Maranamass Movie Review: A Wild Ride of Dark Comedy and Mayhem
Cast: Basil Joseph, Rajesh Madhavan, Babu Antony, Suresh Krishna, Siju Sunny, Anishma Anilkumar
Director: Sivaprasad
Star Rating: ★★★
If you’ve been keeping up with the latest in the Malayalam film scene, you’re likely familiar with the dynamic friendship between actor-writer-director Basil Joseph and actor-producer Tovino Thomas. Their creative chemistry has repeatedly gifted us with memorable films, and now, they join forces once more in Maranamass, a dark comedy that promises to be a colorful cocktail of mayhem and laughs.
The Premise: A Gripping Tale of Chaos
Set in the picturesque landscape of Kerala, Maranamass thrusts us into a quirky plot filled with suspense and punchlines. A serial killer known as the ‘Banana Killer’ is wreaking havoc in the village of Vallikkunnu, gruesomely targeting elderly men and leaving behind a chilling calling card: stuffing the state’s beloved Poovan banana in their mouths. The film quickly divulges the identity of the killer and his traumatic motives, but the real thrill lies with Basil’s character, Luke PP.
Luke is not your typical hero; he’s a self-proclaimed sigma male and a YouTuber determined to expose the unsavory secrets of his neighbors, all under the guise of social reform. Unfortunately, his antics land him in trouble when the police mistakenly pin the serial killer moniker on him. In a comedic twist, the village collectively raises ₹16 lakhs to send him off to Czechoslovakia, desperate to free themselves from his relentless shenanigans.
Just when Luke thinks he can win back his girlfriend Jessie (played by Anishma Anilkumar) amidst the chaos, fate throws a curveball during a bus journey that could alter the course of the plot.
Strengths of Maranamass: Laughter Amidst Darkness
Basil Joseph has certainly broadened his horizons in Maranamass. Luke PP is a character that encapsulates the essence of a Generation Z influencer battling self-worth and the ever-present pressure to fit in. His flashy outfits and quirky personality provide ample vehicle for humor, enhanced by a talented supporting cast including Rajesh Madhavan, Suresh Krishna, Siju Sunny, Babu Antony, and Anishma Anilkumar, who bring their A-game to the screen.
Marking his directorial debut, Sivaprasad, alongside co-writer Siju Sunny, has crafted a dark comedy that doesn’t shy away from slapstick humor and situational gags. From a hilarious take on pre-wedding photoshoots in a graveyard to a police officer affectionately dubbed “Tiger Sir” for his fondness for Tiger balm, the film cleverly weaves pop culture references into its comedic fabric.
However, the film does have its flaws, particularly with pacing. While the first act sets the tone with brisk humor, the second half tends to stutter, struggling to maintain the same momentum. Nevertheless, the unique quirks of the characters ensure the narrative remains engaging—even when the pacing falters.
Conclusion: A Fun yet Flawed Adventure
Maranamass ultimately delivers an enjoyable romp through chaos, mixing dark humor with a peek into the quirky life of a self-styled influencer. With standout performances and a well-woven storyline (albeit with a few speed bumps), it’s a film that’s likely to resonate with those looking for a light-hearted yet thrilling experience.
Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Basil Joseph’s work or just on the lookout for offbeat comedy, Maranamass secures its place as a must-watch. Dive in, hold on tight, and prepare for a cinematic journey filled with unexpected twists and, yes, bananas. 🍌
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