At the height of his career, Malayalam actor Mammootty is putting out success film after hit film with his brilliant script selections. The teaser for the black-and-white horror movie “Bramayugam” shocked viewers just when they believed he could not top his portrayal of a gay guy in “Kaathal – The Core.”
In the movie, Paanan (Arjun Ashokan), a lower-class courtroom singer, meets a female spirit known as a Yakshi while escaping a slave auction. After that, he manages to get away from her and seeks safety in Kodumon Potti’s estate. A black wizard named Potti (played by Mammootty) and his cook, Sidharth Bharathan, live in the expansive house. At first, Potti gives Paanan food and treats him like an equal.
Paanan quickly learns, meanwhile, that he is imprisoned within Potti’s estate. What is the legend surrounding the haunted mansion, and what does Paanan constantly hear at night? Will Paanan plot his escape and disregard the chef’s advice? There are two hours and twenty minutes of answers to these questions.
The 17th-century film “Bramayugam” by director Rahul Sadasivan is the ideal fusion of horror and mythology. The movie takes its sweet time getting going while simultaneously getting you ready for the journey. It demonstrates that the creators are taking their time telling the tale and carefully bringing you inside the mansion where Paanan is imprisoned. You’ll find yourself imprisoned in Rahul Sadasivan’s world in a matter of minutes.
Before Paanan meets Potti, Mammootty is not shown to us. We also don’t get to see Paanan because he is a member of a lower caste and doesn’t look up at Potti’s face while they converse. And when we do get to meet him, his very presence captivates us.
“Bramayugam” has an immersive quality due to its black-and-white images. Popular author TD Ramakrishnan explains ideas about time, power, politics, fate, faith, religion, superstition, and most crucially, social constructs in straightforward dialogues that are incisive.
‘Bramayugam’s’ story is a straightforward one; its only flaw is that it could have used a few more levels. There are moments in the movie when it seems like the plot isn’t moving forward all that much. Still, Mammootty, Arjun Ashokan, and Sidharth Bharathan’s outstanding performances lift the movie. ‘Bramayugam’ provides an engaging cinematic experience when combined with photography by Shehnad Jalal, editing by Shafique Mohammed Ali, and music by Christo Xavier.
“Bramayugam” provides an immersive experience with a captivating plot. And it’s Mammootty at it again!
4 out of 5 stars for ‘Bramayugam’.
