User reviews

Padavettu depicts the essence of Indian politics through the struggles of a rural village and a protagonist who rises up to the occasion after living the longest time in his own failures. The film brilliantly draws out the characters, their existence in the land and the different sides of politics very clearly.

All the characters are very flawed in their own ways which are also very realistic and relatable. I've seen other films that have shown similar character arcs like that of Nivin in this film. But what made this really different is that there were many moments in this film where in another film it would be a point where he starts doing something different. But here, his fears and doubts are given so much focus all the while he arrogantly walks away from everything he should be facing. It felt so real and raw that he took this much time to do something and even when he does something it doesn't change everything immediately. The time taken for the transition made it feel very real.

Talking about the politics of the film, on one side there are genuine politicians who are still in the trappings of being a politician with decades of political culture that still drags down their ideologies. They do the work in the way they know and are comfortable with. Which is not really that great for the common people at first glance. On the other side, there are those who see this as the opportunity to rise up and take the power using the power they have with money, ultimately aiming to make even more money. These businessmen may not only use sweet words and investments into the people like the movie says loud but also uses various methods to create a divide between the people to their own benefit.

It's also worth noting that this film also uses the myths of the land like Theyyam at times and even wild boars like the recent Kannada film Kantara even though this doesn't really have any mystical element in this and uses them as metaphors that are motivating.

The plot is not really anything new to Malayalam cinema. But the way the different aspects are explored in the movie makes it one of the best attempts to use this plot. But the biggest positive of the movie being the exploration of those aspects ends up as the negative too in a way. When the movie ends and says to be continued, it really feels like half a movie that ended at a great interval punch. There are a lot of characters that are only explored enough as in the first half of a movie and need more exploration. The politics, as strong as the movie depicted it, could only be completed with the rest of the story. With the not-so-great box office collection and other issues in the background of the film, that doesn't look too hopeful.

I haven't liked Nivin's film since 2017, and there were films that makes one feel like he has forgotten acting. However, this film is different, it is much fair. From the nature of the story and scenes, I believe the actor just had to act, cause everything else went like a clockwork along with it. Supporting actors were also good. His mother's sister and the old guys (I wish someone would add their names too) were really good. I wish Shammi's character was a bit more menacing, then the drama might have been a bit more fatty. Also, thanks for not making the film super political and for not signalling any parties messages, thanks for using plot devices solely for storytelling. Thanks for telling the messages of grit through the person rather than using a political party. A much appreciative work and wouldn't have hurt if more elements of grit from the protagonist and personal viciousness from villains were added. I didn't know that LK was one of those who abused people for personal fun. I know a lot who does, and a lot of them who keeps Vaashi films explanation of laws related to abuse close to their heart, and have formed it as the legitimate basis for abusing more people.

This was a good political movie. The movie effectively tries to show how politicians interfere in our life if we don't intrrfere in politics. The technical department does a amazing job. The set design done in this movie is marvelous. The place they show as nivin paulys house, goes through a lot of changes in this movie. The major conflicts starts and ends in nivin paulys house. The way they show the changes of the house was so good and convincing. So a huge shoutout to all thoes who did the set design. The cinematography is superb. The landscapes, the crowd all was nicely shot. The geography itself becomes a very important character. Nivin pauly, shammi thilagan, remya suresh all give a nice performance. As a debut director, judging from this movie, I have a lot of hope in liju krishna. I am really looking forward to his next project.

The issue with the movie is some parts of it's writing. Especially the second half, the movie takes a lot of time to establish nivin paulys characters arc and that felt a lot distracting from the main plot and both the plots don't feel blended organically. I feel it would have been nice if they would have explored more on how the political parties take advantage on poor farmers and exploit the nature. That would have made the climax much more satisfactory. They take their time with the setup. Could have reduced that. Aditi balan was so underused, feels bad to see such talented actress barely doing anything.

Padavettu is a film that aspires to delve deep into themes of personal struggle and societal change, presenting a story that's firmly rooted in its setting. The film's grounded storytelling is one of its standout features, offering a realistic portrayal of rural life that feels authentic and immersive. It's a story that aims to reflect the challenges and aspirations of its characters in a way that resonates with the audience. However, despite these positives, the film struggles to maintain its momentum, leaving me with mixed feelings.

The film opens with promise, setting up a narrative that feels both intimate and epic. The cinematography captures the essence of the rural landscape beautifully, enhancing the film's realistic tone. There are moments where the storytelling shines, drawing me into the world and the characters' lives. The film's attention to detail in depicting its setting and the nuances of everyday life is commendable.

However, the film falters with its pacing. The story unfolds at a sluggish pace, making it challenging to stay engaged throughout its runtime. At times, I found myself waiting for the plot to pick up, only to be met with prolonged sequences that felt more meandering than meaningful. This slow pace, combined with a plot that can be hard to follow, detracts from the overall impact of the film. The narrative occasionally becomes muddled, making it difficult to fully grasp the characters' motivations and the story's direction.

Another significant drawback is the film's lead character, who comes across as unlikable and hard to empathize with. While complex, flawed protagonists can be compelling, this particular character lacks the depth needed to make his journey relatable. His decisions and actions often left me feeling disconnected, which is a shame considering the film's potential to explore meaningful themes.

The supporting cast, while delivering competent performances, are sometimes underutilized. There are glimpses of interesting character dynamics and subplots that could have added depth to the story but remain underexplored. This leaves certain aspects of the film feeling incomplete, as though some narrative threads were left dangling without resolution.

Despite its shortcomings, Padavettu offers moments of brilliance that hint at what could have been a powerful narrative. The film's grounded storytelling and visual appeal are its strongest assets, providing a glimpse into a world that's both familiar and new. However, these positives are overshadowed by pacing issues, a hard-to-follow plot, and an unlikable lead character, making it a film that falls short of its potential.

The feeling of watching a good movie after many days.

Good story and good screenplay. Director liju krishna succeeded in conveying the facts without distorting the film as it is a film discussing politics.

Nivin Pauly is very happy to have chosen a different role after a long time. No doubt this character will always be the talk of the town.

Mother and son love felt very emotional in a single moment. The love scenes were also very good.

Sunnywayne,shine tom chacko also handled their roles well.

There is no doubt that the other actors handled their roles beautifully.

Govind vasantha had done his background score well and the song had a good feel.

Although there are some new characters in the film, it is certain that some will not be forgotten so soon.

My country is my soil.

Its a good film discussing about the present political scenerios with brilliant performance from all the actors. Theater experience of Last 10-20min was just💥. Even though the director is a debutant but the film is another level. #LijuKrishna #Nivin #ShammyThilakan #GovindVasantha The background scores was just amazing👏 Overall a good theater experience.👏💥 #PaisaVasool. Its one of the best malayalam film i recently watched. And its a such kind of movie which is to be experienced in theater.

Making screenplay Dop bgms performance all were just outstanding.

Nivin Pauly the performer once again revealed his acting skills.

A politically biased movie, to be honest can be entertained if you're a extreme leftist. If the movie was set on 70s or 80s, it would have been little meaningful, but this clearly indicates the biased political agenda of the makers. Being a person from Kannur where the movie is set, it clearly doesn't hold any similarity with the things really happening.

Pros: Background music is fantastic.

Making is good, and acting too.

If the movie had set in a secular background this could have been enjoyed more. Depicting a specific political entity to be fraud and an another one as the only party interested in people welfare - this is some kind of an idea that can be seen only in the ads or politically funded movies. Unfortunately this is what we see here. Atleast we should all admit there are good as well as bad people in all political organisations, depicting a specific party as troublemaker can't be admittable.

The movie discusses a relevant topic of the current society in a very pleasant manner. The movie was a great experience with its storyline, screenplay, cast and best performance of the actors. The movie speaks about the illegal activities that some political parties do to get power and influence within the general public. Thanks to the direction, the movie had a very pleasant first half and the transformed second half where the main idea of the movie is conveyed to the viewers. The cinematography was also awesome and the movie was able to build the imaginary village in the minds of the views. Overall quality of the movie was great.

The script was immature and direction was without any 'direction'. Waiting throughout the boring 1st half is not worthy enough once you get into 2nd half. Co-stars were just okay, but Nivin Pauly was a disappointment again. He hasnt been able to perform well in last 4 yrs. Shammi Thilakan, Sudheesh did well though. But the failure of the movie falls on the shoulders of writer/director who ended up making this into a sensless movie which failed to convey some good views about politics and society. Some sub-plots in the movie didnt make any sense too.

I dont recommend anyone to watch it in OTT let alone in theatres.

An intense drama, the theme is a great eye-opener for common people with rooted story telling ! Hat's off to Liju Krishna (not considering the legal battle in his personal life) and Mind Blowing BGM from Govind Vasantha

1. Why Nivin Pauly isn't recognised at a pan Indian level ?

2. Topics covered in my mind (High-speed survey stone, twenty-twenty, quarry mafia, tree-felling scam, corporate supporting political leaders, youth of our country, Kannur political rivalry, Religion/culture/ Development based fake politics, Wild life encroachment, Farmers of our country, Land and Ecosystem based politics and Lack of backing for atheletics/sports in our state) while watching this movie.

Amazing cinematography and bgm... realistic characters but with a fairy tale touch... what a brilliant director LK is! My second favorite director after LJP in malayalam cinema!!! Very artistic move! So times we are confused with the story and think what this director is trying to say but if we understand that is the way director is trying to portrait the characters like in a fairy tale and it is very artistic! Dont watch the movie expecting like a typical old generation movies but this one is director's brilliance and we need to watch from his angle. Then we can really enjoy the art in the film.

The story was not bad but the screenplay dragged each scene with unnecessary shots that it became impossible to even pretend to like the film... Too much slowmo in the last fight, in fact the whole fight was in slow-motion. Story writing style was pretty old where things were being explained on atom level, c'mon, we are living in net age. People understand things faster than the speed of light.

However I liked the casting. Shine could've been used better or a bit more of his involvement would have been great.

Overall an average flick... People who watch movies based on the lead actor in the film would like it a lot 'cause Nivin has done a great job.

Highly recommend this movie. Direction , screen play , casting, music and performances are excellent. This movie highlights the political realities of kerala. There are moments that are dark, yet uplifting and positive. Nivin pauly showcased a powerful performance with great energy and strong emotions. The movie was able to present kerala's agriculture potential while empowering young men to take up farming and improve their society.

Pauly is an asset to the malayalam industry and needs to keep going on this strong acting path. A very versatile actor, no doubt.

The relationship between pauly and his girlfriend could have been developed more. That is the only thing that needed to be improved. Other than that, a solid uplifting movie!