Manjummel Boys Malayalam Movie
In Theaters: INDIA
Besides being a gripping survival thriller, "Manjummel Boys" shines a spotlight on the enduring power of genuine friendship. It serves as a heartfelt tribute to camaraderie amidst the harrowing ordeal of a young man navigating treacherous terrain. The initial clash between two groups of youths at a wedding sets a lively backdrop for the characters, before the film transitions into a more somber tone amid a tourist destination.
In his second directorial outing following "Jan. E. Man," filmmaker Chidambaram deftly weaves a narrative inspired by real events, enriched with concise storytelling elements. From meticulous attention to camera work and events to character development, Chidambaram exhibits a consistent and controlled approach throughout the film.
While the screenplay grapples with limitations, particularly noticeable in the first half during character establishment, it subtly hints at the personal lives of protagonists Kuttan (portrayed by Soubin Shahir) and Subash (played by Sreenath Bhasi). Kuttan's character assumes pivotal significance amidst the core conflict of "Manjummel Boys," as Soubin authentically embodies Kuttan's anguish amidst crisis.
The rescue operations depicted evoke memories of survival dramas like "Malootty" from the 90s, albeit without the intense scenes reminiscent of "127 Hours." Nevertheless, the events unfold naturally, offering compelling moments of engagement.
Set in 2006, 'Manjummel Boys' narrates the road trip of a group of friends from Kochi to Kodaikanal. Led by Kuttan, the friends from Darshana Arts and Sports club engage in their revelries during the journey. Hailing from humble backgrounds, the youngsters including Krishnakumar (Ganapathi), Sudheesh (Deepak Parambol), Anil (Abhiram Radhakrishnan), Sixen John (Balu Varghese) and Siju John (Jean Paul Lal) show all kinds of puerilities of their age. While travelling in the vehicle driven by Prasad, played by Khalid Rahman, they visit Guna cave aka Devil's Kitchen in Kodaikanal where Kamal Hassan's popular film 'Guna' was shot. While enjoying the scenery on the rocky terrain, unfortunately, Subash falls into a trench through the fissure of a rock.
The portrayal of the intense bonding of youngsters is striking in the latter part of the film. The sequences of their childhood buttress the threads of their relationship and it helps the movie build an emotional connection. In his desperate condition deep inside the trench, the recurring delusions of Subash are adorned by the presence of his friends. The thought of Subash in that pathetic condition is about his childhood and he longs for his mother's presence. Chidambaram has fabulously conceived the thought process of the affected person sans deploying any opulent gimmicks.
Cinematography, particularly crucial in survival thrillers, effectively enhances the atmosphere of tension and suspense within the dark confines. Shyju Khalid's captivating frames complemented by Sushin Shyam's evocative background score intensify the narrative after the group faces tragedy.
In essence, "Manjummel Boys" emerges as an absorbing survival drama that not only entertains but also underscores the enduring bonds of friendship within the constraints of a simple yet compelling plot.
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