Puzhu

Despite all the shortcomings in the screenplay and the somewhat generic making style, Puzhu stands out for yet another brilliant performance from Mammootty. Playing the role of a retired cop and strict father, he's confidently telling us that there's still plenty of acting fuel left in the tank. One can't help but be reminded of his mysterious performance as C. K Raghavan in Munnariyippu, with added layers and subplots. The whodunnit parts of Puzhu fail to fire on all cylinders, even with writers like Harshad, Sharfu, and Suhas on board. The film also briefly touches upon casteism and social stratification but these aren't explored beyond the surface. Puzhu rests entirely on Mammootty's shoulders (the child actor also deserves a special mention), and I can't wait to see him expand his repertoire further as a septuagenarian.