Daveed Movie Review
Daveed: A Gritty Underdog Sports Drama
Govind Vishnu's debut film 'Daveed' delivers a gripping sports drama, balancing raw heroism with realism, as a local underdog faces off against an international boxing champion.In Daveed, an ambitious sports drama, a professional boxing champion squares off against a young fighter from Kochi, setting the stage for a gripping contest. Unlike the conventional hero's journey, the protagonist isn't given an easy path to showcase his valor. To his daughter, however, Ashiq Abu (played powerfully by Antony Varghese, aka Pepe) is nothing less than Goliath-she believes he will overcome every hurdle and emerge victorious.
Marking the directorial debut of Govind Vishnu, who co-wrote the script with Deepu Rajeevan, Daveed impresses despite a somewhat underwhelming conflict. What stands out is the director's confidence in handling boxing-centric storytelling. Rather than granting his hero an effortless rise, Govind lets him taste failure, striking a compelling balance between heroism and reality. His dynamic storytelling energy is evident throughout.
The film opens on a surreal note, introducing its theme through a biblical reference to David and Goliath in a school classroom. Abu's daughter, Safa alias Kunhi (Jess Kuku), imagines her father as Goliath and carries that belief home-where we see a lethargic, aimless Abu. His wife, Sherin (Lijomol Varghese), shoulders the family's responsibilities, acting as the sole breadwinner while Abu drifts through life, dreaming of working as a celebrity bouncer. Despite financial struggles, he shares a jovial bond with his uncle Kabir (Saiju Kurup).
An unexpected twist occurs when, during a security gig, Abu's impulsive reaction earns the ire of international boxing champion Sainul Akhmadov (Mo Ismail). The enraged boxer challenges Abu to a fight, offering a hefty reward for the victor. Initially reluctant, Abu is eventually forced by circumstances to step into the ring against the formidable, Turkey-born Akhmadov. The question now looms: Can a local from Mattanchery defeat a world-class fighter? Under the rigorous training of veteran coach Aashaan (Vijayaraghavan), Abu embarks on a transformative journey to prepare for the ultimate showdown.
Slickly crafted, Daveed boasts strong performances, especially from Antony Varghese, whose never-say-die spirit elevates the film. His portrayal ensures the film sustains its emotional and dramatic impact. Mo Ismail's portrayal of a psychologically wounded yet formidable antagonist adds layers to the conflict, intensifying the suspense leading up to the climactic fight. While the narrative treads familiar ground, its execution is compelling.
The film also poignantly explores Abu's family life, particularly the resilience of Sherin, who believes unwaveringly in her husband's talent and grit. Lijomol Varghese shines as the steadfast wife, authentically depicting the struggles of a colony-dwelling homemaker.
Salu K. Thomas' cinematography captivates, with striking visuals complemented by Justin Varghese's stirring background score. The screenplay follows a standard sports-drama template-an underdog undergoing grueling training under a strict coach to take on a superior opponent. As expected, the climax unfolds in the boxing ring, where hero and villain settle their score in a high-stakes bout.
Despite a few screenplay shortcomings, Daveed boasts a powerful premise. It is a commendable debut effort, demonstrating a smart and confident approach to the sports drama genre. With a sharper script, it could have packed an even stronger punch.
