Manjadikuru

It is rather baffling why such a wonderful work of art would not be allowed to be enjoyed by the viewers for a long time after its creation. Because that's what Manjadikuru is: a genuinely enjoyable, memorable and poignant movie. Anjali Menon has proved what a true film director she is. Because good movies are always the products of good directors. All the others come later. It was so reassuring to have watched this film in theatre after all the fatigue and frustration one normally endures as a result of watching circus that some misguided filmmakers dare to call a feature film. The storyline of Manjadikuru is something anybody can connect to; in fact, I think even the non-Malayalis would appreciate this beautiful film. The performances by the seasoned actors- Murali, Urvasi, Kaviyur Ponnamma, Rahman, Jagathy etc. are superlative. Thilakan imposes his presence like no other, even if he doesn't have a single line to utter. The children virtually steal the show from the seniors. In the end, the emotional flow of the movie did manage to bring a smile on one's face as well as a lump in one's throat. Ms. Menon, Thank you.

Anjali Menon tries to see a lot of goodness around us which are otherwise left unnoticed. Her close observation of a typical Kerala society is beautifully manifested in the film. She could portray shades of relationships in a single family impressively. The perspective she selected to tell the story(that of children at a funeral) is interesting. I always wondered what goes in the mind of the 'happy' children at a funeral where the elders are sad or pretending to be sad and serious. The special care she took to unveil the plight of women characters is outstanding. The film is able to make the audience think with its mild satire of the life around us.

one of the finest ,sweetest and brilliant films of all times.. takes us back to our childhood when even funerals were turned out into opportunities to play with our cousins and have a family get together.. On the other side it shows the greed and selfish nature of the people for money and wealth. The characterization of each and every one is perfect and it depicts the dark as well as brighter sides of the characters. The realistic approach to the making makes it even more enjoyable and the cute little children makes everyone smile with their every move...Any other rating than excellent will not be suiting for this movie..

This is a coming-of-age story starring Master Sidharth and Rahman in key roles.

Prithviraj Sukumaran as the Sutradhar also plays a key role.

The film revolves around the experiences of a young Vicky who - when visiting his ancestral home upon the death of his Muthachhan - is exposed to various facets of relationships.

The character sketches are very well written and relatable. No one is completely good. And no one is completely bad. And despite knowing right from wrong, no adult is able to stick to it. And even though doing what is right, inexperience has the better of the young children - at a heavy price.

Even with so many stories woven into one - most of them depicted only to the extent needed and to get the full context of the character, ending in an inevitable tragic developement of events - the ending is heart warmingly happy.

Rahman as the "wronged" son - who then does a wrong to earn respect from his father - shines in a restrained performance. His last scene where he blesses young Vicky, eyes welled up speak of his untold grief at how things have ended up. A scene that will definitely choke you.

Do not miss this film by writer-director Anjali Menon, definitely her best!

Anjali Menon proves herself that she is not idiosyncratic. Ustad Hotel had bought references. And now this... its plot is based on popular property disputes around the world. What Manjadikuru lacks & why I rate it a meager 5/10 is because of its clichéd plot & poor editing.

It is poignant in its style & narration. Its cast is one of the best I have seen. Their performances are good, too. The children steal the show, for sure but I am impressed by Urvashi & Rahman. Prithviraj is invisible. It was a treat to watch Murali (I actually saw the movie after his death) & Thilakan.

But, since the base is fully borrowed, it creates no dent in the universe. Children not caring about their folks & solely coveting the property inheritance is so ordinary. While, it emotionally touches the viewer, the real emotion is that of being dejected & fooled. By the end you realize that the primary & secondary plots are very commonplace & the makers haven't done anything except for the locations & cinematography. Humor is average.

BOTTOM LINE: I am disappointed. Nothing new!

Can be watched with a typical Indian family? YES

Profanity/Nudity/Sex: No | Violence/Gore: No | Smoking/Alcohol: Mild