Pani(2024) - A decent attempt that fails to rise above outdated tropes and missed potential.
Directed by: Joju George
Starring: Joju George, Sagar Surya, Junaiz VP, Abhinaya, Bobby Kurian, Abhaya Hiranmayi
Genres: Action, Crime, Drama
Categories: Malayalam Featured, Malayalam Movies 2024
Country: India
Language: Malayalam
Synopsis:
Pani is an action-thriller set in the underworld of Thrissur. The story revolves around Giri (Joju George), a powerful gangster leading a peaceful family life while maintaining his influence in the local criminal world. Trouble arises when two ambitious young criminals take on a quotation job, leading to a clash with Giri’s gang. The ensuing chain of events spirals into a tale of vengeance, betrayal, and consequences.
Strengths:
Direction:
Joju George’s direction is a standout aspect of the film. He effectively captures the gritty underworld setting of Thrissur, blending atmospheric visuals with realistic action sequences.Performance:
Joju George once again showcases his acting prowess with a compelling performance. The supporting cast, including Sagar Surya and Junaiz VP, also contribute significantly, though their characters lack enough depth to make them truly memorable.Visual Appeal:
The cinematography effectively captures the essence of Thrissur, adding authenticity to the setting.
Weaknesses:
Weak Plot:
The story feels like a rehash of old-school revenge dramas, offering nothing fresh. The 80s-inspired narrative structure may appeal to a niche audience but lacks the innovation required to resonate with a broader, modern audience.Lack of Character Development:
While Giri’s character is well-crafted, the rest of the cast—especially the antagonists—are underdeveloped. This makes it difficult for viewers to emotionally connect with the characters and their motivations.Disconnected First Act:
The film takes nearly 30 minutes to find its footing, with the initial sequences feeling disjointed and lacking clear direction.Inconsistent Action:
Despite being marketed as an action thriller, Pani features limited action scenes. Most of the violence is concentrated in the final act, which might disappoint audiences expecting a more action-packed narrative.
My Personal Take On Cinema:
Pani is a decent one-time watch, especially for fans of Joju George. The direction and performances elevate the film, but the lackluster story and overused tropes make it fall short of the high standards often associated with Malayalam cinema. The initial promise of an engaging gangster drama fizzles out due to the film’s inability to develop its plot or characters meaningfully.
The film also highlights a broader concern: the overreliance on crime and gangster themes in Malayalam cinema.
Rating:
2.25/5
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