Pathonpatham Noottandu (2022) User Reviews (22)

Power packed visual treat - Made for Theatre

[Rudra_Pulse · 8/10 · 23 September 2022]

Among the movies which have came from time to time in malayalam film industry depicting the historical events, this movie stands out with its strong plot, perfect casting & power packed visuals.

The core of the movie is indeed the plot which grabs our attention and takes us to the unethical practices in 19th century and as a viewer we are able to experience it in a wider scale through this movie.

The power packed action scenes gifts a wonderful theatric experience without a flaw and give goosebumps in time.

Though the songs were not up to the mark the background score have done justice.

As an actor, this movie is indeed gonna be a turning point for Actor Siju, as his dedication level in portraying the character is really commendable. Actress Kayadu Lohar have also done a good job in executing the character in an intensive way and conveying the message.

This movie really needs a lot of appreciation as it's one of its kind which we can present globally, and can even add as a milestone in malayalam industry, but i was surprised to see the theatres with more empty seats within a week.

Anyway director Vinayan have delivered us a wonderful movie taking it to the next level and let's hope his future developments are also fruitful in time.

Great effort- but not quite there.

[nikhilcbabu7 · 7/10 · 25 September 2022]

First of all I would like to appreciate the effort that has been put into making this film.

Positives.. 1. Good performance from The Nangleli actress. She did her best.

2. The BGM is nice even though there are places where its overdone.

3. The overall direction, art and choreography did well.

4. The film did bring those old era feels.

Now onto some criticism.. 1. Siju Wilson performance is just average, I mean the acting part.

2. Storyline is bit boring here and there. Not a totally compelling tale.

3. Gokulam Gopalan's casting as the lead actor's grandfather is terrible (cringe fest).

4. Also the Kannan kurup guy is below average.

5. Expected a more intense screenplay.

The film is better than Marakkar or Mamangam but no way close to Vadakkan Veeragatha or Pazhassiraja.

Messed up in writing

[gangeshgnair · 6/10 · 8 November 2022]

Felt like a good watch, if you don't have much expectations.

The nangeli character really worked for me, especially the climax portion was amazingly shot. The climax scene definitely leaves a impact on us. The production design, costume, cinematography was nice. They nicely set up the 19th century period of Kerala. The music was good. The action sequences were good, especially the climax fight on the boat. It was shot beautifuly with a lot of top angle shots and very stylised with slow motion, that fight scene was pretty cool. The performances were ok, nangeli rocked in the climax.

The issue in the movie is the writing. They messed up in writing of the character of velayudha paniker played by siju vilson. Velayudha paniker is a person from the lower cast and he fights for their rights but he is never affected by any issues the people from that community is facing because he is rich. He has the money to pay all taxes, owns a lot ships, has money to build a temple. He just feels like a saviour who is doing a charity to the community people rather than being one among them. So the stakes involved for him in the story was pretty low. And there were hell lot of other characters which failed to create any kind of impact. I felt there was a proper structure missing in the screenplay. So the movie pretty much fails to create a lasting impact.

Artificial masala film

[SPHariSP · 10 November 2022]

I had low expectations but this was even lower than that.

Siju Wilson did well and the nangeli actress kayadu also done well. Deepti sati , chemban Allencier etc supporting cast is also good.

There are some high production value and good constumes etc Some good songs and action sequences too.

Main problem is, this is a very artificial periodic drama. It is made as a low class masala movie , no justice to the periodical elements such as language and art.

Siju wilson has put lot of effort phisically, but all that got wasted. Cannot really judge if he has potential or not. Nothing more to write.

Entertaining and informative

[mytwobit · 7/10 · 12 September 2022]

I like the way the mytho-historic genre is treated in this film. There is an element of 'larger than life' persona of a historic figure and also important chapter in the fight of the subalterns against the dominant upper casts who had proclaimed insulting rules such as 'breast tax'. To think that such a 'tax' even existed is shocking these days. One had to fight to even restore the basic human dignity of covering oneself itself will be an eye opener to many in modern India. How much resistance from the upper cast men who wanted to legitimize 'letching' or more way to keep the subalterns humiliated. Definitely an important film to watch for its portrayal of modern social equality movement in India. At the same time the film narrative and visualisation is in the heroic mode, with stylised fight sequence and other 'hero' cinema tropes. On the whole an enjoyable as well as an enlightening watch.

Best one among the recent malayalam periodic drama releases in terms of watchability

[Saanwithhisstupidthoughts · 6/10 · 9 November 2022]

I am kinda confused as to why I found this one to be surprisingly the best one among the recent lot of period dramas that came and went without any real engaging experience.

It doesn't do anything better than the period dramas that came before but idk it maybe coz it didn't have that kind of elevations like them too.

The sets weren't very striking except for a few ones like the ones put up for the port? The others looked good but at the same time the artificiality could also be easily seen.

The performances were decent enough and i guess I found it engaging and entertaining coz of the narrative and major plot points, which I felt were delivered neatly and with needed seriousness in it..... which I didn't find effective in those other malayalam period dramas (if being honest MAMANGAM did have a partially effective one though but it faltered on most of the other stuff) of recent times.

Siju Wilson delivers in a good if not exceptional way and the other supporting cast members too contributed decent performances.

The script was missing with good and striking character elevations and dialogues and the action sequences too weren't anything gripping.

Everything felt really grounded from the get go but the climatic action sequences was the one that finally did the very much needed character elevation and stylish(even if with a bit overused slowmotion effect)and engaging and the whole of it even made me root for AVP :)

Overall even with the lack of good and memorable character expositions, quality compressions and lack of tightness in script I really found it to be an engaging and enjoyable period action drama fr.

PS the voiceover from ikka at the end. Lit af

6.5/10.

A STORY TO BE SEEN....

[skmenon1993 · 8/10 · 9 September 2022]

*** Pathonpatham Nootandu ( 19th Century) Movie Review ***

Directed by Vinayan...

Starring Siju Wilson , Anoop Menon , Chemban Vinod , Sudev Nair, Kayadu Lohar in lead role...

Verdict of The Movie : Super Hit ... 5/5 ⭐

Plot of the Movie...

During the era of 19th Century, in the place of Travancore, there was a custom that women of lower caste is not allowed to cover their breasts..They were deprived of their fundamental right... Moreover they also need to pay breast tax..

Also there were other crimes named as tradition like moustache tax for lower caste men, not allowed to visit temple, not allowed to wear the used clothes of the upper middle class...

So Aaratpuzha Velayudhan Chekavar a fierceless person who also belongs to the lower caste was on a battle against this unjust crime against the state...

Positive Factors of the Movie

1) Siju Wilson, this man broken the expectations of the movie...If he was a comedian in Premam, no one ever believed that he could carry such a heavy character..Even when the movie poster launched i was confident that this will be an another disaster for Vinayan the film maker but Siju you stolen the show...

2) Vinayan Sir writing and screenplay was good... His involvement was well evident in all the sectors of the movie, be it action, sound design, art direction etc...

3) Kayadu Lohar as Nangeli also gave a stellar performance...

4) Action sequences were well choreographed, especially the climax fight sequence was awesome...

5) Vinayan sir able to bring out the hardships faced by the lower caste people in depriving from their fundamental right especially the last scene wherein Nangeli cuts her breast to show her protest against the attrocity was heart touching.....

6) Cameo Appearance of Indrans stolen the heart of the audience....

Negative Factors of The Movie

1) Songs were not upto the mark...

2) Casting of Tiny Tom Deepti Sati , Chemban Vinod was not right...

3) Portray of Kayamkulam Kochuni characterization seems to be incorrect as Kayakulam Kochuni Malayalam movie played by Nivin Pauly was different...

Just a decent effort

[vjnambu · 7/10 · 25 November 2022]

When i first saw the teaser of pathonpatham nootaandu, I was surprised to see a good level of production quality especially from a director like vinayan whose previous film aakashaganga 2 being a so bad its good film. Such quality I didn't see even in movies like maamangam and marakkar both starring two superstars. I just wanted to see whether the writing too was updated.

The biggest plus point of pathonpatham nootaandu is its uncompromising production values. Hats off to gokulam gopalan for making high quality period films like pazhassi raja, kammarasambhavam, kayamkulam kochunni and now this. Siju wilson spent nearly two years of his career for this film learning horse riding, bodybuilding and martial arts. And it reflects it on screen very well. Hope he becomes a superstar after this film. Another freshness I felt was presenting kayamkulam kochunni with grey shades.

Though the film has good production values, the script is strictly average. The film looses its steam after the capture of kayamkulam kochunni character. And despite having an ensemble cast of talented supporting actors none of them are in their best form. Just an okayish performance from everyone.

On the whole pathonpatham nootaandu had the production quality to become a mini baahubali but writing turned to be just basic.

Class hit from Vinayan

[beyondsanjith · 10/10 · 3 October 2022]

Siju Wilson stealed the show...extreme stage presence.... After watching the film ,I googled to find who was the actor as perumal, it was surprising to find that it was gokulam gopalan, who did a wonderful acting performance.... Vinayan whose previous films showed a little of artificial visual effects ,improved nearly cent percent and the fight scenes were exceptionally eye catching...The lady actors too did a bold role...Aarattupuzha velayudha panicker who fought for the upliftment of the oppressed ezhava and other lower castes have been brought to life by siju Wilson, which will definitely be a turning stone in his acting career, which will take him to new heights...

Strong work technically, but the screenplay leaves much to be desired! [+53%]

[arungeorge13 · 5/10 · 7 November 2022]

Pathonpatham Noottandu is an episodic re-telling of certain events that took place in the 19th century with extreme cinematic liberties taken by writer-director Vinayan. For sure, the visuals by Shaji Kumar, Ajayan Chalissery's production design, Supreme Sundar's stunt choreography, and Santhosh Narayanan's score give the film a strong technical backing but the script lacks the emotional punch required in a film like this. Siju Wilson's presence is imposing and he totally shines in the set-pieces as Ezhava spice merchant turned activist Aarattupuzha Velayudha Panicker. Kayadu Lohar's portrayal of Nangeli is also quite impressive. Chemban Vinod, who plays (a different version of) Kayamkulam Kochunni, is decent. The cast is huge, with prominent names filling up important roles.

For a relatively smaller budget period film, Pathonpatham Noottandu scores better than some of the other entries in this genre in recent memory (i.e. In the Malayalam language). Yet, most characters are uni-dimensional and fail to register as anything beyond good/bad. The melodrama, which is usually on the higher side in Vinayan films, is thankfully balanced out with the action blocks and sub-plots. He reserves it exclusively for the climax, which recalls a folklore we've all read or heard somewhere. There is a very chapter-by-chapter feeling to the film, be it in the way it introduces (and re-introduces) characters or major plot developments. This adds to the emotional disconnect between us viewers and the film's protagonists.

Fantastic movie on a real life Hero

[rahul-21865 · 10/10 · 10 September 2022]

Velayudhan was not only a successful businessman and trader, but a warrior and social reformer who did his best, against all odds, to uplift the living conditions of the majority Ezhava community. It shows the daily injustices our ancestors faced, until very recently, regarding temple entry, breast tax, ban of low castes wearing a mustache or using nose rings and the corrupt administrators in the 1800s. The story is universal, of the human spirit's fight against a system steeped in prejudice and it's eventual victory over evil. Thank you to the team, for making popular the story of a brave, honorable soul, that wanted nothing more than basic dignity for his people.

Could have been great, but just average

[naveenkrishnanh · 5/10 · 26 September 2022]

This could have been an epic, landmark movie ! In terms of production and costumes the movie might be one, but had the storytelling be tighter, editing a bit more crispier, some insights into main character's origin or struggles or "thoughts" (we only see his final actions and repercussions of those actions.

Now coming to the movie itself - the actions sequences were well shot - but got repeating and quite honestly boring towards the end. I was almost sleeping through some in the Theatre after a while ( yeah there is bunch of similar slow motion action sequences which definitely could have been cut)

The idea of clubbing Nangeli, Kochunni and Velayuda Panikar as a creative liberty would have been fine had they made a significant difference - here these are done in a messy and pretty ridiculous manner. And king asking Panikar to capture Kochunni and Kochunni stealing from a poor priest are really doing injustice and totally wrapping history cruelly and un-necessarily as well ( it doesnt really after the overall narrative other much )

Excellent movie

[bblahblah-11518 · 10/10 · 9 January 2023]

Based on true events, this movie depicts a lot about the cruelty that was meted out to people who were considered to be of lower castes. It's sad that heros like this have disappeared from history so I was glad to see this movie. Of course, there are exaggerations but it makes for good viewing. The music was good and the fight scenes done quite well. Overall, I really liked the movie. I wanted to watch it in theatres but unfortunately it didn't run long enough. Luckily I was able to watch it through prime. Definitely worth a watch. 10/10 recommend it to everyone. It is only through efforts of so many brave people like him that a lot of the unjust rules were torn down.

Great women story and action movie

[magicalfairyhouses · 9/10 · 2 January 2023]

I watch many Indian movies. Of course my female hero is "Queen of Jhansi". (The Indian organila) Phenomenal young actress and all above.

I loved the TV series, but no more was made to finish the ending.

This movie was not only a action movie and how much the rich rule everyone. It is a well done Cinema photography and slow motion was perfect. Culture and acting was good for most. And not your typical love story in most Indian movies. This is a wonderful eye opener, before our time. And what happens in other countries all over.

The persons in this are my heroes with out spoiling it. This story is about 2 heroes in one movie.

Underwhelming script and low budget film-making which left Siju Wilson's efforts in vain.

[akhil027 · 3/10 · 7 November 2022]

There's severe lack of proper emotions in the movie. Although, the atrocities our ancestors had to suffer is enough to make our blood boil, it is safe to say my blood was cool throughout the movie. The characters are underdeveloped. Almost all the malayalam period dramas suffer due to the accent of old times. The dialogues will always feel artificial to hear after 2010.

In addition, the sets which reminds me of dramas, poor acting by most of the cast, the bad to nearly funny make up pulls the movie back.

Above all, it's the annoying background score which trumps all. I don't know who told the composer to create a track and keep it playing regardless of what happens in the movie. You can hear the same track during a conversation between some characters who aren't important and also when the protagonists fights the bad guy.

It's ironic how the movie tries to criticize the laws against lower caste women covering their body, but objectifies them at the same time. Yeah.. It's a Vinayan film, so that is not that surprising at all.

I just felt bad for Siju Wilson who put clearly put so much effort into this movie.

Vinayan's most Underrated movie- a heartfelt "historical" narrative captured stupendously!

[oneglobalops · 10/10 · 9 November 2022]

After a really long time ~ I've experienced the grandness with which a "historical" narrative is captured stupendously! Kudos to the entire team - especially Siju, Poonam, Deepti, Jaffer, Kayadu amongst others who did their part brilliantly. This movie is less short than 100 cr club - glad its playing on OTT - it will win more audiences to fall in love with overall craft -- critics have already given a thumps up!

The Times of India rated the film 4 out of 5 stars and wrote "A heartfelt historical narrative". As per Manorama its "An exceptional treat from Vinayan, Siju Wilson" and The Hindu wrote "A package with some punch!

I think the movie was not marketed well; the reason I could hardly see any influencers or industry artists talk or market the movie to appeal to the mass; else this movie could have been in the 100+ Cr club!

So much Drama.

[soorajbabus · 3/10 · 24 September 2022]

My opinion, the movies is not recommended, the first few minutes we have.. Yaak..feeling about the cast. The camnder in chief we have some expiations, the physical appearance or... We konw that... But the cast is so desperate to me the first minutes of the movie."sudheer karamana" is that role, at least any fight secene is include for him nothing doing in that film, he is the general. And another cast problem is came from "kayamkullam kochunni". Chemban vinodh he have any mannerism of that role and his role too big and laging. And over dramatic dialogues. Feels crunch feeling.

The cenimatography was realy good and first song Visuals are really good.

And the performance of siju Wilson was very nice and apperatable the major strength of this its some individual performances. And the a huge apperate the actress Kayadu Lohar non malyalam actress.. But she manage the dialogue and the lip she done a great work. The movie.

Over all. My opinion the movie is one time watching. But some others are loveing.

Not recommended.

Great historic Movie

[manukrishnano · 9/10 · 8 November 2022]

Everyone surprised because Director Vinayan done an Epic Come Back. Everyone laughed at him before and now he done a great Job and the same peoples who laughed before are appreciating now. We also got a new Hero Siju.

It's an Historical movie about thiruvithamkoor,. . The action sequences are awesome ,. It looks perfect and good choreography.

Siju Vilsons Make over and his effort are really great. . Cinematography is superb , the frames and so beautiful.

It's totally a quality malayalam historical movie which telling the story of The grear Warrior Velayudha Panikkar and also have history of thiruvithamkoor.

Befitting tribute to a historic hero!

[raghusajeev1994 · 10/10 · 11 September 2022]

The movie depicts the plight of a true to history hero - Velayuda Chekavar, who stood for the oppressed ezhavas. The picturisation of life in 19th century Kerala is beautifully captured by Vinayan.

Siju Wilson has done justice to the character which is evident from his acting and his transformation for the role. He has pulled off the demeanor of a hero without being a stiff faced bore. He has done a pretty good job with the stunt scenes, which are ample, well choreographed and well directed without stretching physics too far, if you know what I mean.

The movie has sub plots to add a theatrical element, or as narrative tools to picturise harsh realities in those times, which has been weaved in without it seeming too obvious. There are scenes that are tough and brave, but truly hammers down the point of the movie. The sort of thing that lingers with you after you walk out of the theatre.

an enjoyable & learning experience

[ngandacinema · 8/10 · 13 November 2022]

Pathonpatham Noottandu was a pleasant surprise😃 We assumed it was going to be like 'those' typical epic movies but Vinayan was creative in every way making it an enjoyable and learning experience. THANK YOU!

DELICIOUS

-Like many epic movies, we were already expecting to hear the usual deep narrator's voice giving us a history lesson before the story could unfold. NOPE!

Vinayan took an innovative path by setting the story through paintings of the people, activities, sufferings, assailants, etc.

-The characters were also different than what we anticipated: there was a women's rights fighter, a thief stealing idol ornaments, and a bunch of law enforcers who insisted that women should 'not' cover their breasts and men wear a mustache.

PLUS, the film had no-nonsense romance and comedy

-Siju Wilson has never looked this handsome😍 From head to toe, it was a total transformation from his regular guy-next-door roles

-The film was a great learning experience to know about all kinds of taxation in the 19th century (including fish net tax).

We got to witness Velayudha's relentless efforts to combat low-caste injustice while still being a law-abiding citizen

-One thing that the movie aimed to demonstrate was how little has changed from the 19th century to present times: low-caste members continue to suffer great inequalities and women are still dishonored

-Thank you for the original ending

BLAND

-It's our understanding from the movie that the low-caste individuals were dark-skinned, yet, when it came to the females with lead positions such as Nangeli and Velayudha's wife, they were all fair😕

-There were lots of slow motion during the action scenes which was overwhelming

-Many characters didn't show agony on their faces despite the atrocious beatings and whipping, making the overall acting passable...

Great historical movie!

[johcatrac · 9/10 · 26 November 2022]

Not a flashy one but will keep you engrossed. Story, screenplay and direction are excellent.

Shiju has potential and can extend his career.

The negative reviews on here seem to be posted by those who were against Vinayan, the director.

Vinayan has successfully delivered this movie without any A-list actors and it is also helped by the very good acting by the actors in this movie.

Story is maybe a 100 years old, reflects the hindu society in general and the screenplay is apt and accordingly. Chemban Vinod's role although short is done well.

The only slight drawback is with Anup Menon fitting into the role of the king.

Worth watching!

A Well crafted Movie

[amalrajan-50461 · 9/10 · 8 November 2022]

It's a great experience for the audience. Excellent visuals, well directed action sequences, engaging story line, Master class movie from Director Vinayan which set a standard for the future movies of Malayalam industry. Siju Wilson managed the lead role velayudha panikkar without any flaws.

Movie taking the spectators to the Era of 19th century and the sufferings of the poor by the upper class. Unlike the similar movies which portrayed similar themes, Pathonpatham Noottandu Movie deliveres the fight against the upper class slavery with the flavour of action and thrills. The crew deserves great appreciation for such a great work. Well Done.