Ponman Malayalam Movie Review

Ponman Malayalam Movie Review

Feature Film | 2025 | Drama
Critics:

Ponman: A Gripping Social Commentary on Dowry

Jothish Shankar's directorial debut, Ponman, skillfully blends realism and emotional depth to depict the struggles of a poor family caught in the vicious cycle of dowry, powered by stellar performances and a compelling narrative.
Jan 30, 2025 By K. R. Rejeesh

What stands out immediately in Ponman is its organic storytelling, seamlessly addressing a crucial social issue without resorting to preachiness. Rather than delivering a didactic message, the film subtly critiques the prevailing dowry system through a well-structured narrative. Directed by art director and production designer Jothish Shankar in his debut venture, the film is based on the novel Naalanchu Cheruppakkar by GR Indugopan. From the very beginning, the movie establishes its central conflict-the desperate attempts of a poor family to arrange the promised gold dowry for their daughter's wedding. While the premise may seem familiar, Jothish Shankar elevates it with a grounded and emotionally resonant treatment, allowing his actors to embody their roles with authenticity.


The film could have easily veered into melodrama, but the screenplay by GR Indugopan and Justin Mathew ensures a restrained and realistic approach. The dialogues are succinct and impactful, adding depth to the characters and their struggles.


Basil Joseph, previously seen delivering an emotionally charged performance in Kadina Kadoramee Andakadaham (2023), shines as P.P. Ajesh, a middleman arranging gold for weddings of financially struggling families. His nuanced portrayal adds weight to the film, making it gripping till the very end. Effortlessly capturing Ajesh's internal conflict and anguish, Basil delivers one of his finest performances.


The narrative unfolds in the coastal town of Kollam, where Agnes (Sandhya Rajendran), a widow, struggles to procure the promised dowry for her daughter Steffi Graf (Lijomol Jose). Meanwhile, her unemployed son Bruno (Anand Manmadhan) seeks the help of Ajesh, securing 25 sovereigns of gold on the condition that the full amount must be repaid the day after the wedding. However, Agnes and Bruno fall short, paying only for 12 sovereigns and evading Ajesh for the rest.


Determined to reclaim the remaining gold, Ajesh confronts Steffi's ruthless husband Mariano (Sajin Gopu), only to find himself in deeper trouble. Despite its social theme, the film never feels preachy, thanks to its naturalistic storytelling and engaging screenplay. While addressing the harrowing consequences of the dowry system, Ponman thrives on its powerful performances and understated yet impactful narrative.


Lijomol Jose delivers an affecting performance as the newlywed Steffi, capturing the despair and emotional turmoil of a woman trapped in an unfair system. Her interactions with Basil Joseph and Anand Manmadhan add depth to the film. Sandhya Rajendran, with her rich theatrical experience, convincingly portrays a mother torn between her circumstances and moral dilemmas. Sajin Gopu, playing a remorseless husband, brings an unsettling realism to his role.


Apart from its gripping narrative, Ponman stands out technically, with Sanu John Varghese's striking cinematography enhancing the film's raw and immersive atmosphere. In essence, this poignant social drama delivers a thought-provoking message with remarkable performances and technical finesse.

K. R. Rejeesh

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