Bramayugam Movie Review Rating:
Star Cast: Mammootty, Amalda Liz, Arjun Ashokan, Sidharth Bharathan
Director: Rahul Sadasivan
What’s Good: The film’s black-and-white aesthetic adds a layer of visual allure, complementing its period setting and reducing the impact of gore. Mammootty’s portrayal of Kunjamon Potti is a standout, showcasing his versatility and anchoring the film with a captivating performance. The incorporation of intricate folklore elements by writer Rahul Sadasivan enriches the storytelling, while the musical score by Christo Xavier enhances the atmospheric experience.
What’s Bad: While “Bramayugam” delivers solid entertainment, it may not fully meet expectations for those seeking intense scares or excessive violence. The pacing in the movie’s first half is slightly slow, and despite setups for jump scares, they don’t materialize, potentially leaving some viewers wanting more.
Loo Break: While the movie initially unfolds at a slower pace, it only provides a few opportunities for a convenient restroom break.
Watch or Not?: I recommend waiting for the streaming release, especially for viewers with an OLED screen and a decent audio setup. While the theatrical experience offers visual splendor, the essence of the film can be appreciated just as well at home.
Language: Malayalam
Available On: Theatrical release
Runtime: 139 minutes
User Rating:
Directed by Rahul Sadasivan and starring Mammootty, “Bramayugam” transports audiences to a bygone era, delving into the eerie narrative of Thevan, a young folk singer whose fate intertwines with the enigmatic Kunjamon Potti’s decaying mansion. As Thevan attempts to escape, he finds himself ensnared in Potti’s sinister plans, leading to a gripping tale of suspense and folklore.
Bramayugam Movie Review: Script Analysis
Rahul Sadasivan’s screenplay for “Bramayugam” cunningly intertwines folklore and suspense, spinning a web of narrative darkness that ensnares viewers in a realm of mystery and diabolical intrigue. Teaming up with acclaimed novelist TD Ramakrishnan, Sadasivan crafts dialogue dripping with malevolence and foreboding, luring audiences deeper into the sinister landscape of 17th-century Southern Malabar. The script’s true wickedness lies in its ability to twist conventions, manipulating traditional storytelling techniques into an ominous and innovative tapestry. By seamlessly melding historical reality with supernatural terror, Sadasivan conjures a chilling narrative that keeps viewers trembling on the precipice of horror until the last frame fades to black.
Furthermore, Sadasivan’s screenplay is a foundation for the film’s thematic exploration, delving into themes of fear, power, and the unknown. Through the interactions of characters like Thevan and Kunjamon Potti, the script navigates the complexities of human nature and the allure of forbidden knowledge. Each scene is meticulously crafted to build tension and suspense, culminating in a climactic showdown that leaves a lasting impression. The script makes this movie a thought-provoking exploration of folklore and the human psyche.
Bramayugam Movie Review: Star Performance
“Bramayugam” relentlessly hounds audiences with a powerhouse ensemble cast, each actor pushing the film to unparalleled heights. Mammootty’s rendition of the enigmatic Kunjamon Potti is utterly captivating, displaying his boundless skill and profound acting prowess. With finesse and weight, Mammootty breathes life into the multifaceted antihero, enveloping viewers in Potti’s labyrinth of mystery and shadows. His compelling aura becomes the film’s unyielding force, precise audiences deeper into the enigmatic depths of Potti’s universe.
Arjun Ashokan shines as Paanan, infusing the character with vulnerability and resilience. Arjun Ashokan’s performance is chillingly remarkable, portraying the essence of a man ensnared by supernatural forces beyond his grasp. Sidharth Bharathan’s portrayal of the chef is equally unsettling, delving into the depths of a man tormented by the malevolent secrets concealed within his employer’s mansion. Despite their limited screen time, Amalda Liz and Manikandan Achari leave an impression with their performances. Together, these talented actors breathe life into “Bramayugam.”