A lot has been spoken about the magic of Sathyan Anthikkad - Mohanlal films of yesteryears. But now, adding feathers to their caps is a film which unites them after 12 years- Rasathantram.
Rasathantram, meaning 'chemistry' did certainly worked out the chemistry between the actor and director creating another film for jubilation. Mohanlal is back to his known, strong territory, with effortless, effusing acting styles and subtle humour. Sathyan Anthikkad has managed to present Lal in a more human, logical nextdoor characterisation thus creating a solid film to stand out as one of the summer's highly admired family drama.
The film is about sensitive individuals enmeshed in cruel, social realities. Openly and with sincerity, it relates a story about entangled and difficult relations of principal characters.
The film tells the story of a father and his loving son, living isolated from their bigger family in a remote, picturesque village.
Effectively portrayed by Lal and Bharath Gopi as Premachandran Asari and Balaan Maash, in intense, passionate sequences, the story builds itself a new dimension with Premachandran finding affection in a tamil servant girl 'Kanmani'. Played by Meera Jasmine, Kanmani's disheartening fate and her struggles in the household establish a sympathy in the minds of Premachandran, who in the later turn of events, is forced to rescue Kanmani, for saving her life.
Kanmani is now camouflaged as a male boy Velayudhankutty, and is brought to the house of Premachandran. Everyone admires the boy's vigour in house keeping and his character and Manikantan Moothassary (Innocent) even hires him to help him in his carpentry works., while the localpolice is searching distances for the girl who is mysteriously missing . The rest of the film revolves around perplexed chances for a new life for Kanmani and Premachandran.
Eventhough Kanmani's character defies logic in some sequences, Meera Jasmine has displayed excellent performances to present it with life. Innocent, K.P.A.C. Lalitha, Oduvil Unnikrishnan, Mamukoya,and Siddhique have raked in good support to the lead pair. Jagathy, Mukesh and T.P. Radhamani appear in short cameo roles.
The major highlight of the film is the cinematography by Azhagappan, which brilliantly captured the florid greenery of some of the most beautiful Kerala villages of Moolamattom and Kanjar. This visual plan of presentation is evident in almost all scenes which cut to wide shots frequently to display graceful god's own country .The film also has four good songs crafted by Gireesh Puthencherry and Ilayaraja.
The film is told in a slow pace, but most characters shows integrity and live through their contradictions that is usually untouched by mainstream cinema. Sathyan's script is soulful but his launch into dialogue writing, sometimes is tied to cliches. Overall poised to become a sure hit, the film highlights the dexterity and fluidity in Sathyan's story telling abilities. The film which extends to a little more than 2 hours and 40 minutes is definitely a safe selection for every family viewers.
