Ividam swargamanu ( This is Heaven) is not yet another movie which showcases the lead actor in all glamour and style with little to no content to grip onto.
At a time when the industry was engulfed with star power and masala contents, the man who started it all, Mohanlal, at the peak of his demi god status, took a right turn, as a protagonist in this humble movie as a simpleton farmer.
Mohanlal, amidst all his glory and fame, shows us why he, as an actor, is still considered one of the best in the country.
The strong screenplay and crisp direction is the pillar to this movie- as it should be for all.
The stellar cast- with the best actors portraying even a minor role- polished the story to perfection.
What starts as a simple drama turns to be a thriller in the second half.
Sreenivasan, who played a major role to propel Mohanlal to stardom in 80s and 90s with his screenplays and supporting roles makes a return, but this time, as a strong second protagonist rather than a support role.
Thilakan being the amazing actor he is, brought soul into his character and did a major part in pulling the heart of the viewers into the movie.
Shankar, who was the lead in Mohanlal's debut movie makes a return as his best friend, a good supporting role.
Prem prakash who appeared for a minute or so, did make an impression.
Lalu Alex, though the antagonist, was the star of this movie. Aluva Chandy, the comic yet threatening villain, was tailor made for him. Most of the laughs in this movie are provided in the second half by the antagonists- including the impeccable Jagathy Sreekumar, Maniyanpilla Raju and Baiju Ezhupunna.
Gopi sunder's bgm and Super Subbarayan's stunts- were highlights
Thanks to James Albert and Rosshan Andrews- for the script and direction- for reminding us the actors not stars are the stronghold of a movie- for reminding Malayalam industry hasn't lost its magic.
Ividam swargamanu is not just the title- it's the feeling the viewers get after the movie.
Hope to see more of such films.
