Kuttanpillayude Sivarathri

There is definitely novelty in Jean Markose's satirical drama Kuttanpillayude Sivarathri that narrates the story of a police constable named Kuttanpilla (Suraj Venjaramoodu) who is currently in dire straits with his family members, most notably one of his sons-in-law who wants to fell a jackfruit tree so that he can complete building his house. The problem is that Kuttanpilla won't allow it. With some neatly done sequences of familial discord, Kuttanpillayude Sivarathri inches forward with a story that absorbs another arc into its narrative. That of a bunch of ghosts 'living' around Kuttanpilla's house is somehow connected with his own fate and that he has some hints about it is what further makes Markose's writing fresh. I am surprised at the use of creativity in not just how the proceedings are shot but also the comical songs that support the narrative to turn it into a breezy little film you can catch with your family members. I could actually relate with these some of these characters who go about living off someone else's wealth because that's like the story of my extended life in Kerala. It took me back to the heated discussions that I always have when I go back during vacation. Apart from the mess that it turns into in the second half with non-fictional borrowings from real life incidents, Kuttanpillayude Sivarathri is an honest film made with vigor and creativity. I will be looking forward to Markose's future films. TN.

The first is typical family entertainment. Second half is more of fantasy and totally a different movie experience

Suraaj is awesome, even in this serious role he sounds so funny.

Now when the initial posters and trailers came out for this movie I was expecting another mindless comedy movie. But finally after reading initial reviews I was really excited to watch this.

A differently themed movie in an otherwise mass/popular movie market. It talks about the life of Kuttanpilla - a typical policeman who is leading a simple life with his wife. It is sivarathri (Hindu festival) time and his children and other relatives are coming down to celebrate. A series of events which follows is the story.

While this is the main story there is a nice side story as well. The narration of the story is interesting. The intertwined stories have come out well and keeps the attention of the audience.

Its got classical elements of a typical kerala family - usual drama + some mild comedy. Kudos to Suraj for playing the title role. His evolution as an actor is simply commendable. The supporting actors are good too - Srinda, Biju Sopanam, Suraj's wife.

Do watch this one for a an offbeat movie experience.