Aattam Malayalam Movie

Feature Film | 2024 | Crime, Drama
Critics:
'Aattam' is a remarkable film with highly impressive narration and performances elevating the simple plot to a supreme level of cinematic experience.
Jan 5, 2024 By K. R. Rejeesh

Where To Watch:
Streaming:
   Amazon Prime (India)

In his debut feature film, "Aattam," writer-director Anand Ekarshi skillfully unravels a world exhibiting the unmistakable traits of a conventional patriarchal society. Ekarshi delicately plucks each petal from the 'flower of truth,' exposing the transformation of these petals into a vibrant yet deceptive tapestry. The film achieves brilliance as each character assumes the role of a flickering petal, influenced by a complex mindset.


Architect Anjali, portrayed by Zarin Shihab, stands as the sole actress in the Arangu drama troupe, surrounded by 12 male counterparts. When Anjali encounters an issue within the troupe, garnering support proves challenging due to a lack of conviction in her account of the incident. "Aattam" delves into the mental anguish Anjali experiences in the face of volatile attitudes and hypocrisy within the group.


Ekarshi adeptly draws parallels between Anjali's plight and real-life events, skillfully crafting a screenplay that distinguishes the film as compelling and unique. The emotional segment is presented without exaggeration, allowing viewers to organically empathize with the protagonist as they navigate through the natural flow of the narrative.


Zarin Shihab's powerful and intense portrayal of Anjali transcends her acting potential, establishing her as the linchpin of the film. As the central conflict primarily affects the female protagonist, Shihab's performance imparts the necessary momentum to the drama. The plot unfolds in the midst of chaos, with Anjali struggling to convince others in a patriarchal world. Vinay (Vinay Forrt), her lover and co-star, grapples with indecision regarding the unfortunate incident. The film explores the complexities within the drama troupe, ranging from conflicts over roles to the influence of a popular actor on accusations of molestation.


"Aattam" delves deep into the human psyche, revealing people's nimble ability to deviate from truth for selfish gains. The film's beauty lies in its succinct dialogues, pivotal in elevating it to the zenith of compelling drama. Vinay Forrt's endearing performance captures the hero's bewildered mental state and dilemma, complementing the dialogue-driven narrative. The film introduces natural performances from newcomers and features a captivating musical score by Basil C J.


"Aattam" stands out as a strikingly impactful movie, amplifying its intentions through straightforward and realistic storytelling. Resisting cinematic embellishments, the film adheres to its theme, offering a refreshing cinematic experience. It successfully elevates a simple plot to a supreme level of cinematic excellence, portraying the intricate shades of lies within a patriarchal universe with remarkable and astounding finesse.

K. R. Rejeesh

   

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