User reviews

A movie is the result of teamwork, so any shortcomings must be shared by all involved. The storyline had immense potential-it could have been an outstanding 3D movie with the right technical expertise and basic common sense. Unfortunately, the script was a complete disaster, and the dialogues were equally disappointing. Was this movie made for kids? It doesn't seem so, yet the children sitting near me lost interest and started playing on their phones just 10 minutes in. Dear Mr. Lal, you are a fantastic actor, but this genre doesn't seem to suit you. Is there a quality control process in place during production? It certainly doesn't feel like it. When delivering something to the audience, ensure it is the best it can be.

I watched the movie at Aashirwad Cinemas, Haripad, and the experience was pathetic. The screen looked patchy, and the projection brightness was incredibly dull, ruining the 3D experience entirely. Polarized 3D technology requires double the brightness compared to regular screens, unlike active shutter systems. This lack of technical quality spoiled the movie even further.

Film has decent VFX and good 3D animation. But lacks in storyline and action sequences. Movie is a yawn fest even for kids. Really laboured keeping my eyes open at the theatres. On OTT, you wouldn't get past 20 minutes of this movie. With all due respect to Lalettan his directorial debut falls flat. The movie is too long at over 2.5 hours with a storyline thats short enough to make a 20 minute animated toon episode. Even on a sunday the movie hall was running at less than 20% occupancy. My dear Kuttichaathan re release would have been far more entertaining than this. Movie is really seriously low on content.

Barroz. Mohanlal 's First Directorial Movie .The Movie's 3D , VFX Was Great And Mohanlal's Performance Was Great Too But It lacks in story and script and other actors performance except lal's performance was not great. So Barroz Was A Missed Opportunity And Could Have Been Done Much Greatly. Some Even The Acting Of Lal Was Not Great Too. Sometimes it felt like a serial therefore. Mohanlal's Look As Barroz was great too. The Voodoo Doll was great too it's vfx was great too. So Barroz was great visual festival and it's cgi and vfx was great but it lacks story , script and performance except lal.

I genuinely regret wasting my time on Barroz. For a movie that touts itself as a groundbreaking 3D experience, it offers little more than shallow storytelling, laughable visuals, and an overall sense of creative emptiness. If the goal was to bore and frustrate the audience, mission accomplished.

The plot (if you can call it that) is a convoluted mess, lacking coherence, emotional depth, or any semblance of character development. It felt like a half-hearted fairy tale stitched together with clichés and incoherent fantasy elements. Not a single character stands out-they're either forgettable or downright annoying.

The much-hyped 3D effects were underwhelming. Instead of immersing you in the world of Barroz, the visuals were clunky, poorly rendered, and felt like they belonged in the early 2000s. At no point did the film capitalize on its 3D potential; the scenes were flat, unimaginative, and lacked the visual flair that could justify the format.

The pacing was atrocious. Entire segments dragged on endlessly, leaving the audience squirming in their seats, desperate for the ordeal to end. The editing felt amateurish, with abrupt cuts and awkward transitions that only added to the film's chaotic presentation.

As for the music and sound design? Uninspired, generic, and utterly forgettable. Instead of enhancing the experience, it served as background noise to a train wreck of a narrative.

Overall, Barroz is an embarrassing attempt at 3D storytelling that fails on every level. Save yourself the agony and skip this disaster entirely. It's not worth your money, your time, or even the effort it takes to think about it afterward.

The worst movie ever.... Thought that it was going to give a minimum standard... The underwater scene was so substandard A high school student can give better results.. I don't even understand where was the effects The acting of all were very pathetic... waste of time and money A substandard serial is much better than this The best movie for a good sleep Mohanlal please don't direct anymore movie Even my 11 year old was asking why is he giving keys in slow motion I just wanted ro get up and run away in between

Music was more than pathetic I wish there was at least one thing good in the movie.

The movie 'Barroz' isn't worthy of a rating. The script is weak, and the cast's performances are largely unbearable, with the complete actor Mohanlal being an exception, although he felt like a shadow of his former self. The dialogues and dubbing were equally disappointing.

The only positives are the impressive visual effects and Mohanlal's performance.

The film could have been more engaging with an animated backstory exploring D'Gama's treasure and the bond between D'Gama and Barroz, which might have helped create a stronger emotional connection with the characters.

Overall, the movie was a complete dud.

2 star for excellent and 1 star for the animated song sequence. Nothing else works in this. Even lal looked lost in his own creation. Somasundaram had the worst role and he failed in providing any elevation to it. The lead girl's acting was pathetic. Too many unknown faces with bad acting. De gama looked silly. The puppet / doll companion character had so much promise but bad dialogues ruined it. Super stretched first half with absolutely nothing happening. Second half was faster in comparison but I was exhausted by interval time itself. My kid slept through most of the first half and was slightly entertained by the second half 3D gimmick shots. Worst malayalam movie I watched this year hands down. The folklore had so much potential. It would have worked better with full animation and some better editing and some elevated plots.

Baroz impresses technically, especially with its stunning 3D effects and world-class visuals crafted by the talented Santhosh Sivan. The background score (BGM) is exceptional, elevating the cinematic experience, though the songs are just passable. Mohanlal's acting stands out as a major positive, showcasing his unparalleled screen presence.

However, the movie falters in several areas. The casting feels underwhelming, with many actors failing to match the standard set by Mohanlal. The story is clichéd and predictable, and the script misses the opportunity to develop its promising premise. Dialogues lack impact, and the overall delivery feels weak, failing to engage the audience. The narrative progression is sluggish, and the movie struggles to maintain interest due to its lack of momentum and depth.

Despite its technical brilliance and Mohanlal's performance, Baroz ultimately ends up as a visually stunning yet narratively disappointing film. It's a classic example of style over substance, leaving the audience wanting more in terms of storytelling and execution.

Everyday I wake up and I thank the Lord for my choice of watching the film at home instead of the theatres. I would have regretted wasting my time and money. Now I only regret wasting my time. The VFX was done on Microsoft PowerPoint and their team has a combined brain cells count of 3. On second thoughts, I'd like to try the drugs that the entire team who conceived this idea was on. Mohanlal could do better. Its a shameful movie for the actor to be cast into. The horrible VFX, the mediocre acting by the cast members and the earrape of a song "Isabella" rounds up the entire experience. The only good thing I could've mentioned about the movie is the ads that would've played before the movie if I had watched it in the theatres.

0/10 wouldn't even recommend it to my enemy.

Did I mention the horrible VFX ?

There is a saying, "Do not throw good money after bad". Barroz is the perfect example for this. Mohanlal's dream project, a movie that went through it's own production hell and inspite of hiccups and challenges, he persisted in trying to bring his vision on screen wherein he should have given up at least 3 years back with things not going his way and some of his usual accomplices walked away from the project.

There are little to no redeeming qualities in the movie. The cast and especially Mohanlal just falter so badly, you wonder how this could have been his dream directorial venture. The story has been destroyed, if ever there was one conceived. The acting is just terrible on so many fronts and performances are just so sub par that you even wonder if these are actors or people just picked up from the streets and asked to pitch in. There really seems to be no explanation for where the budget went especially in a movie with only one superstar who is the director and terrible CGI and mostly domestic locations. Most of the foreign collaborators, again not big names, have brought in zero value again leading to the mystery of what happened to the budget. The music especially disappoints and songs like "Isabella" are just jarring and painful to listen to.

Overall Mohanlal proves that he is best in front of the camera and not behind it, unless he is just producing it and not taking the creative decisions. This is a movie to be skipped unless for academic purposes where is serves as the perfect case study on how not to make a fantasy movie.

Barroz: Guardian of D'Gama's Treasure, directed by Mohanlal, is an ambitious fantasy film that explores themes of legacy, loyalty, and adventure. Here's a quick review:

Plot: The film revolves around Barroz, a centuries-old guardian of a hidden treasure linked to Vasco da Gama. Tasked with safeguarding the treasure until it reaches its rightful heir, Barroz encounters an intriguing mix of characters, including a young girl who changes his perspective. The narrative blends mythology, history, and fantasy, offering a fresh concept for Indian cinema.

Highlights: Mohanlal's Direction: As his directorial debut, Mohanlal takes a bold step into the fantasy genre. His vision and attention to detail are evident in the grandeur of the film's setting and its emotional depth.

Visual Effects: The film's VFX is commendable, creating an immersive experience that brings the magical world of Barroz to life. From the treasure's mystical aura to the elaborate set designs, the visuals are a treat.

Performances: Mohanlal shines as Barroz, blending charisma, intensity, and subtle humor. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, adding layers to the story.

Music and Sound Design: The background score and songs complement the narrative, enhancing the adventurous and emotional tones of the film.

Shortcomings: Pacing: The story occasionally drags, with some scenes feeling overly drawn-out, which may test the patience of the audience.

Complexity: While the concept is intriguing, the mix of mythology and fantasy might feel convoluted to some viewers, making it challenging to follow.

Final Thoughts: Barroz is a visually stunning and heartfelt attempt at bringing an epic fantasy story to life. While it has its flaws, Mohanlal's passion and commitment shine through, making it a unique experience for fans of Indian cinema. It's a commendable first directorial effort and a step forward in exploring unconventional genres in Malayalam movies.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)

Barroz - Guardian of Treasures

Rating - 3.5/5

An imaginary fantasy tale portraying obedience and loyalty to the royal highness by the ghost Barroz - Custodian of treasures across generations.

The story revolves around Barroz, the ghost who has been assigned with the duty of guarding the treasures by Lord D'Gama in the 17th century and how he overcomes the obstacles & odds coming his way for 4 centuries and whether he will succeed in finding the true successor forms the base for the storyline.

Mohanlal through his directorial debut has pulled off a visual spectacle. He has effortlessly visualised the story penned by Jijo Punnoose onto the screen with utmost care and precision giving a great cinematic experience. He has brilliantly conveyed emotions, pain, trust, loyalty, love & empathy through the story. The filmmakers have also put light on the myths and superstitions persisting in both centuries through the story. A simple storyline is moulded into a splendid movie with handpicked casting and technical brilliance. The director has detailed on the emotional connection between Barroz & Isa as well as given good character arc for the key characters in the movie.

Exceptional performance by The Complete Actor as Barroz - The Ghost. Impressive performances were made by Ignacio Mateos(Lord D'Gama),Cesar Lorente Raton(Mendoza),Joshua Okesalako(Black Magician),Guru Somasundaram,Amal(Chotta)& Maya Rao West(Isa). The performances and the dialogues of Voodoo, the animated character is worth mentioning which adds to some funny moments.

Santosh Sivan has brilliantly captured the magical visuals,underwater sequences and the celebrative vibes of the people in Goa. Santosh Raman's efforts in building the attic and giving it an antique look is worth mentioning. Impressive efforts by Jyoti Madnani Singh for Costume Design and Liju Pamamcode for his efforts in Make Up.

A good movie with beautiful visual narration by Mohanlal highlighting the timeless significance of promise,loyalty and trust. A must watch on big screens with family to witness the rich cinematic experience gained by Mohanlal over 46 years.

A Visually Stunning Fantasy with Technical Brilliance and a Visionary Director!

"Barroz," directed by the legendary Mohanlal, is a cinematic experience that showcases the director's ambitious storytelling and technical excellence. Set against a rich and imaginative fantasy backdrop, the film takes audiences on a visually spectacular journey, brimming with vibrant colors, intricate set designs, and stunning visual effects rarely seen in Indian cinema.

The technical aspects of "Barroz" are undoubtedly its strongest suit. The cinematography captures the mystical world with finesse, and the VFX work is on par with international standards, bringing the magical elements of the story to life. From breathtaking landscapes to intricate character designs, every frame is crafted with attention to detail. The sound design and background score further elevate the immersive experience, adding depth to the narrative and emotions.

Mohanlal deserves kudos not only for his direction but also for his vision in bringing such an ambitious project to Malayalam cinema. His passion for the story shines through in every frame, and he handles the complexities of the fantasy genre with admirable confidence.

While the technical aspects and direction are top-notch, the film's pacing and screenplay could have been more engaging. Some portions feel stretched, and certain characters lack depth, which slightly affects the overall impact of the narrative.

That said, "Barroz" is a commendable attempt to push the boundaries of Indian cinema, and it marks a bold and refreshing addition to the Malayalam film industry. It's a must-watch for its technical brilliance and as a testament to Mohanlal's versatility as an artist.

Verdict: A visually captivating fantasy that deserves appreciation for its technical mastery and the director's ambitious vision. 7/10!

Barroz is a departure from the quintessential Mohanlal cinematic experience. Fans expecting the actor's signature punch dialogues, comedy sequences, or emotionally charged moments may find themselves adjusting their expectations. This is not your typical Mohanlal movie, but rather a carefully crafted directorial debut that ventures into the world of fantasy.

As a debutant director, Mohanlal doesn't just meet expectations-he delivers with precision and expertise honed over 48 years in front of the camera. His understanding of shot composition and camera angles is evident throughout the film, making his transition to the director's chair seamless.

The film's art direction is spectacular, and the 3D visuals are nothing short of a cinematic treat. The negative characters shine with memorable performances that bring depth to the narrative. However, not all characters hit the mark, and a few comedic sequences feel forced and uninspired, detracting slightly from the overall experience.

At its heart, Barroz is a Portuguese folk tale that children are bound to love. For adults, it's an enchanting, one-time-watch fantasy story that feels like stepping into a beautifully illustrated fable. Clocking in at 2 hours and 34 minutes, the film's pacing allows the story to unfold naturally, though it might feel a bit stretched for some viewers.

Overall, Barroz is a visually stunning film that showcases Mohanlal's potential as a storyteller while delivering a unique cinematic experience. If approached with the right mindset, it's a journey worth taking.

CONGRATULATIONS🎉 You get to see the world through the eyes of Mohanlal. If you can appreciate a child's sincere, innocent first painting, then you will appreciate this movie. True treasure is beyond what you do or do, it's who you are. Sometimes you make no sense to the world, but your pure intention counts. Just as Barroz. Thanks Laletta. You were always that pure kid at heart. You made me meet with my innocent self and loved ones again. Your message what true treasure means is something I will carry with me forever.

Dear Parents, do enjoy this movie with your children. It is truly a Christmas treat. In a way you get to appreciate a wonderful time spent together with your family and take a beautiful message back home. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Mohanlal, lovingly known as Lalettan, has gifted us countless unforgettable performances over his illustrious career, but with Barroz, he steps into the director's chair and delivers an extraordinary cinematic experience. This film is a testament to his vision, creativity, and dedication to storytelling. For a debut, Lalettan has exceeded all expectations, seamlessly blending his trademark acting brilliance with an impressive directorial approach that makes Barroz a visual and emotional treat.

One of the highlights of Barroz is undoubtedly Mohanlal's nuanced acting. Even as he shoulders the responsibilities of directing, he brings the character of Barroz to life with unmatched depth and sincerity. Every expression, gesture, and dialogue resonates with the audience, drawing us deeper into this fantastical world. His ability to balance the dual roles of actor and director is commendable and speaks volumes about his commitment to his craft.

The technical brilliance of Barroz is another aspect that sets it apart. The 3D visuals and CGI are of top-notch quality, transporting viewers to a realm filled with wonder and excitement. The attention to detail in the visual effects ensures that every frame is captivating, making it a treat for the eyes. In an era where technology plays a crucial role in filmmaking, Barroz showcases how it can be used to enhance storytelling rather than overshadow it.

The grand symphonic orchestral music, composed by the young prodigy Lydian Nadhaswaram, is yet another jewel in this cinematic crown. Mark Killian's background score perfectly complements the narrative, heightening the emotional beats and adding layers of intensity to the action sequences. Lydian's ability to craft a score that resonates with audiences of all ages is a significant achievement and adds to the film's universal appeal.

When it comes to cinematography, Santosh Sivan's work needs no introduction, and in Barroz, he once again proves why he is one of the most celebrated cinematographers in the industry. Every shot is a masterpiece, capturing the grandeur and magic of the story with stunning clarity and precision. His use of lighting, framing, and angles immerses the viewer into Barroz's world, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The production standards of Barroz deserve a special mention. From the elaborate set designs to the intricately crafted costumes, every aspect of the production reflects the filmmakers' dedication to quality. The film exudes grandeur and polish, setting a new benchmark for Malayalam cinema. It's heartening to see a project where so much care has gone into every detail, ensuring that the audience gets the best possible experience.

Despite all its brilliance, Barroz has unfortunately been subjected to some undeserved criticism. It's disheartening to see negative reviews circulating online, often aimed solely at degrading the film and affecting its box office performance. Such baseless negativity shouldn't deter anyone from watching this cinematic gem. The effort, passion, and creativity behind this project deserve recognition and appreciation. As viewers, it's essential to support ventures like Barroz that push boundaries and bring fresh perspectives to cinema.

For those who value storytelling, technical excellence, and heartfelt performances, Barroz is a must-watch. It's not just a movie; it's an experience that leaves you spellbound. Lalettan's vision and execution have opened up new possibilities for Malayalam cinema, proving that he is as capable behind the camera as he is in front of it.

As the film draws to a close, it leaves the audience eagerly anticipating a sequel. The world of Barroz is rich with potential, and there's so much more to explore in this magical universe. If Lalettan decides to helm a sequel, it's bound to be yet another masterpiece, and fans like me will be first in line to witness it.

In conclusion, Barroz is a spectacular debut that deserves applause and widespread acclaim. Mohanlal has delivered a film that is not only technically brilliant but also emotionally resonant. Ignore the naysayers and immerse yourself in the world of Barroz. It's an 8.5/10 from me and a strong recommendation to anyone looking for a truly unique cinematic experience.

Great direction. It's a film that will resonate with both children and adults, leaving audiences with a full heart and great visual effects. Film visual style feels like a living. Innovative filmmaking, leaving a impression long after the credits roll. Amazing Visualization,Wonderful movie,Great Direction. Selection of each and every character in this movie is speachless , it's very much enhancing the visualisation and character in this movie , it's mind fresh and relaxing movie ,feels like in wonderland..3D is really great work of everyone , thanks lalettaaa such a wonderful movie, never felt like it's your first direction.

Considering this movie is a debute direction of the legendary actor ,this film is a visual treat especially for kids. Even though it's more for kids , its enjoyable by others also .His effort is much appreciated because every cienema is an experiment.

Technically this film has explored new possibilities which is rare and open doors for upcoming movies. There are many frames with stunning cinematography that pulls you into it's world. Its not just visual treat for the eyes ,it also enhance the storytelling ,adding layers of depth and emotion. A truly unforgettable visual experience. Thank you for this great movie.

Barroz is a stunning fantasy film that left me and my family amazed! From its breathtaking visuals to its compelling storytelling, it's a movie that stands out as a landmark in the Malayalam and Indian film industry. The exceptional 3D effects and the vibrant, carefully crafted color tones deliver a Hollywood-level experience, reminiscent of films like Aladdin. It's great to see a fantasy movie of this scale and quality coming from our industry, proving that we can create cinematic wonders on par with global standards. This film should serve as a benchmark in color tone and 3D effects for Malayalam fantasy movies in the years to come. Barroz is a refreshing change from the usual masala or realistic genres, offering a magical journey that captivates both young and old. A must-watch for fantasy lovers and a proud moment for Malayalam cinema!

Mohanlal has delivered an exceptional directorial debut, showcasing remarkable skills in what is arguably the best 3D film ever produced in the Malayalam film industry. The film stands out for its outstanding VFX and SFX, a testament to the talented work of Santosh Sivan.

The storyline has successfully captivated both family audiences and children, demonstrating its broad appeal. With over 40 years of experience in the film industry, Mohanlal has redefined the landscape of Indian 3D cinema through this remarkable project.

Despite the relatively small scale of the Malayalam film industry, no compromises were made in the production of this filim. Mohanlal has proved that he can deliver high quality movie with his directorial gig, further enhancing his legendary status in Indian cinema.

Kudos to Laletta for this remarkable achievement!