Release Date : January 26, 2023
123telugu.com Rating : 2.75/5
Starring: Unni Mukundan, Deva Nandha, Sreepath, Saiju Kurup
Director: Vishnu Sasi Shankar
Producers: Priya Venu, Neeta Pinto
Music Director: Ranjin Raj
Cinematography: Vishnu Narayanan
Editor: Shameer Muhammed
Related Links : Trailer
The Malayalam blockbuster Malikappuram starring Unni Mukundhan in the lead role, has created a sensation at the Kerala box office. The movie’s Telugu version hit the screens today, and let’s see how it is.
Story:
An eight-year-old girl named Shannu (Deva Nandha) wishes to visit Sabarimala, as her favorite deity is Lord Ayyappa. This remains a long unfulfilled dream despite Shannu asking her father relentlessly. All of a sudden, an unfortunate incident takes place, which disturbs Shannu’s family. Shannu, along with her brother Bujji (Sreepath), decides to go to Sabarimala all by themselves. A child trafficker keeps trying to kidnap Shannu. Did the kids reach Sabarimala safely? Did they get rid of the kidnapper? What is the role of Ayappan (Unni Mukundan) in this story? The film has the answers.
Plus Points:
One will surely get surprised after watching Deva Nandha’s acting, the kid who played Shannu. The entire film revolves around her character, and it is not easy to pull off something like Shannu’s role at such a young age. But the child actress has done a marvelous job, and she surely has a bright future. Deva Nandha’s acting in a few junctures will bring tears to the eyes.
Sreepath, who played Bujji, the brother of Deva Nandha, is amazing. The movie is given decent humor touch through Bujji’s character, and the kid is awesome. His comedy timing evoked a few laughs. As a protective brother, he is superb, and his expressions were spot on.
Last but not the least, Unni Mukundan gave a settled performance as Ayappan. The actor’s screen presence was a massive advantage for the film, and a few scenes of him with kids worked nicely. There is a good message towards the end of the movie. A fight sequence that comes in the second hour is very well composed.
Minus Points:
The message intended to convey is good, but the straightforward narration doesn’t serve the purpose. Except for a few scenes, the movie is pretty dull and tiresome. There are no surprises or thrilling moments, and the film goes on with a flat screenplay.
The story is a major disappointment as it is pretty bland. The devotional touch is fine, but more substance was required to elevate the proceedings. An old Telugu film named Devullu’s story is more or less similar to Malikappuram’s plot. What worked well with the former was the engrossing portrayal of the characters’ journey in achieving their goal. This is where Malikkapuram fails to engage.
The journey should have been highlighted more besides depicting the girl’s family angle. All artists gave their best, but the key issue lies with the writing. At times the movie becomes prolonged and better editing was required in a few sequences.
Technical Aspects:
Ranjin Raj’s music is fine, and a song was good on screen. Vishnu Narayanan’s cinematography neatly captured the aesthetic Kerala locations. The editing is just okay, and the production values are good.
Coming to the director, Vishnu Sasi Shankar, he did a pretty ordinary job with the film. While the movie actually had more scope to deliver big, it was restrained by bland writing. There are decent moments, but they are only a few in number.
Verdict:
On the whole, Malikappuram clicks here and there. The movie largely benefits from the lead cast’s superior performances, and emotions work in parts. Had the movie team designed a few more exciting moments, the film’s range would have been enhanced. Hence Malikappuram ends up being an okay watch this weekend.
123telugu.com Rating: 2.75/5
Reviewed by 123telugu Team