Ponman

Let's start with the positive aspects of the film. In terms of performances, everyone delivered a solid act, especially Basil and Sajin Gopu. Anand, who played the character of Bruno, and Sandhya Rajendran, who played the mother, also stood out with their performances. Another highlight was Justin Varghese's music, which I personally enjoyed.

Speaking about the story, the film is based on Indugopan's novel Nalanju Cheruppakkar, and for a debut directorial attempt by Jyothish Shankar, it has been executed quite well.

Now, if there are positives, there will naturally be some negatives too. When adapting a novel into a film, certain cinematic elements need to be added to enhance the experience. However, this film feels like an exact translation of the novel, which is why the second half felt a bit underwhelming. As an audience, we expect certain developments, but they never materialize.

For example, the conflict between Basil and Sajin Gopu's characters regarding Ponnu was left unresolved. Another instance is the mention of Thalavettichira, which initially created fear and intrigue but ultimately amounted to nothing. These elements, if developed better, could have elevated the film.

The climax, too, could have used a bit more intensity and depth. If some additional dramatic elements were included, the film could have been a perfect package.

That being said, it's still worth a watch. These are purely my personal opinions, and others may have a different perspective.

Emotional family drama portrayed through brilliant screenplay and exceptional performances.

The plot of the story revolves around the Gold dowry system prevailing in the marriage institution set on the backdrop of a coastal town in Kollam and how a Gold broker gets entangled in an emotional and survival protest among two families forms the crux of the story.

Speaking about the story, the film is based on Indu Gopan's novel Nalanju Cheruppakkar, and for a debut directorial attempt by Jyothish Shankar, it has been executed quite well. Collectively Good Performance from all the actors ! Strong roles for both Sajin Gopu & Lijo mol Jose.

Ponman is an absolute cinematic triumph, blending an enthralling screenplay with masterful direction and a compelling story. From start to finish, the film keeps you hooked, never allowing a single dull moment. Basil Joseph delivers a heart-winning performance, bringing depth and sincerity to his role, while Sajin Gopu is a revelation, his devilish presence and single, unwavering expression transform him into a true monster on screen. The rest of the cast also shines, each performance adding weight to the film's gripping narrative.

What makes Ponman truly stand out is its ability to address the dowry culture without turning into a preachy, message-driven film. Instead, it weaves its social commentary seamlessly into the plot, ensuring the storytelling remains engaging rather than didactic. The film's tight pacing, flawless execution, and emotional intensity make it an absolute must-watch. With its powerful themes and exceptional performances, Ponman earns a well-deserved 8.5 out of 10.

Rating - 4.5/5

A raw, intriguing and emotional family drama portrayed through brilliant screenplay and exceptional performances.

The plot of the story revolves around the Gold dowry system prevailing in the marriage institution set on the backdrop of a coastal town in Kollam and how a Gold broker gets entangled in an emotional and survival protest among two families forms the crux of the story.

Hats off to you Jothish Shankar in envisioning the story penned by G R Indugopan and delivering an absolutely brilliant movie on screen along with Justin Mathew. This movie has got life in it. The filmmakers has effortlessly landed the audience to the backdrop of Kollam and its underdog culture through the opening folklore song and coastal settings. The first 15 mins moves steadily forming background for the story to take shape and progress while the latter half giving too many enlightening and satisfying moments through articulate dialogues that leaves you awe,surprised and inspired. The director has placed peak moments for both the lead actors in the story showing their head on head performances. This movie is a clear example of how well a realistic story plot can be put to life connecting family drama,emotions,betrayal, brotherhood,friendship in perfect harmony.

Spectacular performances by Basil & Lijomol showing distinct layers of their characters. Stunning performance by Sajin Gopu and his body language,mannerisms and the way he conveys his emotions through his eyes was outstanding. Anand Manmadhan has given a career breaking performance in this movie as an underdog. Sandhya Rajendran who played the mother character has also made an impressive delivery. Deepak Parambol,Reju Sivadas,Jaya Kurup & Kiran Peethambaran also made notable performances.

Marvellous and realistic frames by the veteran Sanu John Varghese along with Justin's impressive songs and BGM's elevated the movie experience. Chitra Chechi's voice when heard with the natural serene frames was an absolute bliss. Kudos to Nidhin Raj Arol for giving a life moving cinematic experience. Hats off to Jothish Sankar & Kripesh Ayyappankutty for giving the natural and earthly tone to the set works and prawn culture setups in giving life to the underdog performances.

A must watch movie on big screens with family to see the raw and realistic life in pure bliss and experience some life moving moments.

A movie about dowry like never before, with so much social commentary that doesn't feel preachy - only Mollywood can do this. Will Akshay Kumar remake...?

This film was terrific from an acting standpoint. I didn't expect Sajin Gopu (Ambaan from Avesham) to play a grey shade role this convincingly, dude's convey a fear that you wouldn't expect from Avesham. Lijomol Jose and the support characters were good, but this was a Basil Joseph show.

The film questions the pressure on a family for gold as dowry. Madilyil Jewelry - lol. Apparently it's a thing...? Lijomol's Steffi starts off as a certain character, undergoes a transformation that makes you want to support but also not, at the same time. You want to blame everybody but you see why they do what they do...there are so many layers to this film that you can keep discussing but everything seems subtle.

All that said, I dunno why I was expecting another Jaya Hey or a humorous film but I suppose it's not fair to expect that from all Basil movies. Regardless, this was totally worth the watch and will surely make it to Mollywood's top 10 films of the year.