Aaram Thamburan (1997)

Highly Overrated But Still Good

A brilliant film that helped define a genre

I think this is a new genre that they're all sort of working their way through it and haven't got all the kinks worked out yet but it's a genre that works for me.

All of these films share one commonality, that being a kind of emotional center that humanizes a cast of monsters.

Mohanlal's most glorified character, one of the most celebrated films in Malayalam, considered a classic and relives in peoples mind through countless imitations and pop culture references. Through all this, sure it is enjoyable with memorable one liners, great songs and stylish visuals that can only be seen in Malayalam films. But all that doesn't change the fact that it is a completely ridiculous film with a ludicrous plot and laughably on your face cheesy dialogues. How it works is how unabashedly it is a fanfare for actor Mohanlal. It is a complete ode to him with characters always praising him while he does all the impossible tasks. Another problem that I find in most old Malayalam films is the idiotic use of background music. Though I did enjoy parts of it most of it is so cringe but the iconic scenes that are always being referenced are good to watch out of context.The success of this film churned out a lot of similar films which started the dark period in Malayalam cinema where everything faltered and the industry was losing all the hope and newcomers changed the industry for good, thinking these as classics is not going to help the industry if it doesn't harm any more.

This movie is really good. Mohanlal sir is one of the best actors ever. He shows his class in every scene. Casting is almost perfect. Manju warrier is cute. Villain is very good. Direction, music, story & screenplay is brilliant. A MUST WATCH.

Malayalaali never forgets the hero of the movie Jagannathan. Bombay's top guy who comes back years after coming to his hometown to commit suicide by suing his father. The film develops through the crisis that he faces in the name of the owner who bought the man who bought him on his behalf and when the decision is made to hold a sideline.

Aaraam thamburaan changed the face of action movies in malayalam cinema of that time.It excels in every part.May it be acting,music,location,camera,casting,story,screenplay this movie will blow you away with its brilliance. It has a rock solid story & screenplay written by Ranjith, who penned other great movies combined with excellent direction by Shaji kailas.Mohanlal is the highlight of this movie. He delivers an outstanding performance. His diversity can be experienced from this movie. His majestic presence itself boosts the viewers to another level.Another highlight of this movie is the role of 'Kulappulli Appan' done by late Narendra prasad. It remains a classic villain portrayal in malayalam cinema.Manju warrier, one of the most talented actress Indian cinema has ever seen, puts up a clinical performance.Late, Oduvil unnikrishnan also stands out with his brilliant acting.Music by late Raveendran master is classic. All the songs in the movie are evergreen hits.Overall this movie is a must see if you love Indian cinema.I give it a 9/10.