Halal Love Story

The standards set by Zakariya's debut movie 'Sudani from Nigeria' is so high that there's little chance he can achieve it again. Halal Love Story is a good second attempt by him. This movie has problems that his first movie didn't have. The performances is the best aspect of the movie. All actors have outdone themselves. The music and songs are also good and helped with the overall pace and mood of the movie. Overall, this is a cute little movie which has it's moments and is watchable for it. You'll be contend

It's just a simple movie that made me smile and filled my heart with happiness. Nothing more, nothing less. And that smile on my face, that happiness in my heart, means a lot to me.

A beautiful story woven around simple people.. creates a refreshing impact. Though it seemed a wafer thin story line but director got the grip tighten post interval. The similarity between "Sudani from Nigeria" is striking since the directors take on human relationship has been the forte of this movie as well. Special mention of the growth of sharfuddin as an actor is awe inspiring. Rest of performances by the supporting cast is commendable to.

Great performances by Grace Antony, Joju George, Sharafudeen, Indrajith, and the other character actors as well. Casting has been done well as well.

Subtle and original humor all through the movie.

Against the backdrop of humor, sudden presentations of problems in the characters' lives has been done naturally and convincingly.

While the movie seems to take it's time presenting humor with the process of shooting, it suddenly gets into deeper aspects of actor training, and leverages that to get into the actual life of the characters.

Context of the movie has a very specific islamic background, and hence there is a certain lack of universal reach from that perspective as compared to Zakariya's previous movie "Sudani from Nigeria" which had much more access.

The relationship theme choice is unique and impressive. It is mostly a political satire, and hence is not as much heart as Sudani, but definitely a crafty and original venture from Zakariya. Some of the material from the making process of Sudani has most likely made it's way into the theme of Halal.

Its something very new. Some people might get irritated. People who are not open minded won't be able to enjoy it. Those who are not secular, this is not something for you. This is local, a malabari version of some views. It's different its good. But could have been better within the limits