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Ajay (Tovino Thomas), an electrician from Chiyothikavu, Kerala, is deeply in love with Laxmi (Krithi Shetty). His life, however, is marred by the tarnished reputation of his grandfather, Maniyan (also played by Tovino Thomas), who had once stolen the valuable Sreeboodhi Lamp from the village temple.
Story:
Ajay (Tovino Thomas), an electrician from Chiyothikavu, Kerala, is deeply in love with Laxmi (Krithi Shetty). His life, however, is marred by the tarnished reputation of his grandfather, Maniyan (also played by Tovino Thomas), who had once stolen the valuable Sreeboodhi Lamp from the village temple. Things take a dark turn when Sudhev (Harish Uttaman), a devious local, blackmails Ajay into searching for the lamp’s hidden treasure. As Ajay embarks on this perilous journey, he uncovers shocking truths about the lamp, his family, and Sudhev’s true intentions. Why does Maniyan covet the lamp so intensely? Who exactly is Sudhev, and what are his plans? Will Ajay be able to recover the treasure and secure a future with Laxmi? The film delves into these mysteries, weaving a tale of love, deception, and revelation.
Pros:
Tovino Thomas shines in his 50th film, “ARM,” a period action-adventure drama. His portrayal of three distinct characters, especially the clever thief Maniyan, showcases his versatility and depth. Thomas captivates as Ajay, blending drama and charm seamlessly. Surabhi Laxmi makes a notable impact as Maniyan’s wife, despite limited screen time. Rohini Molleti and Basil Joseph also add value, with Joseph providing a comedic touch. Overall, the supporting cast performs effectively, contributing to a well-rounded and engaging narrative. Thomas’s compelling performance anchors the film, making it a memorable addition to his impressive career.
Cons:
While ARM boasts a compelling premise and an impressive cast, its execution falls short of expectations. The story, despite its potential, comes off as predictable and lacks engaging depth. A more refined screenplay could have greatly enhanced the film’s appeal and overall impact. Krithi Shetty’s character feels underdeveloped, with her scenes adding little value to the plot and seeming more like filler. The director missed key opportunities to deepen the narrative, such as delving into Maniyan’s vision for the treasure, which could have added much-needed intrigue. Additionally, the Telugu dubbing is passable, but the translation of signboards is often inconsistent, making the film feel like a standard dubbed production. These issues contribute to a sense of missed potential and a less immersive viewing experience.
Technical Aspects:
Jithin Lal’s debut story choice is commendable, though the execution suffers from writing issues. While Jomon T John’s striking visuals and Dhinu Ninan Thomas’s elevating score enhance several scenes, the film’s pacing falters due to Shameer Muhammed’s editing. Trimming some scenes in both halves could improve the flow. Despite these shortcomings, the production values remain decent, showcasing a solid foundation. Overall, the film shows promise but falls short in execution, leaving room for improvement in storytelling and editing.
Verdict:
“Ajayante Randam Moshanam” (ARM) is a period action-adventure drama showcasing Tovino Thomas in three distinct roles. Despite his adequate performances, the film’s predictability and lackluster screenplay diminish its appeal. While it holds potential, the shortcomings in writing and pacing might impact its overall enjoyment. Fans of the genre may find it worth watching, but it’s advisable to manage expectations. The film’s strengths are overshadowed by its narrative flaws, making it a mixed experience for viewers.
#Rating: 3/5
Director: Jithin Laal
Starring: Tovino Thomas, Rohini Molleti, Aishwarya Rajesh, Basil Joseph, Surabhi Laxmi, Krithi Shetty, and others
Music Director: Dhibu Ninan Thomas
Cinematographer: Jomon T. John
Editor: Shameer Muhammed
Producers: Listin Stephen and Zachariah Thomas
