One should take extra care while experimenting in motion picture. Considering the fact that the film is terribly long (at 150 minutes), Ithihasa fails to punch a mark in any of these minutes as badly written tedium accompanies most of the scenes.
Telling the story of a gender swap between a thief (guy) and a reserved IT professional (gal), the film takes you on a slightly comedic relief as the swapping happens due to some occult science theory. While I appreciate the genre-defining science fiction element the writers have implemented, but not much is talked about it. The story dwells on crass and filth, and most of the time underlines stereotypes about men and women in general, specifically in Kerala. It wouldn't come as a shocker that the bodies in question fall for each other and the narration picks up predictability in the climax.
Shine Tom Chacko may be a good actor for a masculine role, but playing a woman here, he cramps his own style and overacts. Anusree, on the other hand, is the real star in the whole film. She may have been given one too many unfathomable stunt sequences for her character, but I liked how she picks the role up. Supporting actors are the cause of humor, and relief from the monotony.
All said and done, the film moves very slowly, forcing you to yawn and take a stroll in a nearby park while the reel rolls. Songs were unnatural, and there isn't much to talk about the poor direction.
BOTTOM LINE: Appreciate the idea of introducing science fiction into Malayalam cinema, but so much like its predecessors, Ithihasa fails.
Can be watched with a typical Indian family? YES
