Narivetta Movie Review
Narivetta: A Stirring Reimagination of Tribal Injustice
Tovino Thomas shines in Narivetta, a gripping docu-fiction that reimagines the tragic 2003 Muthanga tribal protest through the conflicted conscience of a reluctant police constable.Narivetta, directed by Anuraj Manohar and starring Tovino Thomas, revisits the long-standing narrative of marginalized communities and the state's often fraught relationship with them. Loosely inspired by the 2003 tribal protest in Muthanga, Wayanad, the film blends fact with fiction to portray the injustice, violence, and systemic failure that marred a significant chapter in Kerala's history. Anchored by a poignant performance from Tovino, the film explores both the socio-political ramifications of the incident and the internal struggle of an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances.
At its core, Narivetta is a dual narrative: one that lays bare the harsh realities faced by the tribal population in their fight for land and dignity, and another that intimately follows the journey of Varghese Peter (Tovino Thomas), a jobless young man from Kuttanad who reluctantly becomes a police constable. Initially hesitant to accept a lower-grade government job, Varghese's dreams of a better life are derailed by societal pressures and personal heartbreak, ultimately pushing him into a role he never truly embraces.
Anuraj crafts a compelling emotional arc around Varghese, establishing his disillusionment with a system that demands obedience over empathy. His reluctant participation in an emergency police mission to Wayanad-where tribal protestors have occupied forest land in defiance of government apathy-forms the crux of the narrative. Even amid the mission, Varghese clings to hope, quietly preparing for competitive exams in the hope of a better future. His only comfort is his kind-hearted senior, Basheer (played effectively by Suraj Venjaramoodu), who brings a warm presence to an otherwise tense environment.
The film doesn't shy away from its political leanings. Through striking scenes-like a tribal youth being dragged into custody for allegedly stealing an arecanut-Anuraj exposes the cruel marginalization of tribal communities. The tribal leaders, CK Shanthi (Arya Salim) and Madhu (Prasanth Madhavan), are portrayed with grit and realism. Arya's performance, especially, stands out for its authenticity and resonance with real-life activists.
A significant tension arises between Varghese and Thaami (Pranav Teophine), a fiery tribal youth, symbolizing the broader clash between law enforcement and oppressed communities. The dynamic reaches a boiling point under the leadership of the manipulative police chief Raghuram Keshavan, played by Tamil actor-director Cheran in a commendable Malayalam debut. Cheran's subtle yet commanding portrayal adds nuance to a character emblematic of institutional authority and its quiet ruthlessness.
Technically, Narivetta is a triumph. Cinematographer Vijay captures the raw beauty and isolation of the forest landscape with great finesse, while Jakes Bejoy's haunting background score amplifies the emotional and dramatic weight of the story. Though the pacing lags slightly during the film's introspective portions, particularly in tracing Varghese's emotional turmoil, these sections are crucial in elevating the film beyond the trappings of standard docu-drama.
In conclusion, Narivetta is a powerful cinematic reflection on a real-life tragedy, brought to life with sincerity and artistic integrity. Anuraj Manohar handles the subject matter with sensitivity and restraint, turning a historical blot into a moving, human story. While the narrative rehashes familiar themes of exploitation and injustice, its execution-marked by strong performances and evocative storytelling-makes it a compelling and necessary watch.
