Signature Style

It was with great relief that I sat through "Kaiyoppu" for the second time. Films that depict common man and his problems have become such a rarity in Malayalam Cinema. Kaiyoppu and Ore Kadal are the kind of movies that makes the audience feel that not all is lost for genuine movie lovers in Kerala!

What is fascinating about Kaiyoppu is the skill with which the scenarist links the problems of the protagonist and his small group of friends to the one big problem that the nation is facing these days! If you are not conversant with modern English literature and are not a book lover, you will probably not understand the passion that the lead characters share for literature. References to modern stalwarts like Isadora Duncan and Umberto Yaco are in plenty and the script writer also leaves no chance to pooh- pooh the psyche of the average Malayalee who is moving away from the realities of life!

Jaffer Idukki's characterization proves a winner. Mukesh and Neena Kurup share a delightful chemistry and appear to be rejoicing at the opportunity to play characters that are real and identifiable. Mammootty adds another golden feather to his already overcrowded cap with his subtle portrayal of Balachandran- his helplessness and goodness have been very well expressed by the gifted actor. However, it is Khushboo who lingers in the heart of the viewers with her mature, good looks and effortless performance. Vimmy Mariam George does a good job with the dubbing.

And this is one movie where all technical departments have worked well together- Manoj Pillay's camera, Beena Paul Venugopal's editing, Vidyasagar's background score, Saburam's Art Direction- everything is first rate! Renjith deserves a special pat on his shoulders for bringing alive that forgotten Talat Mahmood melody- "Jalte Hain Jiske Liye"- which has been soulfully rendered by Gayathri. Watch out for the song picturization- you can watch it over and over again- just like the short movie which leaves a poignant message behind!