aavesham (film, 2024) ↑
The trailer of Aavesham promised an all-out entertainer starring Fahadh Faasil. Director Jithu Madhavan's previous film, Romancham, was also a unique comedy thriller, so I had high expectations from him.
The story follows three college guys - Aju, Bibi, and Shanthan - who are struggling to fit in at their new engineering college in Bangalore. They get regularly bullied and ragged by the senior students led by Kutty. Fed up with the constant harassment, the trio hatch a plan for revenge. They decide they need some local muscle to help even the odds, and that's when Rowdy Ranga, played by Fahadh, enters the picture.
Right from the start, Fahadh commands your attention as Ranga. Clad entirely in white with his quirky mannerisms on display, he grabs you with his unique screen presence. The way he switches seamlessly between emotive, devilish, and comical is commendable. His performance is easy to understand, which makes it look effortless. One of the best things is that he does full justice to the mass elements without compromising his usual earnest acting style. Equally impressive are the layers he brings to the character. Under the bravado lies a lonely man longing for friendship.
While Fahadh steals the show, the film belongs as much to Sajin Gopu, who plays Ranga's funny sidekick, Ambaan. His comedic timing and dialogue delivery had me in splits. You can feel the camaraderie between Fahadh and Sajin, translated on-screen. Other supporting actors are also good in their respective roles.
Cinematographer Sameer Thahir's visuals are vibrant, with perfect use of lighting and angles. Whether it's establishing shots of the city or closeups during action sequences - the camerawork is top-notch. Equally impactful is Sushin Shyam's rousing soundtrack, which enhances every moment.
When it comes to action, the stunt choreography and fights are impressively shot. The brawl during Holi celebrations is among the best punch-up scenes I have seen recently. The climax action blocks involving Ranga had the energy and ferocity of a commercial potboiler. Kudos to the entire action team.
Ultimately, Aavesham is a flick that doesn't take itself too seriously. Jithu Madhavan keeps the narrative peppy with adequate twists and turns. The balance between mass elements, comedy, and emotional beats is struck perfectly. There is no unnecessary melodrama. If you are a Malayalee, I recommend watching this one for fun, laughs, and mass moments.