BOTTOM LINE
**Not quite Drishyam, but still a decent watch.**
RATING
2.5/5
CENSOR
U/A, 2h 43m
Plot Overview of *Thudarum*
At the heart of *Thudarum* is **Shanmugam**, affectionately known as **Benz** (played by the legendary Mohanlal). Once a stuntman, Benz now leads a modest life driving an old Ambassador taxi. His journey takes a dramatic turn during a visit to Chennai for his mentor’s funeral, where the local police seize his vehicle. The film unravels Benz’s desperate pleas to reclaim his car amidst unexpected twists, providing a captivating glimpse into the everyday struggles faced by the common man.
Character Depth and Performances
Mohanlal brings his trademark charisma to the role of Benz, showcasing his ability to immerse himself in the character’s **ordinary yet rich** world. Transitioning from high-octane action in *Empuraan*, he masters the nuances of a common man’s life, complete with authentic family dynamics. His performance shines through as he navigates between light-hearted moments and intense emotional layers—truly a testament to his acting prowess.
With Benz’s character starting off talkative but gradually morphing into someone deeply affected by circumstances, Mohanlal captures the **essence of human emotion** seamlessly. This masterful portrayal elevates the film, making it enjoyable for long-time fans and new viewers alike.
**Shobhana**, as Benz’s wife, exudes grace and sophistication, even with limited screen time. She complements the narrative impeccably, her presence adding depth to Benz’s story.
Analysis of Direction and Narrative Flow
Under the guidance of director **Tharun Moorty**, *Thudarum* predominantly unfolds as a drama with **action elements** surfacing towards the climax. While seasoned viewers of Malayalam cinema may find the pacing familiar, the lengthy buildup may deter those less accustomed to such storytelling styles. The film takes its time establishing characters and emotions before introducing the plot’s central intrigue, occurring around the pre-interval mark.
Once the character of **George** enters the narrative, attention shifts back to Benz, revitalizing viewer engagement. While the anticipated twists may feel predictable to seasoned movie-goers, the **emotional depth** of Mohanlal’s character and the tension between him and George injects freshness into this revenge drama.
Emotional Climaxes and Action
The latter half of *Thudarum* successfully melds emotion and action, particularly in the climactic scenes. The heightened tension and emotional confrontations keep the viewer at the edge of their seat, despite the predictability of the outcome. The film ultimately delivers a **satisfying closure**, leaving audiences with a sense of fulfillment.
Supporting Cast and Music
While many supporting actors contribute to the film’s rich tapestry, **Prakash Varma’s** debut as CI George deserves special mention. His portrayal of the antagonist is commendable, adding layers to the narrative with his **intense performance** that beautifully contrasts with Mohanlal’s character.
The musical score, provided by **Jakes Bejoy**, serves its purpose but may not linger in memory, overshadowed by subpar dubbing. The **cinematography** captures the natural beauty of the hilly terrain, contributing to the film’s visual appeal.
Final Impressions
Highlights
- Mohanlal’s compelling performance
- Prakash Varma as CI George
- The gripping final hour
- Intriguing pre-interval and interval sequences
Drawbacks
- Slow start that tests viewers’ patience
- Lag in narrative pacing
- Familiar revenge drama tropes
Enjoyment Factor: Yes, despite its flaws.
Recommendation: Definitely, but keep your expectations in check.
For more insights, check out the full review of *Thudarum* by M9 here.
