Movie Name : Manjummel Boys
Release Date : April 6, 2024
Cast : Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Balu Varghese, Ganapathy, Deepak Parambol, Abhiram Radhakrishnan, Jean Paul Lal, Khalid Rahman etc
Director : Chidambaram
Music Director : Sushin Shyam
Telugumopo.com Rating : 3/5
Story:
In 2006, the Manjummel Boys, a close-knit group of friends from the small, yet vibrant town of Manjummel, decide to embark on an adventure that would not only prove their mettle but also set them apart from their longstanding rivals. The object of their envy, the so-called ‘Elite Gang,’ has been flaunting their adventurous exploits, particularly their trips to exotic locations. Craving a slice of that glory, the Manjummel Boys set their sights on Kodaikanal, a place famed for its mystical beauty and enigmatic locales, particularly the notorious Guna Cave, also known as Devil’s Kitchen.
Disaster strikes when Arjun, the most adventurous yet reckless of the group, slips and falls into the deep pit known as Devil’s Kitchen. Panic ensues among the friends as they realize no one has ever emerged alive from this abyss. Faced with the grim reality, the Manjummel Boys refuse to leave their friend behind. The film then shifts to a gripping tale of survival, wit, and determination.
Review :
“Manjummel Boys” seems to encapsulate the essence of human resilience and the depth of friendship through a harrowing tale of survival and emotional recovery. Director Chidambaram’s approach to storytelling, focusing on human emotions with friendship at its core, strikes a chord with the audience by weaving a narrative that is both compelling and deeply moving. The film’s ability to convey the intensity of a real-life survival scenario without relying heavily on graphic visuals, yet still leaving a profound impact, speaks volumes about the director’s skill and the narrative’s strength.
The decision to use Kodaikanal as the backdrop for the unfolding drama adds a layer of visual appeal and momentum to the story, enhancing the emotional connection to Subhash and his friends. The seamless integration of childhood memories into the main narrative not only enriches the characters’ backstories but also deepens the viewer’s engagement with their fate.
The commendation for the production design team underscores the importance of realistic settings in immersing the audience in the film’s atmosphere. A well-crafted set can elevate the storytelling, making the scenes more impactful and believable. The praise for the background score by Shusin Shyam and Shyju Khalid’s cinematography further highlights the collaborative effort behind the scenes to create a tense, gripping atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Including a beloved track like “Priyathama Neevachata Kusalama” not only serves as a nostalgic callback for many but also enhances the emotional resonance of the scene it accompanies, proving the power of music in cinema.
The film’s exploration of Subhash’s post-trauma experience adds a layer of depth to the narrative, setting “Manjummel Boys” apart from other survival thrillers. This focus on the aftermath of a traumatic event, rather than concluding the story with the rescue, provides a more nuanced and comprehensive look at the characters’ journeys.
The performances of Soubhin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Deepak Parambo, Khalid Rahman, and the rest of the cast evidently play a significant role in bringing the story to life with authenticity and emotional depth.
“Manjummel Boys” seems to be a testament to the power of cinema to tell stories that are not only thrilling but also deeply human, resonating with audiences through its portrayal of resilience, friendship, and the long road to recovery after trauma.
It sounds like “Manjummel Boys” struggles to find its footing in the early stages, grappling with pacing issues and a somewhat lackluster approach to establishing its universe and characters. This can indeed be a significant hurdle for films that aim to build a narrative momentum leading towards a resonant climax, especially when dealing with a simple storyline where predictability might dampen the viewing experience. The challenge in adapting real-life events without adding dramatic flair can result in a portrayal that feels too subdued for some audiences, potentially limiting its impact.
However, the mention that the initial moments have a connection with the climax suggests there’s an attempt to weave a cohesive narrative thread through the film, which could reward viewers who stick with it through its slower start. It’s a delicate balance to strike, particularly for films based on true stories, between maintaining authenticity and ensuring an engaging cinematic experience. Perhaps with tighter editing or a more dynamic approach to storytelling in its early sequences, “Manjummel Boys” could have better captured its audience’s attention from the outset.
“Manjummel Boys” emerges as a gripping survival thriller, deeply infused with emotion, particularly in its captivating second half. Stellar performances from Shoubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Deepak Parambol, and the entire cast elevate the film, overshadowing its initial slow pacing and occasional predictability as the climax approaches. While the first half may falter in engagement, the technical brilliance and compelling portrayal of the rescue operation make a theatrical experience worthwhile. Ultimately, “Manjummel Boys” overcomes its early setbacks to deliver a powerful narrative underscored by resilience and human connection.
