User reviews

Barroz: Guardian of D'Gama's Treasure, directed by Mohanlal, is an ambitious fantasy film that explores themes of legacy, loyalty, and adventure. Here's a quick review:

Plot: The film revolves around Barroz, a centuries-old guardian of a hidden treasure linked to Vasco da Gama. Tasked with safeguarding the treasure until it reaches its rightful heir, Barroz encounters an intriguing mix of characters, including a young girl who changes his perspective. The narrative blends mythology, history, and fantasy, offering a fresh concept for Indian cinema.

Highlights: Mohanlal's Direction: As his directorial debut, Mohanlal takes a bold step into the fantasy genre. His vision and attention to detail are evident in the grandeur of the film's setting and its emotional depth.

Visual Effects: The film's VFX is commendable, creating an immersive experience that brings the magical world of Barroz to life. From the treasure's mystical aura to the elaborate set designs, the visuals are a treat.

Performances: Mohanlal shines as Barroz, blending charisma, intensity, and subtle humor. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, adding layers to the story.

Music and Sound Design: The background score and songs complement the narrative, enhancing the adventurous and emotional tones of the film.

Shortcomings: Pacing: The story occasionally drags, with some scenes feeling overly drawn-out, which may test the patience of the audience.

Complexity: While the concept is intriguing, the mix of mythology and fantasy might feel convoluted to some viewers, making it challenging to follow.

Final Thoughts: Barroz is a visually stunning and heartfelt attempt at bringing an epic fantasy story to life. While it has its flaws, Mohanlal's passion and commitment shine through, making it a unique experience for fans of Indian cinema. It's a commendable first directorial effort and a step forward in exploring unconventional genres in Malayalam movies.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)

CONGRATULATIONS🎉 You get to see the world through the eyes of Mohanlal. If you can appreciate a child's sincere, innocent first painting, then you will appreciate this movie. True treasure is beyond what you do or do, it's who you are. Sometimes you make no sense to the world, but your pure intention counts. Just as Barroz. Thanks Laletta. You were always that pure kid at heart. You made me meet with my innocent self and loved ones again. Your message what true treasure means is something I will carry with me forever.

Dear Parents, do enjoy this movie with your children. It is truly a Christmas treat. In a way you get to appreciate a wonderful time spent together with your family and take a beautiful message back home. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Barroz is a departure from the quintessential Mohanlal cinematic experience. Fans expecting the actor's signature punch dialogues, comedy sequences, or emotionally charged moments may find themselves adjusting their expectations. This is not your typical Mohanlal movie, but rather a carefully crafted directorial debut that ventures into the world of fantasy.

As a debutant director, Mohanlal doesn't just meet expectations-he delivers with precision and expertise honed over 48 years in front of the camera. His understanding of shot composition and camera angles is evident throughout the film, making his transition to the director's chair seamless.

The film's art direction is spectacular, and the 3D visuals are nothing short of a cinematic treat. The negative characters shine with memorable performances that bring depth to the narrative. However, not all characters hit the mark, and a few comedic sequences feel forced and uninspired, detracting slightly from the overall experience.

At its heart, Barroz is a Portuguese folk tale that children are bound to love. For adults, it's an enchanting, one-time-watch fantasy story that feels like stepping into a beautifully illustrated fable. Clocking in at 2 hours and 34 minutes, the film's pacing allows the story to unfold naturally, though it might feel a bit stretched for some viewers.

Overall, Barroz is a visually stunning film that showcases Mohanlal's potential as a storyteller while delivering a unique cinematic experience. If approached with the right mindset, it's a journey worth taking.

Barroz - Guardian of Treasures

Rating - 3.5/5

An imaginary fantasy tale portraying obedience and loyalty to the royal highness by the ghost Barroz - Custodian of treasures across generations.

The story revolves around Barroz, the ghost who has been assigned with the duty of guarding the treasures by Lord D'Gama in the 17th century and how he overcomes the obstacles & odds coming his way for 4 centuries and whether he will succeed in finding the true successor forms the base for the storyline.

Mohanlal through his directorial debut has pulled off a visual spectacle. He has effortlessly visualised the story penned by Jijo Punnoose onto the screen with utmost care and precision giving a great cinematic experience. He has brilliantly conveyed emotions, pain, trust, loyalty, love & empathy through the story. The filmmakers have also put light on the myths and superstitions persisting in both centuries through the story. A simple storyline is moulded into a splendid movie with handpicked casting and technical brilliance. The director has detailed on the emotional connection between Barroz & Isa as well as given good character arc for the key characters in the movie.

Exceptional performance by The Complete Actor as Barroz - The Ghost. Impressive performances were made by Ignacio Mateos(Lord D'Gama),Cesar Lorente Raton(Mendoza),Joshua Okesalako(Black Magician),Guru Somasundaram,Amal(Chotta)& Maya Rao West(Isa). The performances and the dialogues of Voodoo, the animated character is worth mentioning which adds to some funny moments.

Santosh Sivan has brilliantly captured the magical visuals,underwater sequences and the celebrative vibes of the people in Goa. Santosh Raman's efforts in building the attic and giving it an antique look is worth mentioning. Impressive efforts by Jyoti Madnani Singh for Costume Design and Liju Pamamcode for his efforts in Make Up.

A good movie with beautiful visual narration by Mohanlal highlighting the timeless significance of promise,loyalty and trust. A must watch on big screens with family to witness the rich cinematic experience gained by Mohanlal over 46 years.