Comedy, road movie elements and social message were all promised with 'Popcorn'. There sure are elements of all these but 'Popcorn' has not popped out uniformly and this unevenness is what ultimately become its bane. One cannot totally dismiss this movie but it is neither here nor there. Once you are done with it, you kind of forget it. Soubin is perhaps the only saving grace.
This movie is all about Kinder and his love for a girl and his effort to win her family's approval. There are clichéd elements like finding the boy 'unfit' for the girl citing typical reasons and the boy getting an opportunity to prove himself. Joy too has a fair share in the narrative along with Kinder. One gets the feel that the script was reworked and improvised at the last moment to accommodate some characters, especially Soubin's. The script becomes too pointless at times and really tests your patience. There are all these realistic emotions and inane comedy all mixed up together which doesn't get well.
Director Aneesh Upasana has tried to instil some freshness to a lame script. Soubin has spiced it up with some humorous interludes. But Aneesh, who did decently with his debut 'Matinee' could have been more careful about the story he chose. There is also a lack of grace in whatever has been projected. The problem with the script is that it is too contrived. Things don't just flow naturally. This is felt especially for the comic sequences which seems to have been written for the sake of it. Even the kidney sentiments seemed awkward.
Technically the movie does hold its own. Aneesh himself has cranked the camera. He has used slow motion shots and aerial shots to complement the intended feel of the movie. But the edits were only passable. The music was also average. Though the script was directionless, some nuances in the dialogues did create a ripple. The actors have done their part with Soubin stealing the show. Shine Tom Chacko was convincing and he has sported an altered look in it. Srinda is also styled differently but fails to make an impact. Bhaghath as Joy has also done well.
'Popcorn' may not be an entirely satisfying experience but can be watched for Soubin's performance and occasional giggles. Also this may not make a lasting impression but sure can be a quick watch if you have nothing better to do.
