well. Vishnu's flashback is basically the rising action of the film, leading up to the climax. Clitches be damned, the movie was near perfect.
Now for the performances!
It's not a Priyadarshan film without the caliber of Mohanlal. Simply put: Brilliant. He makes us laugh when we want to laugh, he makes us cry when we want to cry. Give the guy a padma bhushan already! Renjini is competent. Nedumudi Venu as the Advocate uncle is excellent. Srinivasan brings down the house with his tounge-in-cheek humor.
CHITHRAM is highly recommended for those who want to enjoy cinema. Go for it.
Rating: ****.5 (4.5/5)
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