Raastha Malayalam Movie

Set in Oman, 'Raastha' follows four stranded people in a desert while they search for the mother of one among them. Events in this survival drama lack natural transformation as the plot is bereft of intensity. Jan 9, 2024 By K. R. Rejeesh

Directed by Aneesh Anwar, 'Raastha' takes its audience on an emotional and sentimental journey across one of the world's treacherous deserts. Writers Shahul Erattupetta and Fayiz Madakkara focus on portraying the challenges faced by four individuals stranded in Oman's Rub'al Khali desert. The screenplay's primary goal is to evoke emotional empathy by highlighting the struggles of characters navigating an unfamiliar terrain. While the plot's potential is evident, the film requires a more organic development of events on screen to heighten the conflict's intensity.

The narrative unfolds in Oman, where NRI Faisal (Sarjano Khalid) eagerly anticipates the arrival of Shahana (Anagha Narayanan) from Thalassery, Kerala. Shahana's mission is to locate her estranged mother believed to be residing somewhere in the Gulf. Salim (Sudheesh), an influential NRI in Oman, aids Shahana in her journey, entrusting Faisal with her care. Faisal arranges her stay at the home of his colleague and lover, Divya (Aradhya Ann). However, Faisal's excessive concern for Shahana raises suspicions in Divya's mind, leading to tension.

Upon Salim's information, Faisal, along with his friend Mujeeb (Aneesh Anwar), Shahana, and Omani official Khalid (Khamis Al Rawahi), embarks on a journey to a town near the Rub'al Khali desert in search of Shahana's mother. Tragically, they find themselves trapped in the vast desert, bordered by Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the UAE. The film's critical phase unfolds as the characters struggle for survival in the unforgiving desert environment. The desert sequences, while partially impressive, face limitations in portraying the characters' harrowing experiences solely through sandstorms and endless stretches of sand.

Anagha Narayanan effectively carries the emotional weight of the plot, portraying her character convincingly. Despite her efforts, the narrative fails to establish a strong emotional connection during Shahana's visits to various places in search of her mother. Sarjano Khalid displays flexibility in his role as a young professional, while Aradhya Ann's performance is passable. Sabeer (Irshad Ali) and Bharathan (TG Ravi) appear as selfless NRIs supporting Sahana's quest. However, some initial scenes are lengthy and insignificant, contributing minimally to establishing camaraderie among expatriate Malayalees.

Vishnu Narayanan's cinematography skillfully captures the visuals of the unfamiliar terrains, enhancing the director's narrative style. Avin Mohan Sithara's music eloquently complements the film's proceedings. Despite these strengths, 'Raastha' falls short in delivering the desired intensity and natural flow, as it seems to rely on contrived events rather than a genuine progression of the plot. The survival drama lacks a natural transformation, leaving the storyline devoid of compelling storytelling ideas.