As the film ends gloriously with its engaging ‘message’, one feels the completion of a beautifully crafted heist movie done realistically and with great characterization. The bonding of the four thieves and the enigma of the fifth one all adds to layer up the narrative. Heist movies are of various kinds. This one directed by Siddarth Bharathan and written by Thrissur Gopalji strings together not too clever thieves, real situations, satire and local idioms artistically and with precision.
‘Varnyathil Aashanka’ may not have a novel storyline or treatment. But the way it is narrated is entertaining to say the least. The story is that of four local thieves hoping to get a big break. They execute their plan on a hartal day. The hartal was called in lieu of some political unrest in the area.They are joined by a fifth thief too. Things go beyond their imagination as they do really ‘make it big’. In the meanwhile, we have humour aplenty and satire galore. One just has to keep the eyes and mind open for such tid bits.
Characterization is spot on. We won’t be able to say that this is a Kunchako Boban movie. It may feel like a Suraaj movie some time while Kunchako takes over at other times. There is the rough one, the innocent one, the funny one and others ‘traited’ ones lending the group a completion. The flavour is just right. The funny moments arising out of their ignorance and camaraderie are one to watch out for. The situations are conceived in a realistic manner, in keeping with the kind of good movies that are made today. Siddarth has handled the tone with finesse.
The acting of each and every character is spot on. Kunchako has lent enough roughness – a trait not usually seen from the actor- to his character. Suraaj is spot on as Dyanandan with an emotional tone that is mature. His typical tomfoolery is also very convincing. Even minor characters that come and go have done their parts well. The back stories of each of the characters are engaging. The interconnected stories add to the layered feel of the script. In etching each characters this well each have amble scope to perform and they have delivered accordingly. Chemban Vinod, Manikandan Achari, Shine Tom Chacko all shine in their roles.
Script is a huge plus with plenty of situational and practical humour, making it an absolute pleasure. The way even local Thrissur is shown is interesting. The idea of political shams and thieving is brilliantly brought out. Camera by Jayesh Mohan is realistic and the frames livens up the everyday and ordinary situations, without overt romanticising. Editing is sharp and brisk making the heist part very engaging. Music including the BG is only given wherever strictly necessary. Siddarth Bharathan as a capable director has aced this one.
A humourous heist movie with a satirical take on issues surrounding us, ‘Varnyathil Aashanka’ is a well crafted and entertaining watch.
