Narayaneente Moonnaanmakkal

Narayaneente Moonnaanmakkal (2024) : Movie Review -

Sharan Venugopal presents a family drama that maintains traditional values while crossbreeding them with modern taboos. The film struggles to flow naturally, as the issues between the three brothers are somewhat relatable, but the romantic affair between cousins is inexcusable.

You can't expect me to appreciate a film that depicts a boy getting intimate with his cousin sister. Have the people of Malayalam culture really become so modern as to accept this immorality? If so, then Narayaneente Moonnaanmakkal is a must-watch; however, if you possess a sense of shame and acknowledge the moral correctness of relationships, this film will undoubtedly land on your hate list.

The story follows three brothers who reunite under one roof after years, as their mother is on the verge of passing away. The son of a brother returning from the UK is relatively unaffected before his arrival, and he finds comfort in his cousin sister. The girl, preoccupied with her self-ego, is also grappling with her own inner issues and soon begins to enjoy her cousin brother's company.

As their parents battle over property, the two cousins commence a romantic affair. When things start to smooth over, this immoral relationship ruins everything. Will they be able to reconcile? The resolution and situational arguments become painfully predictable. Yet, you might find it enjoyable for a while until your own moral values compel you to dislike it.

The film features commendable acting, with everyone delivering notable performances. Joju George, Suraj Venjaramoodu, and Alencier Ley Lopez anchor the film, and all three have done a fantastic job. Although I disliked their characters for endorsing a scandalous romance, I couldn't fault Garggi Ananthan and Thomas Mathew for their performances; they appeared quite charming at many moments. I just wish they had remained siblings and had not become lovers. Shelly Kishore and Sajitha Madathil provided fine support.

Narayaneente Moonnaanmakkal is beautifully shot, thanks to the cinematographer. The locations evoke a natural ambiance, and some dialogues add an intellectual dimension as well. However, the film lacks emotional depth, particularly concerning death and past memories; it feels artificial, unlike recent sensations such as Meiyazhagan, which resonated as warm and heartfelt. Sharan Venugopal hasn't made any significant missteps other than misjudging the concept. A film depicting Hindu-Muslim marriage as taboo cannot reach such a ludicrous level. It could have been so much better if the modern understanding of moral romance hadn't been compromised.

RATING - 5/10*