Kamboji Malayalam Movie
In "Kamboji", the attempt to meld art forms with cinematic elements is evident. Does it work? Certainly not. We have cult films made in the backdrop of Carnatic music and classical dance. In that genre, "Kamboji" is a miserable attempt.
First of all, director Vinod Mankara is baffled in his efforts to blend the story with the art form, Kathakali. Surprisingly, he exposes his shortcomings in exploiting the medium while narrating the story of a failed Kathakali artiste. For instance, the filmmaker is unable to delineate convincingly the influence of three women that leads to the fall of the protagonist. Scripted by himself, Vinod is solely banking on the emotional conflict of the hero, and that too loaded with overdose of melodrama.
"Kamboji" tells the tragic story of Kathakali artiste Kunjunni (Vineeth) and his unsuccessful love with Uma Antharjanam (Lakshmi Gopalaswamy). Kunjunni reaches Uma's house to learn Kathakali from Ravunni Menon (Hareesh Peradi), a veteran in the art form. Menon is like a family member in Uma's house and that's why he stays there to teach children Kathakali in the courtyard. A talented disciple, Kunjunni impresses Menon, who assigns Kunjunni to run the class there and leaves for his house forever to look after his only daughter. However, love blossoms between Uma and Kunjunni. Things become complicated when the murder of Narayani (Sona Nair) occurs in the village.
Set in the 70s, the film begins in flashback mode describing the events that changed the life of Kunjunni. It showcases Vineeth's prolific acting and dancing prowess. He has won state award for choreography in the film (Chenthaar nermukhee...). His effortless portrayal of the character is impressive. The combination of two marvelous classical dancers--Vineeth and Lakshmi Gopalaswamy-- is a treat to watch. But the melodramatic treatment and relying too much on the sentimental aspect of the plot bungle the movie, which has melodious songs penned by the late ONV and music by M. Jayachandran.
"Kamboji" scores well musically, but it's amateurish and crude narration take the film nowhere. The whole package in this emotional drama is enough to test your patience.
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