Munnariyippu (2014) User Reviews (27)

A Wickedly Brilliant Movie!

[sohansurag · 8/10 · 15 September 2014]

"This movie isn't for everyone!" a line that I have used time and again and while it may sound like an easy bail for a movie that I'd enjoyed yet can't recommend others, I can't emphasize the line enough here for one of the best Malayalam movies this year. Munnariyippu starring Mammootty and Aparna Gopinath, isn't going to turn a lot of heads or be discussed among the casual movie-goers. But it was able to etch its impressions in my head and invoke a multitude of emotions, from sheer helplessness to supreme fear, and ending in being haunted even after the credits had rolled in. If you find yourself as immersed as myself in this movie, you are warned and assured you will go through similar range of ires as well.

Veteran cinematographer turned director Venu's second offering (since 1998's Daya) Munnariyippu tells the story and life of C K Raghavan portrayed by Mammootty and how a meeting with him changes the life of an aspirational freelance journalist Anjali Arakkal played by Aparna Gopinath. Its extremely slow paced and yet I found myself intrigued with the titular characters. My first impression was that it was gonna go the usual artsy movie route and the ending would be something ironic yet hard to comprehend. As the movie progresses, every turn, even if they are less in number and minute in magnitude, will keep you guessing and try to make you foresee the ending. But its safe to say that predictability takes a backseat here and nothing would prepare you for the ending, not that the ending is what made the movie.

You'll be able to say if this movie is for you or not from the titles itself. There was this line about Kafka that Prathap Pothens character utters in the movie. It was sheer coincidence that a movie had something about Kafka just a day after I'd finished reading one of his books. If you are familiar with the works of Kafka you'll see the essence almost instantly here.

Bijibal's haunting score is another gem in the crown. It was almost reminiscent of Mica Levi's score from Under The Skin, and by reminiscence I meant the haunting goodness of it. Much like the movie even the score had equal tones of liberating calm and disturbing melancholy.

While others near me shrugged in their seats, muttering to themselves "When'll this be over?" and "Why did I even come for this", I was completely invested in this movie, thanks to the awe inspiring performances from Mammootty and Aparna. Mammootty was inexplicably terrific as C K Raghavan, having minimal lines and acting mostly through body language. This will be hailed as one of his most challenging and complex roles ever. Aparna Gopinath effortlessly slides into the shoes of Anjali and brings out the bold that we've usually seen her portray but at the same time we also get to see her charming and vulnerable sides as well.

Sharing what I'd exactly thought about the movie in itself would act as a super-spoiler and I wouldn't want in the world to spoil this for you. I could easily tag this movie with a certain genre but then again that tag would be yet another spoiler. Sitting through till the end ain't easy, but when you are sucked into the simple narrative complemented by tight direction, an enthralling script and sincere performances from both the leads, nothing else matters.

Brilliant movie

[jimmat53 · 9/10 · 25 October 2014]

Munnariyippu is a movie which makes the audience to wear their thinking caps. Arguably, the movie belongs to the physiological thriller genre. The movie opted to take a bold route of not explaining and spoon feeding the audience with every single detail which is not a familiar experience for the south Indian audience. We are forced to think and draw conclusions based on many subtle(even bold) hints which will help us to connect the dots and conclude what it is all about. I think, this is completely path breaking for Malayalam movies. Audience who are familiar with Hollywood movies like Seven or Usual Suspects could relate to this, as a single event towards the end or the climax unravels the complete movie for you and make you think about the movie, even after watching it.

I am not surprised that many people didn't like the movie and I even read that people were booing at the end of the movie. This movie is not everyone's cup of tea. But, I am sure a seasoned movie goer will definitely be able to appreciate it.

Mamootty was the ideal cast for the role and has performed admirably. It's just sad to see him waste his time and talent on commercial mass movies and cheap comedy. I hope he would opt for more challenging roles like this and our script writers could churn out such excellent scripts more often. Aparna Gopinath did a commendable job enacting the character transformation under corporate pressure.

I am not sure if the movie is a commercial success. I hope it is and I would love to see such movies more often. If you are looking for a time pass popcorn movie, just don't go for it and boo it. But, if you appreciate good cinema and like to see a thought provoking movie, it's a gem. Go for it! Cheers!

Unconventional, dark and gripping.

[sreeram-nr · 8/10 · 24 January 2016]

Apart from succeeding as a drama film that manages to keep your attention throughout its 114-minute song-less spectacle, the movie also succeeds as a a stellar example of how a good screenplay can really carry an entire movie. This movie follows the journey of a young freelance journalist, struggling to make her "big break" work with the biography of a double homicide accused prisoner, whom she takes a fascination to after a few meetings. The story follows her attempts to get him to write about his past and elucidate the details leading to how he was imprisoned - for a crime he vehemently denies committing. Newbie Aparna Gopinath shines in her role as the troubled and desperate journalist trying to get through to the jaded and soft-spoken Mammooty, who delivers an A-class performance reminiscent of his heyday. Cinematographer-turned-director Venu yet again proves that the director chair is something he can handle with equal élan as he does the camera - he will be one director to look out for in this new wave of Malayalam cinema.

Overall, the movie is a must-watch for those who appreciate a good story told adeptly, without much brouhaha or over-the-top-ness and miss the days when Malayalam cinema exemplified that one quality for which it was always prized - simplicity.

A perfect comeback for Mammootty and classic cinema.

[rajappanrocks141 · 10/10 · 26 August 2014]

Munnariyippu will be treated as a movie for those who have high evaluation skills.Or it can be said as a perfect movie for movie lovers.Veteran director Venu has proved his exceptional directional skills again.The script by Unni.R. is engaging throughout.Mammootty and Aparna Gopinath are seen throughout the movie with their combination scenes and they compete with each other in emoting their characters.

The suspense element is unpredictable, but definitely it will disappoint some viewers who expect a little more explanation.But there comes the importance of the movie name Munnariyippu' meaning "Warning", so 'Expect the Unexpected'.

The movie is a cult one and a perfect treat for all who love to see a good cinema.

Munnariyippu Review - Do Not Miss This Rendezvous with C.K Raghavan

[nisarnis · 10/10 · 26 August 2014]

Munnariyippu tells the story of Anjali Arakkal, the freelance journalist who makes her living being a ghost writer. During one of her assignments to write an autobiography for jail superintendent, she meets an inmate-C.K Raghavan, grows interest in his story and character and decides to write a feature on him. C.K Raghavan had been sentenced to life for homicide of two ladies. But even after completing his term of 14 years, he prefers to continue in jail. The story then revolves around how he comes out of jail , how Anjali pursues him to write what really happened in his life and if the audience really get to learn all those.

Aparna Gopinath is a revelation. I was impressed with her debut in ABCD but from there onwards,it had been a downhill for the actress whether its the movies she had been part of or the characters she portrayed. Here in Munnariyippu though she stuns one and all matching up to the veteran Mammootty in many scenes. Its her earnest portrayal of a journalist who is determined to succeed and scale greater heights in life that brings an urgency to the otherwise sedate proceedings. Nedumudi Venu is a treat as always and brings few chuckles on our face. I wish Malayalam Cinema utilizes this actor more often. It has started to irritate to see Joy Mathew in every other movie these days but in this one, he did a fine job. Renji Panicker continues to be a natural in front of screen. Prithvira's cameo has nothing much to do but provides an important turn in the story with an advice he gives Aparna. 2012's National award winning child artist, Minon once again leaves a mark as the kid who befriends Raghavan and around only whom Raghavan is cheerful during the days he is out of jail

Cinematographer Venu makes a stellar return to direction after a long break and its his novel theme and intriguing story that is the winner in Munnariyippu all the way. Unni.R's screenplay provides the right impetus needed to this story. The technique these makers have used to tell the story in a lethargic pace to the point that the viewers finally start to get bored and then suddenly hit them with an ending like a ton of bricks has reaped in huge rewards. Bijibal's haunting background music helps the movie a great deal too. But above all, what Venu primarily needed was an actor who would not reveal anything at all about what C.K Raghavan is about and maintain the mystery surrounding him till the very end. Mammootty does that job with great aplomb , once again you only see the character the actor plays and not the actor himself.

It is very rare in a terrific movie where Mammootty has played the lead role ,that you walk away from the cinema halls not taking with you the brilliant acting moments by the actor. But Munnariyippu is one such movie and Mammootty has actually nothing to do with it . Its because C.K Raghavan does not reveal much on his face. He doesn't emote at all. He behaves differently from others. Even his ideologies and philosophies are different. Mammootty's ability to become the character he plays coupled with an astounding work of Venu and Unni.R in molding Raghavan delicately and perfectly might have given us a new entry to the list of Malayalam Cinema's finest movie characters ever. In Munnariyippu, its not the acting nuances that haunt you when you leave the halls, its the whole character.

Copy Paste from - Fahir

Sheer f**king brilliance!

[rr44135 · 10/10 · 24 August 2014]

For everyone who pooh-poohed his scornful outings over the last couple of years while projecting the star in him instead of manifesting the brilliant actor in him, here is Mammootty's strong answer to all his naysayers who wrote him off, vociferating that class is permanent with a shockingly brilliant, gutsy crusade from the ace cinematographer Venu and the excellent writer Unni R, who together produces a gem of an astutely connotative screenplay laced with prodigious, profound and philosophical reflections on freedom, exploitation, opportunism, mercilessness of the world run by the ruthlessly pragmatic corporates and also poses a warning that writing isn't something which comes instantaneously, all through the optics of a ghost writer and an intriguing man who spend 20 long years in a clink. For serious movie lovers who can enjoy such offbeat, cerebral narratives, have no second thoughts and reach out to your nearest screen playing Munnariyippu, which surely will turn out to be a thought provoking and haunting experience with remarkable performances all round. CK Raghavan definitely, is the Mammootty, we, the connoisseurs of cinema were dying to watch after Pranchiyettan, which was half a decade back.

Those who are not interested in any kind of spoilers, please stay away from reading any further. The mind game sets in from where Anjali Arackal (Aparna Gopinath), a ghost writer who is allotted to compose an autobiography for a jail superintendent, encounters an intriguing prisoner CK Raghavan (Mammootty) who sticks around in jail enjoying his solitude even after his stipulated tenure of the judgment of conviction for a double homicide. Interested in Raghavan's literary rantings written inside the jail, Anjali decides to do an exclusive story based on the literary works of Raghavan which becomes a runaway success, prompting a leading publishing company to offer her an opportunity to take credit for a book actually written by Raghavan based on his personal experiences. As Raghavan becomes a celebrity among the reading society, he is driven to exit the jail to the external universe, where he is practically locked up by Anjali at a confined space, in a regulated manner for him to write peacefully, so that she can take his accounts to a leading publishing giant within the strict deadline of one month. Days pass by, Raghavan can't write even a single word, and as this goes on, she is at the verging peril of facing legal suits from the publishing company for not meeting the deadline passed to her. Will Raghavan be able to complete writing, which will unveil what he was, or not forms the crux.

The main contemplation that Munnariyippu tries to delineate through Raghavan to the audience is that, the interpretation of freedom or exemption is absolutely subjective in accordance to the individual in question. It also presents a strong disapproval at the ruthless pragmatism of the new age through Anjali, which puts pressure, even when it comes to the field of creative cosmos, where thoughtfulness might not develop instantaneously within the given peak of time. The hotshot cinematographer Venu, who made a notable directorial debut with 'Daya' with the likes of MT Vasudevan Nair and Manju Warrier, proves his genius again and showcases his pioneering experience in the field, after returning to take the helm after 16 years of sabbatical. The way he portrays the idiosyncrasies of Raghavan, the selfishness of Anjali, the build-up to the shocking culmination are sheer strokes of brilliance. Unni R, who is popularly known as a brilliant short story writer has written his best work till date for celluloid, winning over us completely with such staggering character sketches which keeps you hooked on the screen to watch out for what's in store for the protagonists at its denouement. On its technical side, Venu himself has handled its cinematography and shows his class in that department once again without going above the narrative. Beena Paul's editing was pitch-perfect in creating the right mood and pace which its narrative demanded. Bijipal at re- recording does an excellent job in providing the air of mystery throughout its running time so effectively.

Talking of the performances, Mammootty truly underplays his emotions so effectively in a multi-dimensional manner like many of his brilliant portrayals in the past, by skinning his teeth into Raghavan, a character study which is altogether safe in his workforce. Aparna Gopinath, does a surprisingly great job as Anjali, bringing out all the anguishes, desperation and selfishness of the character with conviction. Among the supporting cast Renji Panickar, Joy Mathew etc delivers honest performances. Prithviraj in a juicy cameo reminded his own Kunjukunju in 'Swapnakoodu' with fine refinements.

All in all, Munnariyippu, is easily a profound masterpiece in my books, which turns out to be a hauntingly shocking delight for the lovers of cinema, and its true worth will only be valued by more people only after the passing of its home video, when it surely will be attaining a cult status, which it deserved, just like Utharam, Sadayam, Mumbai Police all which had a terrific culmination which weren't taken at first by the common audience. Must watch!

Verdict - Sheer f**king brilliance! Courtesy :Robert Langdon

classy movie..!

[thameem00 · 10/10 · 25 August 2014]

Munnariyip, A movie which will haunt you for a long time after you left from the movie hall. A movie about C.K Raghavan and his views about the freedom. A Stunning movie with a flawless script and brilliant acting by the pioneer of Indian cinema Mammooty. Special mention to the director for the way he narrate the movie. Such a masterpiece in the recent times.A movie which allows the audience to be a part of it. movie leaves many unanswered questions at last. By thinking one can understand what the movie is all about. This stuff can be considered as mammooty's best work in last 5 years. This one is for all the movie lovers out there. don't miss it.

Story Of A Innocent Man

[kailasnathsasikalan · 7/10 · 24 January 2015]

Its a nice movie.. I heard really bad comments from my friends about the movie, that's why I actually saw this movie.... But its worth watching... A different plot... There's lagging , But if you watch for the 2nd time you understand his emotions that you didn't see first time...In the silent smile of raghavan (character)... The brilliant acting of mamooty and Aparna is match perfect for the character, with the good direction and editing the movie become a good Drama.... Here's the plot by Ajay Nair-- The film follows the journey of 2 protagonists; a female journalist and a criminal convicted for 2 murders and how their worlds merge for a mutual agenda. One who is struggling to make a mark in her respective field and the other who even after completing his term is happy to be within the confines of the jail. One who is giving in to the demands of the pragmatic and competitive world and the other who is not able to inscribe his words because inventive and original thoughts cannot be bounded under the deadline of ruthless time frames. Anjali Arrackal (Aparna Gopinath) and C.K Raghavan (Mammootty) are the respective characters and it is a refreshing relation.

Munnariyippu : A Pragmatic Warning

[kannanlukose · 10/10 · 9 September 2014]

Munnariyippu is an investigation thriller directed by Cinematographer turned director Venu. Venu is turning into direction after a long interval of 15 years.Munnariyippu stars Mammootty and Aparna Gopinath in the lead roles. Munnariyippu is penned by director Venu and scripted by new wave script-writer R Unni. Venu also handled cinematography for the movie and is edited by Bina. Music for the movie is composed by Bijibal. Director Ranjith Produced the movie under the banner of Gold Coin Motion Pictures.

First of all let's just say there are no obvious good guys or bad guys in this movie – just people. Well rounded, interesting characters who are all involved in one way or the other to the main storyline of the film. The story follows a freelance writer/journalist named Anjali Arakkal (Aparna), who is ambitious and intelligent. She makes her living being a ghost writer for people who don't particularly have the skills to write for themselves and though this pays the bills, Anjali wants to make it big as a writer.

In her quest to do so, she meets a journalistic giant who entrusts upon her the job of ghost writing the auto biography of a friend of his – the Superintendent of a jail (Nedumudi) who is about to retire. Though not thrilled with the job she takes it and it is while she is in prison meeting with him that she meets an unassuming enigma of a prisoner named CK Raghavan (Mammootty).

Raghavan is a simple but captivating fellow who is in for a double homicide, which he says he never committed. Though he had the chance to leave, Raghavan has chosen to not opt for parole and is happy in the prison.

Obviously Anjali's attention turns to him, and she writes a feature based on the translation of various musings of Raghavan. This feature gets her noticed on a national level and soon she is offered a book deal by a major literary agency for Raghavan's story.

The plot then follows a mysterious Raghavan who never reveals his truths, a frustrated Anjali, her friends, corporate competition and third parties all gunning for the story behind the man with all the secrets.

Mammootty is at his best. Mammootty lived CK Raghavan. When we go out of the theatre we take a part of CK with us. The mannerisms and dialogue delivery of Mammootty made the character more alive. Aparna Gopinath is one of the best thing about the movie. Anjali is very strong and independent. Well, the role of Anjali was taken to the next level by Aparna.

Then we have the huge array of veterans and a delightful cameo by Prithviraj, all complimenting the tone and vibe of the film. In fact, the performances of many being so good is another reason why you are pulled in to multiple directions if you try to figure out where the story is headed. There simply are no weak links in the cast.

This a grown up movie. That does not mean it is artsy or does not have commercial value but just the opposite. Munnariyippu reminds us all what film making is all about and does so exactly because it does not rely on cheap applause or shortcuts.

Munnariyippu once again establish the truth that the script is the back bone of the movie. The film does not fails to engage the audience from the very beginning to the very end. Venu did a fantastic job as a director and cinematographer. The frames are simply brilliant and intriguing. R Unni is one of the best script writers in the new wave of Malayalam cinema. Well, he keeps his legacy. Munnariyippu can be counted as one of his best scripts till date. The dialogues are strong, deep and incredibly simple!

FINAL VERDICT: Munnariyippu is a feast for the movie lovers! This is one of a kind movie and will be a cult movie for sure. Munnariyippu is one of the best movie which resets the belief that good cinema exists. Munnariyippu is a must watch for movie lovers. For fans it's a chance to see their favorite star in an entirely different avatar.

((Review Inspired from Muyals.com's and Chithramala's review of the same movie.))

Munnariyippu is one of the most intriguing films made in recent times - Review By Paresh C Palicha

[anoop_r · 10/10 · 14 September 2014]

Munnariyippu, means 'caution' or 'warning', but the warning is not about some shocking or nerve jangling event or occurrence. Cameraman-director Venu has a different agenda in this film that stars Mammootty in the lead.

Anjali Arakkal (Aparna Gopinath), a freelance journalist, earns her living by ghost writing autobiographies of the rich and famous. Her latest client is the jail superintendent Krishnamoorthy (Nedumudi Venu) who is to retire from service shortly.

When she goes to meet him in the jail, she meets Raghavan (Mammootty), a prisoner accused of a double homicide. He has served his sentence but continues to stay in the jail as he has nowhere to go.

Anjali interviews him as part of the research for Krishnamoorthy's book. She finds that he is an interesting person and has jotted down his thoughts in a diary. She uses this material to write an article on him for a leading English magazine.

The article wins her a book deal from a publisher in Mumbai to translate Raghavan's autobiographical writings.

Anjali gets Raghavan released and finds him a place to stay. She provides him with pen and paper, telling him to write whatever he feels like. But days go by and the paper remains blank. Anjali gets increasingly angry, annoyed and agitated as time goes by.

The equation of their relationship does not change much as they come to know each other better. Anjali had found Raghavan an interesting subject to write about. Raghavan does not open up to her any more than one would to a casual acquaintance, even though he entrusts her with his life's earnings.

The screenplay and dialogues by Unni R give us clues to where we are heading, but much still remains a mystery.

Renji Panicker and Joy Mathew play senior journalists who guide Anjali, who can be quite ambitious and ruthless. They say things that mentors are supposed to say. They underline the changes taking place in the profession.

Prithviraj appears in a cameo as the prospective groom for Anjali.

The star cast is in top form with every character etched perfectly so that every character is memorable no matter how fleeting an appearance he/she makes.

Munnariyippu is one of the most intriguing films made in recent times.

The slow pace makes a not so good movie out of what could be a great short story

[rajesh-ravindran · 5/10 · 29 August 2014]

"Munariyippu" starts with a very interesting backdrop for the title credits - of a dead lizard being carried away by ants. This right after a disclaimer that "No animals were harmed in the making of this film". I found it very farcical. But then they stretched it for so long, focusing on it while ants carried that lizard from one end of the screen to the other for a good 5 minutes, that one got distracted and bored by the end of it.

This is exactly my complaint against the rest of the movie. It takes a very interesting premise, maybe what can be justified as a farce/satire, but turns you off by stretching it way too long.

"Munariyippu" as a story concept is very intriguing and interesting. The first half takes some time to set in, which is fine if not for the (what I qualify as) pseudo intellectualism, references to Kafka and the irreverence of "new generation" to political philosophies and such. Aparna Gopinath comes across a little out of her comfort zone, but then we start getting used to her aspiring and talented journalist Anjali. As the movie progresses, we start getting irritated with her as well, which I believe is the intention of the director too. The journalist get-togethers, Anjali's apartment, the Maggi dinners, the details are actually well captured. But we wait for the "action" to start, for the story to get going. But unfortunately that never happens.

There are some really funny characters, like the library assistant, the kid from the restaurant, the "cameo" character, who seem there only for the comic relief but still gel in well. I wish that if the director understood the need for comic relief, he had also foreseen the need for a quicker pace. Just like Anjali's micromanaging of Mammootty's writing in the second half, I felt like going and checking with the director of when things will start happening. Alas, by the time it happened, I had already guessed what would be the end, no thanks to the usher who opened the doors in time to warn us that the movie is going to end while we were still waiting for this "happening".

Mammootty stands out as usual by giving a very sober and subtle performance as the innocent, tormented man who is funny yet mysterious - as if a mix of his earlier jailed characters from "Mathilukkal" and "Yathra". Aparna Gopinath does fine. The other actors have also done a good work especially Renji Panicker and Nedumudi Venu. The locations are unique, a different view of Kozhikode.

Overall, the slow pace of the movie, takes the zing out of the story. Despite all the good acting, "Munariyippu" disappoints as a full length feature film. Wish they had kept it crisper. Lets hope Venu's next movie has a better story and a more "entertaining" pace.

Awesome

[amruthkiran007-90-264549 · 10/10 · 30 August 2014]

Just awesome. I have no words to describe. A movie you must watch. Increases your thinking. Best movie in Mammootty's career till now. The point is this : "Living a life without considering our interests, freedom etc is pointless". Mammootty was living as C.K. Raghavan in this movie. - Unni R's brilliant script is the unparalleled positive thing about this flick, no gimmicks, no masala, nothing but pure class. The dialogs he has written are mind blowing and you'll realize the depth of many only after you leave the theater and start thinking about it. At a point during the second half,we can't really predict how the movie is going to end because there is lots of missing links and also very less time.But the script is so brilliantly written that all our doubts are cleared at the very end.

An Excellent Movie.!!!

[wickedDarkoo · 10/10 · 30 August 2014]

'Munnariyippu' opens with a top angle shot. As the credits scroll on the screen, in the background an army of ants shift a dead gecko from the screen's left to the right. It is not clear whether the ants have killed the gecko. But they are sure about where they are heading. And they move slowly to that destination. Every once in a while comes along a film that demands from us more than few bucks at the pay counter. It demands attention, asks for involvement. To savour it fully, it isn't enough to watch it. 'Munnariyippu' is going to be one such film. For the classic that it is, 'Munnariyippu' is bound to remain in the hearts of those who care for the art of visual storytelling for long time to come.

C K Raghavan is a convicted prisoner for murdering two females. A freelance journalist Anjali who comes to the central prison to help the prison superintendent in writing his autobiography becomes curious about this interesting prisoner and tries to explore the real story behind this man from his own pen. Anjali's journey to know the intellectual Raghavan is what Munnariyippu focusing on.

Mammootty as Raghavan is riveting and this is undoubtedly one of the best characters by him recently. The actor who gets a serious character throughout delivers it with his nuances and body language. His dialogue delivery is also brilliant. Aparna Gopinath gets a very meaty role and she is very much comfortable in it. She is very much fortunate to get a good amount of screen space and utilities it very well. Ranji Paniker, Joy Mathew, Nedumudi Venu, Kochupreman are all good in their roles.

On the making side, the director has totally avoided the use of clichéd loud masala flavors and as I said earlier, a simple narrative pattern is followed from the start to the end to make Munnariyippu a differently treated film. The film has a very good story-line (By Venu) which is missing in most of the movies today. It is honest and hard hitting. Screenplay is excellent and engaging and the there are no scenes irrelevant or forced. Direction is very good and you can see the experience of a veteran technician like Venu with Munnariyippu. But the highlight of the movie is brilliant dialogues.

First half of the film introduces the major characters and sets a good base. Second half is engaging and the dialogues also keeps you interested towards the narrative leading to a shocker climax. This is where the movie reveals everything about the movie and need a your whole brain to connect things. There is no spoon feeding for the audience here and will require your senses to understand it.

Munnariyippu is one of the most intriguing films made in recent times.

A must watch for movie lovers!!!

[jarcksSS · 10/10 · 25 September 2014]

Rather than sit here and type out a review, I would fain go watch 'Munnariyippu' once again. A movie that I had been eagerly waiting for, 'Munnariyippu' is cinematographer-turned-director Venu's second film, his first being 'Daya', which was released long back in 1998. I must say my wait has been justified; the film is mesmerizingly brilliant and excels in almost all departments.

Let me begin with a word of caution. Those fed on typical, formulaic box office fare and those who look for a conventional plot structure and a conventional kind of climax may end up being disappointed with 'Munnariyippu'

'Munnariyippu' begins as the story of Anjali Arakkal (Aparna Gopinath), a young freelance journalist who, in a bid to earn some money, agrees to do ghost writing for Jail Superintendent Ramamurthy (Nedumudi Venu). During her talks with Ramamurthy, she gets introduced to Raghavan (Mammootty), a rather silent, meek kind of guy. Ramamurthy tells her that Raghavan has served his term for having committed double homicide and now continues to be there in jail, even after having completed his term a few years back. Anjali's curiosity is aroused when Raghavan later tells her, in a low, whisper-like voice, that he has not killed anyone. She talks to him too and eventually publishes, in a leading magazine, a story on him, focusing on the philosophical jottings that Raghavan had done while in jail. Raghavan, who is least bothered about publicity or getting out of jail, thus becomes sort of a celebrity. It's from here that the story develops.

The main highlight of 'Munnariyippu' is that it's powerful, with a gripping narrative at its best. Characterization, especially when it comes to the key players in the story, also happens to be among the strong points of the movie.

'Munnariyippu' raises some very relevant questions, as regards life, as regards freedom and presents a new perspective at times. There's a philosophical undertone all through, especially after the character of Raghavan is introduced. The climax just leaves us stunned; yes, it may be a bit predictable for some, but it's stunning and indeed makes us think all the way back home. And, I feel, watching the film once again would be best; it may help you comprehend the whole thing better and maybe in a new way.

Mammootty gives an excellent and convincing performance as Raghavan and once again proves that complicated characters like Raghavan would always remain safe with him. Aparna Gopinath gives her career best till date and shines as Anjali. The others do their respective roles convincingly well, it's just that some of the characters seem typical and thereby don't offer scope for much performance to the respective players.

Hats off to Venu the ace cinematographer who gives us real brilliant frames all through the film. Seems like he is weaving up the plot using his camera as well. Bina gives ample support at the editing table while art-work by Jythoish Shankar too deserves mention.

Bijibal delivers the kind of music that the plot demands. Rewind the film and you'd find that the music is almost unnoticeable. It doesn't blare out unnecessarily or go unwarrantedly loud and is a perfect sync with the mood and the theme.

Unni R has come out with a brilliant script, based on story by Venu. Plot-development, characterization, dialogue-writing and every other aspect of the narrative has been handled deftly and it's perhaps his best script till date and one of the best ever in malayalam as well.

Venu proves that being prolific is of least importance. It's after a gap of 16 years that Venu is delivering his second film, as director. Why should he strive to be prolific, when the two films that he has delivered till date outweigh the scores of films delivered by many prolific contemporaries of his? 'Munnariyippu' is definitely a film with master strokes on the directorial side and would stand at par with international standards of filmmaking.

Verdict- Brilliant, unconventional, intriguing, thought-inducing and one of the best films to come out in recent times, not just in Malayalam!!!

Simple yet Profound

[dvxasdon · 10/10 · 9 September 2020]

Introduction

Please see the Film before reading this review because I don't want any of you to ruin your film experience by reading these stupid theories (Valid unless verified by the Director) proposed by me. I believe atleast some part of this film is inspired by some person in real life. The character seems realistic in ways I cannot describe.

There could be flaws in this film and I simply don't care because we humans are not perfect too, like our creations. I don't claim to have any expertise with films other than a fanaticism for this movie and an active and empathizing imagination.

This film is a character study very much like the Joker movie released recently. The driving point of the story is to understand how the character's mind works and ultimately what choices he made/will make in the course of story.

This film suggests that society has a bias against independence as the Policeman interrogates the journalist in a confrontational manner. And in cases like Raghavan where he would go to any lengths to preserve his freedom, Society fears this freedom. And how do we deal with lies. By telling lies to ourselves that there is nothing to fear. That's why the Journalist is curious to prove that Raghavan is not the killer because otherwise this humble and soft spoken person would be the killer which almost seems impossible for her.

The Path of the Journalist:

The Journalist in the movie truly desires freedom. Her aspiration for freedom is evident from her dressing to the ornaments (Necklace, Earrings, Bangles, Watch, Ring, and Nose Stud) she wear and the way she has kept her hair short. She refuses to be dictated by the society's way of normal. And she is a freelancer too. One cannot imagine a more liberated woman in the society hindered by nothing. But she allowed her independence to be traded for earning respect from a senior journalist. Now she is a slave to that desire. She looks Independent but is not at all Independent. As she grew more interested in Raghavan she became allowed herself to be dependent on him by signing the Book contract. Raghavan never sought anything from her. Yet she went on demanding like he owed her something.

C.K. Raghavan is a prisoner sentenced for two homicides. People feel sorry for himself that he had to spend 20 years in prison. He doesn't feel sorry for himself that he had to spend so much time. He knows that he had done those crimes and feels that he deserves that punishment and may be even more. He even may have realized that once he gets out, past could repeat itself. Therefore in his mind he belongs inside the Prison. He looks dependent inside a Prison but is truly independent. His welfare is now the State's priority and he can be pre-occupied with his life and his thought as much as he wants. No one would bother him there.

Raghavan is a Pure Intellectual. Whatever be his moral or aesthetic sense everything is grounded in reason. He can't lie because he has no reason to lie. He doesn't desire for anything but to indulge in his thinking. He is not educated in the traditional sense but is widely read. He knows about the Ashoka Stamph and the four lions. A man who has no wide knowledge about things cannot comment that as such a trivia is not often mentioned anywhere even in books. Truth is for him like that fourth lion is hidden in plain sight but exists like the truth that he is a murderer.

He repeatedly says that he didn't kill anybody. What he means may be is that it is not the act of killing that takes precedence but the act of him preserving his Freedom. He agrees about his mindset with his bar mates. He has told them indirectly that he is the one who killed. That is the limit. If he tells the truth then his freedom and independence is lost. To regain his freedom he has to kill them. Probably this is how his mind works. His celebrity status via the media Report also caused him to wander any public place without being stalked and observed by random strangers. After the incident at the bar he realizes that for him everyone is interested in only the truth which he so desperately hides.

He is most probably not a Psychopath, could be a Sociopath; But definitely suffers from some Psychotic Disorders; He is trying to Block his memories of Past as the scene from storming from Beach (throwing the peanuts in his hands in a fit of rage) suggests. His mind wanders like we see Raghavan wandering the streets and the beach and the lonely outskirts of the house he stayed. He denies the truth that he is a murder but he realizes that he can't deny the truth in the real world any longer. Only after realizing that she has undertaken a contract did he realized that the killing was inevitable. That hints that he wanted to avoid killing as much as possible.

Some could argue that he is a prisoner of the past. So if he stays in the society past would come to haunt him in one way or the other. He is a man who waits patiently for his death. He calls life as "Maranathinu munneyulla vepralam" (Chaos before Impending Death). That definition of Death suits his victims as well as everyone who choose to remain dependent on either society or their own desires.

Framing a Convincing Backstory for Raghavan:

Raghavan uses Rationality too much (more than a Healthy Individual) and therefore whatever child hood past trauma he suffered he uses Rationalization and Avoidance to hide that trauma. He is more likely an Orphan (We can see in the paper cutting shown in the movie half of a sentence which suggests that nobody knows about the familial conditions of Raghavan) and probably a hard working one too. Most likely the two women he have killed have proposed a marriage to him. Only after his first marriage did he realized the loss of independence and he killed her probably by accident or impulsively because she pressured him too much. She was also jealous or possessive of him too as the woman in the house where he was employed was too flirtatious with him and she got suspicious. After the death probably his second victim pressured him for a remarriage with her. May be he felt like she was the cause of the suspicion of his wife and he killed her too, this time deliberate. It was not just love but obsession from all three victims which could have led to their death. His enigmatic and seemingly puritanical character may have drawn each of the victims to him.

The Weird smile by Raghavan before killing the Journalist is actually an enigma. His face doesn't reflect any contempt or regret or any discernible expression. It was a smile plastered just not to allow adrenaline to take control before the victim falls on the floor. The Photos on the Wall in his prison cell are not actually facing him. But anyone who sees the room would probably notice those pictures. May be those photo are meant to be some kind of Trophies like Serial killers do. Or it is meant to serve as warning for anyone who tries to get close to him as anyone who visits him at the prison cell would notice those pictures above th head of sitting Raghavan. He appears docile in front of the Journalists. The only motivation I could think of is may be to try avoid killing her and maybe he thought she would leave him after getting tired of pushing him to write. His intellectual and rather self-sufficient nature is seen by the gestures he shows with his hands. He needs only his intellect to engage him. Again the question of where does he gets the Photos of victims is also confusing.

Camera zooms only in the conversation where Raghavan replies that he is no God. The Zooming may suggest that it is somehow the connecting thread of the movie. All the women victims of his has godly expectations of him but Ragahavan realizes that being a flawed human being with a flawed past, he can't fulfill the unnatural ambition of these woman. So he believes that a flawed being like him doesn't see committing a killing as a crime. He sees it as an inevitable choice for his freedom. It is quite ironical that to attain one kind of freedom Raghavan had to give up so much other kinds of freedom. But it also stresses that the freedom that he preserves is the most valued than the ones he has lost.

Conclusion

I don't mention the names of actors and the technicians behind the movie because instead of naming them I am honoring them by honoring their work and may be inspire atleast a handful to check out the names of those people who worked behind the scenes.

I like the film because it is simple and straight to the point. But truth underlying it is visible as well as invisible for me. Every theory I propose could be wrong and Raghavan could just be a lazy Psychopath who sees associating with humans as too cumbersome.

So what is the Munnariyippu or Warning the film's title is talking about. The Warning was the Photo of two Victims displayed in his prison cell probably. She never impartially investigated the crimes. She only met the people who may have been fooled by the people who were not aware of the darker side of Raghavan.

Short review

[sarathpillaijl · 9/10 · 17 January 2019]

The story is very strange. The audio mix., Visuals, acting everything is perfect. The story of a psycho penned in a subtle way. Cannot write much about the story as it would spoil the movie. Overall good movie

A very good movie but is not suitable if you are looking for entertainment....

[nishanthks373 · 9/10 · 29 August 2014]

First and foremost,The movie is not an entertainer.Everyone may not like the movie.So,please don't go with your family for enjoying.Its a slow paced movie which is the highlight because it shows the real daily life of the main character C.K.Raghavan.

Mammootty has done a great job as C.K.Raghavan. Credit should be given to director Venu for molding Mammootty into Raghavan,especially after a lot of disastrous films from the actor.

After ABCD,this is Aparna Gopinathan's comeback in a strong role as Anjali,a free lancer journalist who wants to be famous but is still a ghost writer.She has done a brilliant job in coloring the screen against a dull life of Raghavan.

None of the other actors have any meaningful role in the movie.Nedumudi Venu,Prathap Pothan,Renji Panicker and Joy Mathew all did pretty well in their respective roles.They all promised a lot but actually there was nothing in their roles.Prithviraj appears in a cameo for the movie.His role actually had some meaning changing Anjali's view of life and he did it neatly.

Even after expecting a slow movie,the second half felt little dragging. At a point during the second half,we can't really predict how the movie is going to end because there is lots of missing links and also very less time.But the script is so brilliantly written that all our doubts are cleared at the very end.

Munnariyppu - A Defective Product

[arunrcmanjeri · 5/10 · 28 August 2014]

Munnariyppu, directed by the Senior Cinematographer Venu and penned by famous writer Unni.R, is focusing on a particular point we have to follow in our life. The three main persons who came to Anjali Arakkal's(Aparna) life is talking about this point. But all the threes' approach to the point is different. This is the specialty,I felt in Munnariyippu.

The point is this : "Living a life without considering our interests, freedom etc is pointless".

C.K.Raghavan(Mammotty), while sitting in the BAR, tells, 'We want to go forward in life, by avoiding the things that make restrictions on us.'

Anjali's would-be says to her, 'Life will go smoothly if we live it by doing what we like to do. Otherwise we will get older very early.'

Anjali's mom tell her, 'Leave the job if its that much stressful. Peace of mind is what we want'.

All these three things are pointing to a single point of life. As told earlier, "Living a life without considering our interests, freedom etc is pointless". But each of them approaches this in different ways. How they approach and how that will effect in their lives is what 'Munnariyuppu' deals with.

Considering this part, 'Munnariyippu' is a must watch movie. But were it fails is the ending portion. A normal viewer won't be convinced with such an end or such a sudden end. The makers must have done some more homework in this part. That part makes the movie not every ones cup of tea.

Caution....This Movie is Fantastic..

[codename1707 · 9/10 · 15 November 2014]

I just don't know how to put in words how great this movie is...

But on the other hand it's not for everyone....causal movie seekers who watch films to just bypass time or just for some silly laughs.Might not find this movie very attractive.

But to the others,I'll guarantee that you will be talking about this movie even after the curtain fall.I haven't watched something like this in Malayalam for a long long time.But it's worth the wait.

Every Aspect of the movie was brilliant.

Direction - Top Notch, Only fault is that he should have made more films

Acting - Beyond Words.....Both Aparna & Mammootty

Music\Background Score - This is the soul of the film.

Only fault that i could point out is that.....The second half was kinda lagging but that's what made the Ending Special...

So in Short .....If you Truly love Films.....You Should not miss this for the world.

stunning!

[riddicksilent · 9/10 · 14 November 2017]

Unbelievably superb . This is actually one of the greatest movie made in malayalam. The movie is well acted by mamooty and the movie is a treat to watch for art movie lovers.If I say it simply the movie is a bit disturbing and haunting . I bet that you will never be disappointed .

Wow,wow,wow Brilliant Brilliant film!!!

[smrazvpz · 10/10 · 31 March 2018]

When a brilliant actor join hands with brilliant director and brilliant writer the result is Munnariyppu!!!

It's a rare happening in Indian cinema to see such a mind-blowing movie that you can think about it a lot even after watching the movie!!!

Venu acclaimed director's second film breaks the stereotypes in Malayalam cinema and Unni.R proves that he is such a versatile writer. (The same man who written dialogues for Big-B movie) When it comes to acting everybody has done their job at the finest. From Aparna Gopinath to the kid who supplies food to our man CK Raghavan.

It's Mammootty who made this movie an unforgettable journey with his subtle and brilliant acting.May be that's why I write this review even after 4 years since it released. He proves that he's the most versatile and flexible actor in Malayalam cinema or in Indian cinema.He just became CK Raghavan without any stiffness and with at most brilliance!!! I can't imagine nobody in that role.

The movie gives you shock at the edge of the climax and I really loved it.But it won't end there,director Venu leaves you with a lot of questions,but the best part is answers for all those questions are there in cinema it self. It's pretty little bit difficult to get the CK Raghavan completely but a second time watch will give you a complete idea about him. Kudos to Mammootty for making that character fantabulous!!!

It's severely underrated one!!! My all-time favorite!!! Munnariyppu!!!

A slightly slow but interesting psychological drama with a great ending

[krishnan357-33-782579 · 8/10 · 2 May 2022]

I have to confess that I knew the ending before watching the movie. That made me look for clues that Raghavan was going to kill Anjali. There are a few scenes where it is hinted that Raghavan was a murderer, but I would have liked more information on the murders of his wife and employer's daughter. As of now, we know practically next to nothing about them.

The second half was a bit slower than I would have liked. But some of the conversations like the one in the bar kept me engaged.

Mammootty's acting was quite amazing, playing a mild-mannered character. I liked that the makers used Mammoootty to ensure that the audience empathized with the character.

Overall, I had a very good experience with Munnariyippu.

A good thriller

[raulukmj · 8/10 · 16 September 2018]

This was a good Mammotty movie after long. With exceptional scripting and very toned down acting (ie sans hero touches), Mammotty shows why he is the master.

A journalist follows the life of an in mate Raghavan. Raghavan is in jail for murder, but it's hard to believe a person like him can do that. His ways and thoughts keeps him a class apart from regular criminals. He also enjoys good friendship with police officers. The story takes an interesting turn once he is released from jail.

Without touching on any spoilers, it's sheer pleasure to watch Mammotty sail through this role. Aparna Gopinath has a good role in the movie.

A thought provoking thriller

[muraliksmenon · 8/10 · 6 November 2014]

Movie is really enjoyable and feast to watch. But the climax was predictable.

positives about the movie is direction, background score and fine performances by all.

There were some brilliant dialogues and quotes throughout the movie. Climax was as expected and every mystery was explained in the last scene. But still there are some questions that are answered. After watching the movie, one thing i didn't understand is, being a ghost writer, why the journalist was waiting for CK Raghavan to write the story. Why she didn't try to write his story herself? why she never asked about his background and how he was prisoned? can someone answer?

Not a thriller but a killer!

[indiancat · 2/10 · 25 August 2014]

This movie claims to be a thriller, but after watching I say it is a killer! Yes! It kills all good mood in you after watching. Positives I found: The acting of the boy who delivers food to Mammootty and occasional symbolic quotes by Mamootty. Camera work is commendable as expected from Venu. It seems that the director/writer had a great story in mind but failed to develop it into a good one. This movie doesn't need an actor like Mamootty at the first place. Secondly how on earth did Mamootty agreed to act in it! The pace of the movie is that of a snail. The predictability factor is very important for a thriller. In this case it lacks unpredictability.

At the end, this movie will give you a lot to think. Mainly about our decision to watch such a movie. Anyhow it is a must watch for those curious movie goers who want to ascertain what has gone wrong with this movie.