Premam (2015) User Reviews (109)

Watched thrice - loved each time!

[cinish · 9/10 · 15 June 2015]

Watched the movie yesterday, the serum of rejuvenation that it injected into me yesterday is still flowing strong. I plan to watch the movie again possibly multiple times over this week. The movie has great humor, is amazingly truthful , beautifully heartwarming.

Against the backdrop of simple and unassuming friendships, portrayed with excellent humor, multiple tales of love are presented. All the love stories presented have the genuineness of everyday life. Spectacular things do not happen which makes it so relatable. There are multiple points in life at which one is enamored by someone else and typically things do not work out all the way each time until finally it does. That is all the movie is about - a pretty simple and evident aspect of life.

The movie is a total entertainer as it has great humor, presented with unabashed innovation,awesome songs, great scenery, timely stunt scenes to keep the pep up and most importantly the theme of love that flows through sincerely, straight into your heart, presented with all the vulnerabilities and insecurities that comes with loving someone deeply and giving someone else much more power than oneself.

Movie is novel in its presentation. The sequence of execution does not fit into any of the typical patterns. The movie presents three different time periods with the same characters which worked very well.

Alphonse Putheren has himself played a small cameo role in the movie which is going to endear him to the malayali psyche even more . It is clear that a lot of hard work has gone into the movie and it has been designed to be an entertainer and the movie has worked really really well. He is clearly masterful as the impressions his movie left on me 24 hours back lingers on pretty strong - it is not just the joy of love, the vulnerabilities, the sorrow , the excitement everything lingers on - hats off!

Just back from my third view of the movie. There is not one scene that does not deliver. You appreciate each and every scene and the movie comes to an end smoothly to a successful finish.

"A Thoroughly Enjoyable Offering From Alphonse Puthren"

[afsalthodupuzha · 8/10 · 2 June 2015]

I went for 'Premam' after witnessing the massive positive response that the movie received from the day of its release and naturally expectations were sky-high,which luckily didn't turn wrong as Alphonse Puthren could succeed in producing a delicious entertainer with originality in narration right from the word go.Made on a template that brims with inventiveness and unique stamp of the narrator,Premam is a good example of how intense belief that one has on himself can result in an alluring creation.

Premam presents three different phases in the love-life of Protagonist George with hope,despair,success,failure,re-invention and optimism all going hand-in-hand on the course of the narration.The screenplay written by Alphonse himself smartly utilizes genuine situational humor to ensure that the audience is glued to the seats till the end of the feature.

"Butterflies are mentally mental,so is love" unveils on the screen as the end credit starts to roll,a perfect way to end all the madness associated with love that the movie showcased in its running time of around 166 minutes ranging from simple infatuation to deep love and from budding romance to heart-break and finally tying knot with the 'one'.

The tempo of narration is somewhat slow or rather realistic,but never really tests the patience of the audience due to the emotional connect that the lead characters manages to develop and maintain with the viewers because of Alphonse's dexterity in presentation and the strong support of the whole technical and acting departments.

Nivin Pauly continues his winning streak,this time with a pinch of #Kalipp added to his usual romeo avatar.The actor has managed to pull off three different phases in George's life with ease and won the hearts yet again after his character "Umesh" in the recent release "Oru Vadakkan Selfie".All the female leads did their job pretty well with Sai Pallavi being the pick who made me fall in love with her instantly likable character 'Malar'.Madonna Sebastian was lovable with her realistic performance and unmatchable cuteness.Anupama Parameswaran did her part well even though she had less screen presence compared to other female leads.Vinay Fort and Saubin Shahir were hilarious.Alphonse Puthren,Renji Panicker and Jude Anthany Joseph made their cameos remarkable.

The score by Rajesh Murugesan was innovative and tailored for the storyline.Lyrics by Shabareesh Verma were refreshing.All the 7 songs and numerous song-bits used were situational and never harmed the pace of the narration."Malare" song in particular was brilliantly shot and the best part of the score.Cinematography by Anend C Chandran was good while the cuts by director himself was fine.

Overall,'Premam' is a delicious tale of love that has its heart laid at the right place.

Verdict::With Focused Direction,Well-Written Screenplay,Lovable Characters,Perfect Casting,Good Performances,Sound Technical Support & Refreshing Music Premam Is Undoubtedly The Best Entertainer To Comeout From Mollywood In Recent Times.Go For This Wholesome Entertainer & Enjoy All The Fun In Store.Love Is In The Air!

Premam......It's Nivin Pauly's time now

[codename1707 · 8/10 · 31 May 2015]

This film doesn't have a strong story line but I wasn't bored for a second.I went to see this film coz of Alphonse Puthren(Neram) and also due to the fact that this was produced by Anwar Rasheed(Usthad Hotel,Bglr Days).

Unlike Oru Vadakan Selfie which was like 99% Entertainment and 1 % story.This is way better it's like 50-50.No humourless comedy,no unwanted songs.Maybe because Alphonse editing it felt like a carefully crafted piece of diamond.

Quick Review-

Story - 7\10 - Simple and fun

Songs - 9\10 - I personally liked Kalipu and Scene Contra

Direction\Cinematography - 9\10 - Perfect setting,shots.

Overall - 8\10 - One of the decent movies I have seen in Malayalam for a long time.

Perfectly well crafted entertainer

[sidharthskumar00 · 10/10 · 30 May 2015]

"What a way to refresh yourself.." This is what came to my mind after watching this film. Being a great fan of the mastermind Alphonse Puthren and his debut film Neram, this didn't disappoint me. But it did impress me.

It may not be a life-changing, mind-blowing film. But a clean romantic comedy that lies closer to reality than you think. Unintentional and situational comedy that shows up almost in every scene of the film, can clean your mind of any stress or anything of that sort that you have at the moment.

The direction of the film as usual is exemplary. The edits (that too done by the director) certainly utilities the factor of directorial edited films. The film certainly lacks a story but that factor is hidden by the beautifully captured visuals thanks to the cinematographer, Anend. Screenplay is good. Production value and art was natural at it's level best as most of the places shown in the film originally exists.

The film is divided into 3 acts that covers 3 stages of the life of George, a care-free living youngster - the first one covering the romantic relationship of George while studying in 12th grade is the shortest one of the film. The second covering his collage life is the longest and the most stylish\epic one among that, making it my favorite. The last act shows the life of George after his collage life, now a working class fellow. The film's main plot is based on 3 different women that George fell in love with during the 3 different stages.

Simple and elegant plot which lags a bit in the last half hour is the only problem with the film that I saw.

Positives :-

1. Nivin Pauly himself is a great asset to the film. The film too should be a great asset to him as this film is the best work I saw from him. He has improved his weaknesses like acting out emotional scenes and dance. OMG, the wonderful dance choreographed by Sai Pallavi is amazing. And Nivin has danced it to perfection.

2. All other male stars. When I say this I mainly mean none others that Krishna Sankar and Shabareesh Varma. Shabareesh does a kind of one man show which is my other favorite of the film. Being a lyricist and a singer, the actor have given all his level best performance at all areas. Vinay fort, Maniyanpilla Raju was also good.

3. All the three lead actresses were pretty good. Mostly Sai Pallavi who changed the entire course of the film with her cute performance as Malar miss smile emoticon

4. Wonderful cameos. There are a lot of cameos throughout. First one being Jude Anthony as Jolly D' Cruz. Then there is Renji Panicker as David who did a stylish role with the superbly written dialogs from his own films. Finally there is the director himself as Ronnie who is a drug addict and the only or mainly the villain of the film.

5. Superb stunt scenes. There is hardly 2 scenes of fights in the entire film and the main one in that being George's collage intro. I sure wished there was more of that frown emoticon

6. Amazing cinematography and superb Edits.

7. The best soundtrack I've ever heard along with Chandrettan Evideya and Neram.

Negatives :-

1. A little lag that happens the final half hour.

Verdict - Premam is a surely must watch entertainer

The Best Of Malayalam Cinema

[yatinmago · 10/10 · 14 February 2017]

No Doubts. Premam Is One Of The Best From The Malayalam Cinema. I Have Watched Only 2 Malayalam Movies Yet One 1983 Starring Nivin Pauly And Second This Premam. Nivin Pauly Is The Finest Actor Of The Malayalam Cinema. He is The Only One Who Can Take Malayalam Cinema To The Next Level And Can Compete With Bollywood And No Doubt Malayalam Cinema Is Far Better Than The Other Religious Cinemas. Hope To See Other Love Stories Like This From Nivin Pauly And From Rest Of The Malayalam Cinema. The Movie Was Also Remaked In Telugu Which I Don't Suggest You But If You Watch Telugu Movies You Can Go For It. Otherwise Watch Only Original Stuffs Not Remakes.

Must watch!!

[oyontahmid · 10/10 · 30 November 2018]

Who want to start watching Malayalam movie for the first time, he/she should start with this. He/she will be just fan of malayalm movie

Undoubtedly Premam is a winner !!

[chiranjivmalla · 9/10 · 14 February 2016]

Don't think otherwise I wrote a review for the film which got released 6 months back. What to do when I want to watch other language films, I need to wait for subs ;). That is where the delay. Anyhow here we go !

Premam film doesn't have a strong story line but I wasn't bored for a second. The way I got recommendations to watch Ustad Hotel, Bangalore Days & Neelakasam Pachadkal & Chuvannabhumi, likewise I got recommendations to watch Premam too. (Ofcourse I watched it with subs, manaki Hindi ye raadu sarigga.... inka malayalam aithey illileyoo..;) ) The way Malayalam Industry is making films now a days is spending very low budget and getting huge revenues. Actually Premam will come into that category.It's an emotional ride filled with good performances,extreme highs & lows and situational comedy and you travel with the characters throughout the story. Considering the scope of Malayalam industry this film has taken it to the next level actually. Overall it is a visually appealing chronicle of love with few blemishes.

Nivin pauly and Alphonse puthren taking malayalam cinema to an another level!

[soorujose619 · 10/10 · 4 June 2015]

This film is just mind blowing!,i have never seen such a well executed movie with a brilliant sound and screen play in Malayalam cinema.

As the title cards of Alphonse Puthren's 'Premam' came up, I couldn't stop thinking of those butterflies - the swallow tails and the cabbage whites, the blue bottles and the bird wings - that once flitted around with fragrant memories of an entire generation's childhood laden on their pretty wings. They seem to have wholly vanished and are no longer seen fluttering around these alley ways ridden with smoke and dust and have perhaps moved on to greener meadows where the sparkle of an unsullied dew drop awaits.

It is this perfumed whiff of reminiscences that the film rakes up with its very first scene that makes 'Premam' one of the best films that I have watched till now this year; one that it maintains till the very last scene that comes almost after three hours. Bursting with hopefulness and loaded with resilience, 'Premam' is a stunning cinematic piece that talks of the process of falling in love, breaking a heart, nurturing a stinging memory or two for the rest of your life and above all, letting go and moving on.

'Premam' follows its protagonist George (Nivin Pauly) and the three women who walk into his life - Mary (Anupama Parameswaran), his first love during those baffling pre-degree days, Malar (Sai Pallavi), his new teacher at college who surprisingly reciprocates his feelings and Celin (Madonna Sebastian) who finally lays down an anchor to his otherwise bobbling life.

And then there is love itself, and the different shades that the oldest of human emotions brings in its fray. It does take a few years for George to get over the dejection that his first love had brought along with, and when Malar grabs his hand and walks forward life sprouts flowers all around. It's when these petals had long wilted and withered by, that Celin arrives accentuating once and for all that fresh shoots are bound to spring up after the heavy rains.

'Premam' adopts a juicily unmarked conversational tone for the most part, and the audience draws in a few chairs and sits along with George and his pals as they plan and replan his life. It's no shocker then that his joys become ours as much as his grief does; his exultation and desolation are all ours to share as well.

'Premam' spellbinds you with some real awesome performances from a group of young actors who seem to have thrown caution to the winds and who have gone at their respective roles - long or short - with a vengeance. The casting director of the film merits a bow, for there is not one actor in it who looks out of place.

Nivin Pauly as George is tremendously remarkable, and comes up with one of his best performances till date. As he breaks down and walks away from the real love of his life, he manages to throw an entire cinema hall into silence with his tears, as much as he had driven them into irrepressible fits of mirth not much earlier.

The three girls are equally extraordinary, but it's Sai Pallavi who wins the show hands down, with a bravura feat as the guest lecturer Malar who wins over George's heart. She lights up the screen with her fabulous screen presence, and with the most precise of expressions underlines that she is here to stay. Madonna Sebastian with her curious Bambi-esque eyes and agreeable smile breezes in while Anupama Parameshwaran retains the youthful charm that is required of Mary to the hilt.

It's impossible to think of 'Premam' without that dazzling musical score by Rajesh Murugesan, with many a hummable number forming a part of the highly notable soundtrack. 'Premam' almost qualifies for a musical, and a decent one at that, since this is one film where you really do not mind those songs gushing into the narrative unapologetically; where the music camouflages itself and remains an indiscernible part of the account.

Equally arresting is the cinematography by Anand C Chandran, who throws in an assortment of splendid visuals that capture the essence of the film to the core. His camera is unhesitant and ventures as much to the corner of an aisle to catch an incessantly chirping sparrow in action or on to the placid waters of a pool where a wayward frog has landed himself in. The verdant greenness that pervades his indoor and outdoor frames is stimulating and this ocular wizardry that Anand throws in contributes much to the stellar film that 'Premam' evolves into.

'Premam' elevates Alphonse Puthren onto a pedestal of sharp film makers who have figured out the actual potential of the medium that cinema is. And in their competent hands long-standing tales assume ground-breaking forms and enthuse the viewers in ways and manners never seen before. Much more than an unabashed crowd-pleaser, which it surely is, 'Premam' is a bracingly alive film where almost everything,

To all Malayalam movie fans don't miss this spectacular film!

Premam is an awesome movie

[pgp007 · 9/10 · 3 June 2015]

Filled with simple jokes, emotional performances and situational comedy, it feels fresh and beautiful than any other recent sterile Malayalam movies. The second act with Malar is simply the best part of the movie and where all the "Premam" happens. Kudos to a mesmerizing performance by Sai Pallavi as Malar. Nivin Pauly is at his best, some of his scenes are jaw droppingly powerful. Anupama E Parameswaran and the rest of the cast does a great job too. It's an emotional ride with extreme highs and lows and you travel with the characters through their arc and the story is gracefully wound up. It's one of those films you never want to end, coz you're having such a great time following its story and characters. Cinematography is beautifully ambient, music is catchy, story is simple and Direction is superb. The love of Alphonse Puthren is evident in his Directing and editing. In short Premam is simply one of the best movies I've ever seen and you too must watch it!

Its Great!!

[noblesaji · 30 May 2015]

First of all I watched the movie without any preconceptions and expectations as I thought it would be a simple love story as the name suggests, but in turn it came out to be an excellent entertainer. The movie is so captivating right from the beginning. It's a mixed bucket of our nostalgic childhood and the exact revelation of our modern day life. Each and every actor played complete justice to their roles through out the movie. It's another type of a feel excellent movie which pumps you to the core. And of course there are many surprise packages indeed. And Alphonse Puthren, you are an absolute genius! The way you directed the movie deserves great applause. The turnovers, the frames, the cuts were simply brilliant. The type of celebration this movie injects is pretty much awesome. Kudos to the cinematographer and music director of the movie. Exceptional cinematography and some killer music! Goosebumps are guaranteed especially during fight scenes Watch it with an open mind keeping logic away and enjoy to the maximum. This movie is a sheer entertainer.

A Visually Appealing Chronicle Of Love. ♦ 71%

[nairtejas · 7/10 · 30 May 2015]

What do we talk about when we talk about love? One can expect a detailed answer from Alphonse Putharen's visually stunning second feature aptly titled Premam.

Nivin Pauly plays the ubiquitous lover George whose eventful life, from the age of 17 to when he grows into an adult, is what basically the film talks about. Other than his supportive and hugely carefree friends, there are 3 to 5 characters that play pivotal roles in his life. I will abstain from mentioning who and what they are because I think the makers purposely avoided publishing a trailer or showing them in the colorful posters. George is shamefully flirtatious and we, as an audience, almost empathize for him towards the end. Because he is one man greatly affected by love, and all that comes with it.

It starts by showing the rawness of the college-school scene that is prevalent in Kerala, where lungi-clad boys await their chosen girls to come out of their protective dens just so they can blow a whistle or pass that atrociously written love letter. Brilliance is the only word that can be used to describe the exceptional writing that introduces us into the film, hinting at what would be a long journey, in parts. The parlance, the neighborhood (Aluva Puzha, et al), the country behavior, and the relatability factor is so deliciously palatable. You will be swooned over by the photography and the inventive camera work, which reminds us about the creative person at the helm.

There is an ocean of humor with great timing that will definitely bowl you over. The small talks, those rejection slurs, those native semi-expletives, and wonderful situational comedy are what many sequences of the film made of. The textual graphics and arresting rock music will first intimidate you, and then numb your senses as you stay hypnotized in your seat.

Pauly has grown glamorous and confident since his Malarvadi Club days and with this, he has really included himself in the top actors currently working in Malayalam cinema. I could even say he surpasses Fahadh Faasil in terms of character portrayal because he is just too damn good. The supporting cast is equally competent, including the débutantes.

Great sound mixing, great editing, great music, great direction, great art setup, great everything, unless one starts to wonder about the story's movement. 3 songs stuffed in the first 40 minutes points to the most dangerous fact about the film, which is the absence of a measurable story. The second half blows a little, but soon picks up. The story, told in three parts, is a linear outline of a 5-second account of George's life, and thus, looks stretched. Of course, it manages to salvage the problem with a good climax that is followed by Putharen's remarkable crediting style.

Yes, when we talk about love, we usually talk about a bed of roses. But, Premam as a film that talks about the proposals, the rejection, the anticipation, the competition, the tragedy, the happiness, and the pleasure that is derived out of a sweet thing called love. The writing is immensely powerful if one manages to stay hooked, which the filmmaking factors do ensure.

It is definitely a watchable film that will brighten you up, but won't change anything. Because people still believe that love is calculated, when it is usually just random.

BOTTOM LINE: Premam is a kaleidoscopic narrative of a man's life as he goes on a wide search for love, which is sure to make even the most serious man laugh like a drain. Recommended!

RATING: 7 stars out of 10. 2015's best film yet.

Can be watched with a typical Indian family? YES

Premam - Azhage.. Malare..

[chandhu-sivaswamy · 10/10 · 30 November 2015]

Okay, we travelled some 35 kms to catch a Malayalam movie that too running without subtitles, which starts at midnight (11:50 pm) at Mayajaal and reached our room back in the morning 3:30. We were mad to do this, but we did it. We weren't disappointed, it was really worth it.

Premam, second movie from Alphonse Puthren who gave us a bilingual Neram, which really caught my eye and also introduced Nivin Pauly and Nazria to me. Premam is about Nivin's three stages of love. When he was in school, then during his final year of college and he was an adult. It was like Autograph, but this was even more fun.

Alphonse Puthren has given his best in his second movie. And, Nivin as usual he was fantastic and it was really a treat to watch him on screen. I thought Oru Vadakkan Selfie is going to be the best of his movie this year, but this one was even better.

First love was fun, where almost all the boys in her neighbourhood follows Mary when she leaves her tuition centre. And, she chooses someone else and Nivin ends up helping them in their love. This part was pictured in most beautiful locale. How green is Kerala, fantastic.

Second love was the best in the movie. It happens during his final year in college when he fell in love with a Tamil speaking guest lecturer Malar. She looks so lovely and her Kuthu dance was terrific that was literally stunning. If I have seen the title credits correctly, I think she's the one who choreographed the Rockankuthu song. Looking forward to see her in more films. And, there was another lecturer who loves Malar teacher one-sided. He was fun who even ask Nivin himself to help him and he teaches Mava sorry Java. Nivin's rugged look in this part suits him well and maintains that "gethu". And, this love ends in a tragic way.

The third and final part's love story comes with an unexpected twist. It may look bit too much, but you still got to love it. The director himself does a cameo in this part.

Music was really fantastic. Aluva and Malare songs were too good, especially Malare with Malar teacher. And, Scene Contra was a different love failure song. The interval looked forced as if just because it was mandatory like a strategic timeout in IPL when the team where going good. And, cinematography was rich and the director himself is the editor as well so that part was handled well.

All three ladies was beautiful, but we came out in love with Malar teacher. Nivin's two friends also come along with him throughout the movie and provide enough laughs. We got some 70% of the jokes, I wish they had released it in Tamil also like Neram or at least could have added subs, but never mind.

Easily the best romantic movie of this year so far. After OKK, this movie puts a smile on your face from the start until it ends and I loved this even more than OKK.

The movie's running length was big, but you never feel it. Premam was like a long ride on a rainy day in an empty road with Raja sir songs for company. You just wish the ride goes on and on.

My Rating - 5.0/5.0. Not to be missed.

Gut rot liquor in a Scotch whiskey bottle .....

[PimpinAinttEasy · 6/10 · 26 October 2015]

Dear Alphonse Puthren,

I think I know the reason why Premam was such a huge hit despite being a pretty average film.

You conjured up a few clever and remarkable moments, beautiful images and cast pretty women whose combined impact sort of out-weighed the poor writing and average acting.

Your film offers scenes from three different stages in the life of George. The first stage is his life as a love lorn teenager. This portion of the film has a magical and almost dreamlike quality to it, mainly due to the sepia tinged cinematography. Frankly Alphonse, some of the scenes were quite cringe worthy and the teenager's antics amounted to stalking of the female character.

The second stage is George's life as a rowdy college student. This part was quite entertaining and the slow motion fight scene was very well done. The actress Sai Pallavi makes quite an impact with her pizza face and wild dancing.

The third stage is George's life as an adult. This part was unremarkable at best. But the film does not go on for too long.

The language you used in the film is very candid and colloquial. Slow motion scenes are used to great effect. The visuals were very striking The songs were catchy and the women were gorgeous.

Nivin Pauly and his beard make quite an impact - especially in the second part of the film. The supporting was average at best.

When you really think about it, the film is nonsense. But it is tolerable nonsense.

I will watch your next film, Alphonse Puthren. Hope you can work harder on your writing.

Best Regards, Pimpin.

(5/10)

HIGHLY OVERRATED

[sanjaymahadev-83707 · 5/10 · 20 April 2021]

Such a childish movie I think the director is 20-30 years way beyond the present situation, the story is of 70s and 80s weak screenplay average acting, I heard there are lot of content oriented movies but this disappointed a lot no new content.

Film of Love,Feelings & Emotions

[samuelpalanieee · 10/10 · 25 March 2017]

A big thanks to director Alphonse Puthren.I watched this movie after the 1 1/2 year.Melodious Music by Rajesh Murugesan and Lyrics by Shabareesh Varma.Shabareesh Varma also played an excellent role in the movie as Shambu.Background Score by rajesh Murugesan is ultimate.I cannot understand the Malayalam,but even i watch this movie daily.Debutant Actors Anupama Parameshwaran,Sai pallavi, Madonna Sebstaian acted very well. The Bgm score in the final part is fabulous.Cinematography is excellent. The actor Nivin Pauly done a great job for his role.The comedy is excellent.Vinay Forte acted very well. So it is not film, its a film of feelings,love and emotions

Isn't it all about the telling, though

[sesht · 4 February 2016]

Observations from multiple big-screen viewings, most of those without English sub-titles (important-enough factor, since I do not understand the nuances of the Malayalam language, the way a native speaker would).

Had no idea about this when it released, other than the fact that it was a reunion of sorts for most of the talent in front of, and behind, 'Neram', which was okey-dokey, to say the best. Had no expectations going in, other than the promise of good music and visuals that the trailer promised.

Well, the first viewing kinda blew my mind away, since I never thought that being short on content, from a high level perspective (Infatuated boys love, lose and love again, then lose again, and then almost love again - to put it mildly) could afford so many opportunities for some amazing writing, acting, visuals and scores. Every person in charge of his/her department absolutely excels, and in terms of style, this hearkens back to 'Iyobinte Pusthakam', regardless of the differing mileux and genres of both works. I've always been a proponent of content being king, but this one kinda screams for execution/style over all else, and I've bought into that stream of thought firmly after seeing how well this one has been brought to life.

Among its many strengths, casting is key. With one actor having to evolve over the 3 phases of life that the movie focuses on, Nivin Pauly, and the actors playing his friends, need to look, sound and behave in an age-appropriate way in each of those phases, while being consistent with their age and state of mind within those. And boy do they nail it, with the 3 main leads, and assorted characters around them having their own individual criss-crossing arcs across those phases. Another one of its main strengths are all of the running jokes/gags (one of which is to do with spelling/grammar/structural mistakes in a letter professing teen love, that loops all the way until the end) across each of those phases, that is not left hanging at any time, and one of the main reasons for multiple viewings, where one can marvel at the effort that has been made across this work of art. The background score is one of the strongest ever committed to celluloid, hearkening back to last year's superb 'Ohm Shanthi Ohshaana' (trivia: the helmer on that one, Jude Anthany Joseph, makes a funny cameo in this one) being as strong in its scoring department. Shaan Rahman is not missed, with this one having Rajesh Murugesan doing the honors, as good as he was in Anthony Putheran's earlier 'Neram' (pun fully intended, if you understand the language). Technically speaking, though it might seem minor, this movie integrates CG almost seamlessly, and this generation's film-makers, especially the ones who do not place any weight or value on that aspect, and others, need to take a page out of this movie, and see how they can 'up' their overall game.

Nivin Pauly has always been good, subtly taking over the characters he (literally/figuratively) inhabits in each of his flicks - '1983', 'Ohm Shanthi Ohshaana', 'Oru Vadakkan Selfie', 'Neram' and even 'Ivide', in which, I thought, his character got short shrift.

In my first viewing of this though, I wasn't all gung-ho about all aspects of this flick as I am being now, with my criticisms spanning (my perceived, at the time) lack of new content and how the leads' family lives are kept to background/ignored altogether, even with strong casting on those supporting characters who are (unfairly, as I thought at the time) ignored (example: Renji Panicker, who plays Pauly's dad, who is fantastic in the 2 scenes he's in, but has nothing else to do). I don't feel as strongly about those aspects now, but thought I'd just put them out there.

All in all, this one makes for multiple great viewings, especially among those who consider themselves students of the craft. And yes, great for mainstream audiences as well, which kinda explains its box office, as well as cementing cult status.

PREMAM : A Real Entertainer At All Means !

[mepms · 10/10 · 3 June 2015]

For all those who experienced love in their life this movie will be a nostalgic one. The Old days of School, College days.. Oh My God ! everything !came in to mind as it is. Me and my friends were smiling and cheering from the beginning of the movie. Even the small dialogues or sequences were crafted superbly by Alphonse Sir.

Love this film a lot !

A Real Entertainer in Malayalam !

Nivinetta you're Kola Mass :)

Movie Rating:

Script - 10/10

Artist Performance - 10/10

Direction - 10/10

Technical Side - 10/10

Beautiful

[sahebabdullah · 8/10 · 23 May 2021]

Premam is a delightful film. Nivin Pauly & Sai Pallavi are gorgeous and their chemistry in the movie is so pure. Malare song is love.

A directorial delight!

[dragonite_fire007 · 9/10 · 8 June 2015]

Yes yes Nivin Pauly has acted well but more than that it was the director's vision which gave this movie its heart. The storyline is nothing new - a young carefree lad George falls in love for the first time and many times thereafter and how his outlook of the world changes with each lady love of his life. Alphonse Puthren gave a new life to the script with his impeccable cinematography and detailing. Each and every role is etched perfectly and acted with excellence. The roles played by the support actors as George's best friends tingle your heart because when their friend is heartbroken they cry with him too. After a very long time has a movie come where the emphasis is not on the family drama but on the adopted family that we get as our friends. The background score of the movie is excellent keeping up with the tempo of the movie frames. Though I felt there were a couple of unwanted scenes here and there but whole and whole it was a good entertainer. P.S.- Nivin Pauly looks stunning in that black shirt, mundu and those aviators..!! *sigh*

Malayalam movie made in style

[reshmibalachandran · 9/10 · 24 July 2015]

What a beautiful and stylish movie. When I saw the movie for the first time I throughly enjoyed the movie as a good make but 2nd watch made me realise how precisely the movie is made.

Cinematography is mind blowing . Flowers, birds, plants and more precisely the butterflies are so brilliantly shot that each frame looks catchy.

The music is so engaged, specially the one for the background of character "Malar". ‪Actor Nivin Pauly‬ is a complete charmer, I think I will fall for him again and again. ‪Director Alphonse Puthren‬ must say that you have made sure that the audience have a piece of cake in every frame of the movie. Thank you so much. Awaiting for your next.

Must Watch Love Movie

[nellaisundeep · 10/10 · 7 July 2015]

#Premam My Full Review Premam scores 5 Stars ☺☺☺ Premam Starts Like Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya in the first half During Sai Pallavi's Intro you will realize somewhat like Autograph Movie Part 2 And During the second half lot of time you can feel #Neram Movie, including background music !!! Most of the second half #AlphonsePutharen moves us to the edge of our seat, waiting for Sai Pallavi's scene, her role during #NivinPauly's reception is just awesome (No Words) And to all the #Nazriya Fans who are sad as she might leave the industry, 100% replacement is one and only #MadonnaSebastian .

That too brilliant cinematography by #AnandChandran, the way his camera zooms her is so beautiful.

I just guessed he should be the same cinematographer for #Neram too, Yes as I expected.

After #Tamil #Movie #KaakaMuttai #Premam a MUST WATCH Irrespective of your language PLEASE DON'T MISS IT ☺☺☺ If You ask me a one line review then my review is Director #AlphonsePutharen completes the climax for the Tamil Movie #Moondrampirai directed by #BaluMahendra in 1982 !!!

An average good movie overrated

[dmathi · 6/10 · 3 April 2016]

I don't see Malayalam movies much, most of my friends watched this movie more than 5 times. So, I decided to watch the movie without any expectation at all. After watching the movie I wonder how everyone fall in love with this movie? May be no one fallen in love in their teenage or this movie may be their first love movie. Worth a watch, but it was completely overrated.

This movie just looks like just a combination of two good Tamil movies Autograph(2004) and Attakathi(2012).

The actors, actress done their job well. Music also nice. Screenplay made this movie a big success.

Premam: Refreshing and Entertaining

[jonjomon · 8/10 · 30 June 2015]

Alphonse Puthren proved that he is a bankable director.Casting is almost perfect. Brilliant cinematography.. The movie itself is not short but it's definitely sweet.The humour is light and enjoyable. Some may feel a little bit of drag in the first half, but i can say that the second half is worth the wait. It is a simple movie executed brilliantly. The music is very refreshing and all the songs except the last one is a visual treat.

Pros: Excellent direction and editing(the director himself is the editor). It is beautiful to watch. NiVin Pauly has played his role to perfection(all in performance by him) Good use of humour(Vinay Fort and P.T sir requires special mention, the combo is Epic).Sends you home feeling nostalgic.

Cons: Lengthy- Many unnecessary characters are given screen time- highly addictive B)

Old pickle in new jar

[anupviswanath · 6/10 · 26 October 2015]

I watched the movie after all the hype settled down and DVD was released. I watched it just to know what is so much to hail about , is it worth the hype or just another movie that calls itself new generation.

First of all it is mixture of old seen things in a more trendy new gen way that's all.

Before I start about the movie I must say Alphonse Puthren needs to understand the meaning of being humble, because one movie got hit and he began writing open letter to other directors as though he has done something that no one could achieve.I am saying this because people like Sachin Tendulkar or Abdul Kalam Sir have achieved a lot. Sachin holds the record for most number of record breaking and Abdul Kalam sir has worked with most noted people and has worked for our country. We respect them for their achievements as well as their humbleness.There are many people whom we respect because of their humbleness.He created hype by claiming that he took this movie 5K resolution and no other theatre had this provision and began criticising the Cinema. People who think they know everything are the most ignorant people (because if he knew that no cinema has 5k resolution provision he wouldn't have took it in that way). He needs to understand that movie makers,actors and all associated had their ups and downs, I am not going to lecture about how he has to change or what he should do. Let him decide whether to humiliate himself and belittle himself by trying to show off his ignorance, that's up to him.

The movie has a lot of elements that Malayali audiences have nurtured and loved for decades. A hero who is anti hero and hero at the same time, like we used to love Lalettan in his Devasuram or Aaram Thampuran or Thoovanathumbikal or Mammuka from Kottayam Kunjachan, a lover who is dedicated to his love, friends who always provide shoulder, a dad who is friendly, college ragging, college lecturers and heroines who falls easily for the hero's charm.

I personally think the movie was inspired (even though people wont accept) from several movies like Thoovanthumbikal where Lalettan was sort of anti hero and hero in college, Cherans autograph,Gautam Vasudeva Menon's Vaarnam Aaayiram, friends who provide support to everything like in classmates or any other 80's movie.

I am teaching as guest lecturer in one of the named college in Trivandrum and after the movie became hit some of my colleagues who were teaching were called "malare" because the heroine in the movie is a guest lecturer who falls in love with the heroine, the students intensity of calling them increased and it lead to issue(even though a small one). I personally believe movies do inspire you to do what they show and this is one example of it, but it doesn't necessarily mean that all people do it, if that is so then after thoovanathumbikal got released every brother like character would be pimping out for his younger one or all people who failed in love would be going to prostitutes to avenge them. Nothing like that some people take these as part of movie and nothing more but some take inspiration to do it without thinking it could hurt others.

Is there so much in the movie for the hype between youngsters calling it their movie and other people saying it is degrading the ethical values and moral values??? I personally think this movie should have been left without people bashing over moral values and ethics, that way the hype surrounding around the movie wouldn't have gained momentum, like India did to Indias daughter(they banned it and people began anxious as to what is so much about that documentary)??

Finally the movie has pace till college days then it settles down to more of slow paced movie which has nothing much of an attraction except for the song and macho hero entering again into the arena, the music was good especially the Avalu vendra, the dappankoothu song (before the dance song or last music during credits), aluva puzha and malare. Anyway the movie starts in teens and ends up in middle age. Personally I think Nivin did justice to the role, because his portrayal of character in Ivide was horrible,terrible and pitiable which made several people think how he won State award. Sai pallavi was convincing as Tamil Guest lecturer, Kichu and friend character were notable, Vinay fort's professor character can be seen in many colleges where people don't know how to explain the concept and everything.The scenes do bring in nostalgia and a work that gets OK mark thats all. It is far from being a classic but yes it has got some people's attention that is all it is.

Another example of IMDb Marketing

[George_Thengummoottil · 1/10 · 3 August 2015]

If you have some sense in ur brain. kindly don't watch this movie and waste your time and mood. But if u are a frustrated college student. going after every girl you find around. This movie will be a tutorial for you.

The movie is just about a few boys who fall after every girl they find, from a neighbor , lecturer and so on.. It was quiet boring.

+ The film has a few classic comedy scenes, but not worthy to waste 3 hours to see that 15 minute comedy.

The directors tried their level best to win over Santosh pandit. but could not... Pandit's movie had at least a story.