Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea

Marakkar Lion Of The Arabian Sea (2021) : Brief Review -

The IQ Level of National Award Juries must be lower than the Temperature during Winter Season In India. I actually don't care about award shows, not just Indian but also International ones. I even have problems with Oscars (please note I have seen all 93 Oscar winners films to say that). When Marakkar won National Award, it didn't excite me at all. Only two reasons for me to watch this film were Mohanlal and Malayalam cinema's attempt to make a visual granduer. There are hardly few legendary films made in this genre, the best remains Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha (1989), and now after watching Marakkar I can easily say that Malayalam cinema will never be able to make a magnum opus like that. Marakkar is grand, it has big structure but lacks soul. Priyadarshan terribly mediocre vision has caused heavy collapse. I found it interesting for like two hours, everything was looking decent, but then the last hour spoiled the party. The climax was damn outdated. Even 80s ans 90s' Malayalam films had better cliches than this. Offtrack Mohanlal struggles but somehow survives. For me, this man is the biggest legend from Mollywood. He has given so many cult films and outstanding performances during his prime phase- Late 80s, 90s and 00s. To watch him doing hardcore action in classic films like 'Keeradam' 'Yodha' 'Spadikam', 'Kala Paani', 'Aaraam Thapuran' was an experience, but watching him doing action at this age with such physics didn't look suitable. Priyadarshan just did not care about the outcome, he just made for his own sake. However, Marakkar is not a headache, it's a decent film but the kind of undeserving hype they created deserved some heavy slaughtering and that's what I've tried to do. Overall, strictly average. Grand but not Good. Somewhat interesting but not fascinating.

RATING - 5/10*

By - #samthebestest.

Overview: "Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham" is a cinematic spectacle that boasts intense action sequences, commendable performances, and a storyline that, while thin, serves as a backdrop for the film's visual grandeur.

Visuals: The film's visual composition is nothing short of stunning, with each frame resembling a meticulously crafted painting. The combined efforts of the cinematography team, art department, and director are deserving of high praise for creating such a visually arresting experience.

Special Effects: The VFX work in "Marakkar" is arguably the finest within the Malayalam film industry to date. In contrast to other high-budget Indian films, "Marakkar" exercises restraint in its CGI usage, opting for a balanced blend of visual effects and practical effects that enhance the narrative without overshadowing it-a decision that will likely age well over time.

Design and Artistry: Both costume design and art direction are standout elements, successfully navigating the director's vision of a story that is 30% historical and 70% fictional. The film's aesthetic choices effectively support this creative balance.

Music and Performances: The soundtrack adds an enjoyable layer to the film's atmosphere, while the cast delivers solid performances across the board, despite some characters receiving limited screen time.

Narrative Challenges: However, the film's narrative is encumbered by an excess of characters who fail to justify their presence, leading to a bloated runtime and a sluggish pace. Those seeking a traditional historical drama may find themselves underwhelmed, as the film lacks emotionally resonant moments with its protagonist, Kunjali Marakkar IV, save for the intense final sequence and ending song.

Authenticity: A notable shortcoming is the film's inability to authentically reflect its historical setting. The dialogue lacks period-specific nuances, often indistinguishable from contemporary vernacular, which detracts from the immersive experience.

Screenplay and Theme Music: The screenplay's mediocrity is a significant detriment, undermining the film's potential impact. Additionally, while the theme music is functional and occasionally evocative, its repetitive nature is noticeable.

Conclusion: Despite not meeting the lofty expectations set by its pre-release buzz, "Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham" is a commendable effort that showcases the dedication of a large creative team. It represents a bold venture in the Malayalam film industry, with a budget that surpasses typical box office returns.

Verdict: "Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham" is a film best appreciated on the big screen, offering a watchable experience that highlights the fruits of collective ambition and hard work.

Don't expect much from this filim, watch it like a epic movie a real life story without adding any extra items they ve presented well,if u want a movie like kgf or Bahubali don't go for this one u will be disappointed acting of pranv Mohanlal is superb 🔥

Dialogue deliverance not up to the average

Not even a single dialogue to be remembered back

Vfx seems to extremely improved in accordance with Malayalam film industry

Average film 🎞 rather than a big budget promotion film.

As usual director tries to copy other language movie scenes 1)Pirates n bahubali stunt 2) Troy's emotional scene 3) suryas rajubhai suspense Casting- Ammas main members where added and their casting was not apt, which bring comedy in serious situation especially mukesh.

If the movie was directed by rajamouli atleast the copied( which I mentioned above) area could have been better.

When the war starts camera starts shaking...

Overall for malayalam movie it was a great effort which is not good movie comparing to other language movies.

One time watchable 6.5/10.