North 24 Kaatham

My review: North 24 Kaatham

 The freshness and levity in the writing is fast becoming a common creative trait of the new age Malayalam writers and directors. Yet another debutante to fall in that line is Anil Radhakrishnan Menon. His debut feature film, Fahad Fazil starrer "North 24 Kaatham" is an interesting movie with its unconventional fascinating characters, exciting backdrop and a simple story that keeps the audience under its spell for two hours. Stylishly shot and crisply presented with an undercurrent of levity that lightens up the mood "North 24 Kaatham" is yet another example of how Malayalam movies are fast becoming the best among the south Indian if not Indian cinema. 

Movie has one of the best performance from Fahad in his already powerful repertoire. His character is the heart and soul of the movie on which the its foundation is laid on. As a high functioning autistic Harikrishnan with the traits of Asperger's Fahad has lived the character. Not even at a single moment you could realize that he is enacting a movie role. He is so natural and his portrayal is so authentic that he instantaneously grabs all the eye balls and attention towards him and sustains it till the end. It is a career best performance from this immensely talented Mallu. Sad that his talent is getting restricted to Malayalam movie industry. Talent of such stature needs a pan-Indian stage and recognition.  

Coming onto Anil, his hard work in the conception and development of the character that is so eccentric and unusual is evident on screen. Except for the contrived ending, both for the movie and the character arc of the protagonist, his writing and execution is faultless. The backdrop of a hartal day in Kerala is so effortlessly visualized and seamlessly blend into the narrative. The landscape that the trio traverse makes up for a visual treat with awesome cinematography by Jayesh Nair. Govind Menon's background score and musical score further enhances the whole movie viewing experience. Such a seamless confluence of talent from all the quarters is what makes a simple movie like this special. 

Swathi Reddy as an independent social worker has a meaty role as well. She is such a talented actress who is underrated in all the three industries she is working in. When it comes to expressions and emotive skills she is second to none and right there among the best. Nedumudi Venu gets a substantial part to play after a long gap. It is a pleasure to see the veteran in full flow. 

On the whole, "North 24 Kaatham" is a beautifully made film, a must watch for Fahad Fazil's excellent acting. 

Bottomline: Road less traveled, but the travel is a pleasant one. 

3.5/5