Bramayugam Movie Review: A Cinematic Experiment in Black and White
Movie Name: Bramayugam
Release Date: February 23, 2024
Cast: Mammootty, Arjun Ashokan, Sidharth Bharathan, Amalda Liz as Yakshi, Manikandan R Achari
Director: Rahul Sadasivan
Producer: Chakravarthy – Ramachandra
Music: Christo Xavier
Banner: Night Shift Studios
Rating: 3.25 out of 5
Mammootty’s latest film “Bramayugam” unfolds as a dark fantasy horror thriller, marking its presence in the horror-thriller genre. This film, exclusively featuring five characters throughout its narrative, has been a subject of intrigue due to its unique approach by presenting the story in black and white, enhancing the suspense and mystery.
“Bramayugam,” directed by Rahul Sadasivan and produced jointly by Night Shift Studios – Wayanad Studios, was released in Malayalam on February 15, 2024, and made its debut in Telugu theaters today. Let’s delve into the movie’s offerings.
The story begins in the 17th century, set in the South Malabar region. It follows Thevan (played by Arjun Ashokan) and his friend Koran (Manikandan R Achari) who, to reach their destination, must cross a river through a forest. As darkness falls, they decide to cross the river the following morning. During the night, they encounter a ‘Yakshi’ (demoness). While Koran falls prey to her allure, Thevan manages to escape.
Escaping into a dilapidated mansion unknowingly, Thevan meets Kodumon Potti (Mammootty) and his cook (Sidharth Bharathan). Kodumon, upon discovering Thevan’s singing talent, engages him in singing. Thevan starts to see Kodumon’s good nature, offering refuge to wanderers like himself.
The cook assigns a room to Thevan but warns him against wandering at night. Throughout the night, unsettling noises haunt him, and the surrounding graves intensify his fear. Thevan, who had observed the Yakshi visiting Kodumon, grows increasingly anxious.
Despite his attempts to escape, Thevan finds it impossible to leave. Seeking answers, he questions the cook about the mansion’s mysteries, including Kodumon’s identity. The cook reveals that once someone enters through the mansion’s gates, they cannot leave.
The movie, penned and directed by Rahul Sadasivan, intricately weaves its plot around just five characters, with the narrative majorly revolving around three. The decision to present the film entirely in black and white adds a layer of depth and suspense, making it a compelling watch.
The director captivates the audience right from the first scene with its intriguing setting — a forest, a river, and a haunted mansion. The method of storytelling, focusing on three characters within the mansion, keeps the audience engaged. The design and development of these characters are among the film’s highlights, with Mammootty’s performance and body language adding to its appeal. The flashbacks and climax are particularly engaging.
While some may question the necessity of black and white, it arguably enhances the film’s suspenseful atmosphere. Mammootty’s role stands out as a significant and unique character in his career. The main cast, alongside Mammootty, delivers natural and commendable performances.
Shehnad Jalal’s cinematography is a strength of the film, capturing night scenes and rain sequences beautifully. Christo Xavier’s background score is another highlight, keeping the audience immersed. Shafique Mohammed Ali’s editing is also noteworthy.
Set in the 17th century, the story involves a haunted mansion and three key characters, brought to life in a black and white cinema. The scenes, lit by lanterns and leading the audience through twists and turns, make for an engaging narrative. This film is a testament to experimentation, offering a new experience if one sets aside conventional expectations for cinematic entertainment.
Also Read: Bhamakalapam 2 Movie Review (Aha)