Bineesh is a heavy smoker who can't give up smoking despite trying several times. This leads to his breakup with his fiancée, Devi, and conflict with her father. Due to the absence of the political party leader his brother-in-law supports, Devi's father is easily selected as the next candidate. However, due to the objection of Bineesh's brother-in-law, Devi's father challenges Bineesh to quit smoking until their human chain project starts. If he succeeds, his brother-in-law will be the next candidate. The two agree, and as part of the plan, Bineesh's brother-in-law traps Bineesh on an island with no cigarettes. The film revolves around how Bineesh tries to overcome his addiction and the challenges that arise from attempting to abandon smoking.
The collaborative performances of the entire cast, the story, cinematography, editing, VFX, production design, and music are the best aspects of the film.
In my first encounter with Tovino Thomas, his acting was decent, though not a masterclass. However, he was committed to his character both physically and mentally. Still, he was brilliant as required by the script. Samyuktha Menon also acted well. Although the script didn't give significant impact to her character, she shines in her limited screen time. Apart from the leads, the rest of the cast delivered collaborative performances, having a similar impact as the two leads. Normally, in films, only the lead actors are highlighted. But here, the supporting cast provided strong support to the script through their wholesome performances. A shout-out goes to the supporting cast: Suraj Venjarammoodu, Sudheesh Surabhi Lakshmi, Saiju Kurup, Rajesh Sharma, Vijilesh Karayad, Neena Kurup, and Mini K. S.
The pace of the film is appropriate, and it didn't feel boring for a single minute. Fellini T. P. appropriately built the main theme of the film, 'chain smoker,' through dramatic, sentimental, and most importantly, humorous moments. He effectively built the right space for Tovino Thomas to portray a heavy smoker. The film is presented as an appealing commercial story with the underlying theme of the social issue of 'smoking.' The dialogues were natural and rustic, but not particularly remarkable. The character development of Bineesh is one of the key elements of the film. His journey from being a heavy smoker, who initially faced disputes over quitting, to deciding to stop smoking on his own without external support, is a notable aspect. And the use of the ashtray as a symbolic object to display Bineesh's growth is also commendable. The climax was unanticipated until the very end, though guessable just before it. However, it is a very inspiring and satisfying climax.
The cinematography employs diverse lighting techniques, from dramatic low-key and stylized colored lighting in interiors and night scenes to natural daylight across expansive landscapes and intimate close-ups. Production design effectively creates distinct settings, including rustic dwellings, natural environments like beaches and backwaters, urban passages, and interiors, occasionally featuring impactful, symbolic props. Visual effects have been utilized for enhancing atmospheric elements. Makeup seems primarily standard for actor presentation and managing shine across different lighting conditions. The editing was creatively smooth, especially in scenes where Devi slaps Bineesh on several occasions, which were presented rapidly. And the visual representation of the sun gradually rising from the darkness on the island was captivating.
The music by Kailas Menon was terrific in both soundtrack and background score. The song 'Jeevamshamayi' by Shreya Ghoshal and K. S. Harisankar was particularly loved, though connection with other songs was less strong. Nevertheless, all the music was well-fitted to the film's atmosphere, in terms of both composition and lyrics. The background score smoothly elevated the story. Sound design was also good.
While 'Theevandi' is a feel-good film with immense comedy, drama, and romance. The best thing about it is that while other films might just make you feel good, this one makes you feel good and simultaneously delivers an important message about quitting smoking by smoothly presenting its consequences from the main character's point of view.
In summary, 'Theevandi' is a feel-good Malayalam film with a significant message. If you are a heavy smoker and yet can't abandon it, just watch this right now.
