Pravinkoodu Shappu, a Malayalam-language black comedy crime thriller film, is currently streaming on SonyLIV. Here is our review of the movie.
Story:
In a rainy village, 11 people were stuck inside a local toddy shop because of a storm. They were playing cards and having a good time when all hell broke loose. The next morning, the bar’s owner, Komban Babu, was found dead, hanging from a rope inside his own bar. A police officer came to investigate and questioned all the eleven individuals who were there that night, believing that he would find a clue. Everyone had secrets, and as the officer talked to them, it became clear someone had killed Komban Babu. The question was, who did it and why?
Analysis:
Usually, a well-written black comedy thriller is known to be a mix of dark humor, suspense, and sharp storytelling to create a film that’s equal parts unsettling and entertaining. It thrives on going beyond the viewer’s conventional expectations, balancing dark themes with witty moments, all while keeping the audience on edge. Films from the Malayalam film industry stay true to the genre. The film under review, Pravinkoodu Shappu, doesn’t ignore the fundamentals.
The ensemble delivers understated acts. Soubin Shahir, as Kannan, balances anxiety with a quiet desperation. Basil Joseph‘s portrayal of SI Santhosh is refreshingly grounded; he is vulnerable as required by the role. Chemban Vinod Jose imbues Suni with a compelling mix of different emotions. Chandini Sreedharan’s Merinda is alright. Shivajith, Shaji Chen, Shabareesh Varma, and Arjai each contribute nuanced performances.
Critics often praise Mollywood’s genre movies for their focus on kosher narratives. The situations are not unrealistic in these films; they are rare but not far-fetched. This departure from overly unrealistic action sequences resonates with audiences seeking authenticity, especially those who are tired of mass masala cinema. Many Mollywood films delve into the complexities of human nature, exploring moral ambiguities and the gray areas of crime. The film under review satisfies these themes.
The film is set in an environment that is interesting and captures the viewer’s attention. The director (debutant Sreeraj Sreenivasan) has put thought into the visual presentation of the film, creating scenes that are well-designed and executed. Ingenuity in staging makes a lot of difference in genre films. The perpetrator goes beyond simple cover-ups, employing creative and unexpected methods.
Vishnu Vijay’s music and Shyju Khalid’s cinematography are impressive.
Verdict:
Pravinkoodu Shappu delivers an engaging black comedy thriller. With strong performances, nuanced storytelling, and impressive technical execution, it’s a solid addition to the Malayalam genre film repertoire.
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