Bramayugam Malayalam Movie
Writer-director Rahul Sadasivan brings forth "Bramayugam," a monochrome masterpiece centered around the eerie confines of a dilapidated ancient house, inhabited by merely three prominent characters. Departing from conventional horror tropes, Sadasivan delves into the psychological horror rooted in the trauma of a lower caste individual trapped within the decrepit mansion, eschewing typical scare tactics in favor of a haunting black-and-white aesthetic that permeates the entire narrative. The film's opening scene, featuring an unconventional yakshi (female nature spirit), serves as a directorial statement, setting the tone for the film's unique approach.
Despite its seemingly straightforward plot, "Bramayugam" unfolds at a deliberate, unhurried pace, with Mammootty's captivating portrayal of Koduman Potti injecting vitality into the narrative. His menacing presence revitalizes the viewer's engagement, particularly as the story appears to stagnate alongside Thevan, portrayed by Arjun Ashokan. Mammootty's transformation adds a layer of eerie authenticity to the unfolding mystery, drawing viewers deeper into the escalating conflict.
The story commences with the mysterious death of Thevan's friend, Koran (Manikandan Achari), propelling Thevan into a journey that leads him to the forsaken mansion where Koduman Potti resides. Encountering the enigmatic servant, portrayed by Sidharth Bharathan, Thevan discovers that the house holds secrets beyond his comprehension, and Koduman Potti is anything but ordinary.
"Bramayugam" unfolds akin to a folklore tale, rich in atmospheric detail and punctuated by succinct dialogues crafted by T. D. Ramakrishnan. While the screenplay may lack vibrancy at times, the film's thematic exploration of power dynamics and their destructive consequences lends it a timeless quality reminiscent of classic fairy tales.
This is a film that eschews cinematic extravagance, demanding discerning sensibilities from its audience. The performances of the cast elevate the minimalist screenplay, with Arjun Ashokan's eloquent portrayal of Thevan anchoring the emotional core of the story. Sidharth Bharathan adds to the intrigue with his mysterious persona, while Amalda Liz embodies the ethereal presence of the female nature spirit.
Technical finesse serves as the cornerstone of "Bramayugam," with Shehnad Jalal's arresting monochrome visuals, Jotish Shankar's art direction, and Christo Xavier's haunting score contributing to its atmospheric allure. Beyond its surface scares, the film invites contemplation on the corrupting nature of power, transforming a simple plot into a thought-provoking exploration of human frailty.
MOVIE REVIEWS