When the members of a popular Islamic organisation decide to make a telefilm, writer Toufeek played by Sharaf U Dheen along with other members assembles village members to act in the film helmed by Siraj played by Joju George.
Halal Love Story is a 'film within a film' . We have come across many movies of the same format including the critically acclaimed Jigarthanda. Here director Zakariya chose to play within his safe zone,the same what we witnessed in KL 10 and Sudani from Nigeria. The film opens up slowly showing landscape beauty of Malabar region and some of you may find it uninteresting that the narrative and dialogues are so rooted to the Malabar Muslim culture. The proceedings get back on track when the shooting episode starts with some genuine hilarious situations revolving around the shooting spot.
Among the bunch of acclaimed artists Grace Antony excels. It's good to see the talented actress getting meaty roles. Indrajith as the struggling artist and pompous husband was a real treat. Joju George , Sharaf U Dheen, Parvathy, Soubin and rest of the cast make a decent impact with their act. Zakariya has retained most of the faces from his last outing.
Halal love story is more like a satirical approach dealing with some of the conservative, orthodox minds and creates situational comedy out of religious absurdity rather than outright mocking. The bland, lustreless portions were saved by the quirky, subtle humour. Thanks to the breathtaking shots by Ajay Menon, the stupendous, colourful frames lighten up the mood of the film. Songs by Shahabaz Aman, Rex Vijayan, Bijibal, Neha Nair were soothing.
Halal Love may not cater to all sections of the audience. This heartwarming, funny tale by Zakariya is par below his former outing yet enjoyable considering its simplistic nature.
