Manjummel Boys is a riveting survival thriller that shines through its simplicity, delivering an engaging cinematic experience that's worth your time. While excessive hype might detract from its straightforward narrative, the movie truly excels within its chosen framework. Personally, I initially hesitated to watch it, battling against a sense of fatigue from 'boys-dominated’ stories saturating the industry lately. So, I approached "Manjummel Boys" with a mix of curiosity and skepticism and yet, the movie defied my expectations, pulling me into its story.
To be honest, in the first half-hour of 'Manjummel Boys,' I felt a
tug of disconnection. As a woman watching a group of friends venture off on a
cross-state journey without a secure financial footing, their ease in securing
travel permissions from parents and their carefree pause in the journey,
seemingly oblivious to safety concerns, felt like scenes from a different
world. Yet, I couldn't help but realize that the movie likely resonates in the
opposite manner with men who have long enjoyed such social privileges. For
them, it could evoke nostalgia for simpler times, perhaps even conjuring
memories of their own carefree adventures. This contrast in perspectives adds
an intriguing layer to the film's appeal.
The impact of these divergent reactions is unmistakably
reflected in the staggering success of "Manjummel Boys." It has
achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Malayalam film to surpass
the 200-crore mark, with a worldwide collection of approximately 235 crores,
all against a modest making budget of 20 crore.
Despite the initial hiccups, the film gradually drew me in,
thanks in large part to the stunning cinematography by Shyju Khalid. His
visuals beautifully captured the journey and its events, while Vivek Harshan's
impeccable editing ensured a tight, crisp runtime essential for the movie's
impact.
Knowing that the film is based on a true story heightened its emotional impact, particularly in the gripping final half-hour. Director Chidambaram skillfully weaves a narrative that transcends mere survival, portraying the power of friendship and solidarity against adversity. The incorporation of Kamal Hassan's classic film "Guna" and the iconic song "Kanmani Anbodu" was a stroke of genius, seamlessly integrated into the narrative, adding depth and emotion to an already powerful story.
And
let's not forget Sushin's score, which tugs at your heartstrings in all the
right ways and captures the essence of each moment. While "Kanmani
Anbodu" received a well-deserved revival through the film, it's
"Thaai Manam" that remains my personal favorite, closely followed by
"Kuthanthram." On a lighter note, I can't help but boast about
mastering the tongue-twisting lyrics of the first paragraph of Kuthanthram, off
late borderline annoying those around me.
Of course, none of this would work without a talented cast,
and "Manjummel Boys" certainly delivers on that front. Soubin and
Sreenath steal the show with their nuanced performances, while the rest of the
ensemble cast holds their own admirably. Look out for the real life “Manjummel
Boys” make a cameo appearance during a tug of war competition.
But perhaps one of the most impactful moments of all comes
after the credits have rolled, when we're treated to pictures of the real-life
Manjummel Boys. It's a powerful reminder that sometimes, truth really is
stranger—and more inspiring—than fiction.
Also, as a side note here is an unpopular opinion, Manjummel
Boys indeed is a compelling narrative of friendship and adventure. However, it
also emphasizes the importance of responsibility and caution during such
journeys. Adventure stories often romanticize the thrill of discovery and the
allure of hidden places, they shouldn't overshadow the genuine risks posed by
nature. Without Kuttan's success, the story could have taken a much darker
turn, echoing the tragic fate of those who fell before Subhash in the
"Devil's Kitchen." It's a poignant reminder that the excitement of
exploration must always be tempered with respect for nature and an
understanding of the potential consequences of our actions. Let's not confuse
bravery with recklessness. Zones marked as dangerous exist for a reason—it's
not about being brave or adventurous to ignore these warnings. So, let's
cherish the spirit of adventure, but let's also approach it with humility and
caution, mindful of the impact our explorations may have on ourselves and the
environments we encounter.
In short, Manjummel Boys is undeniably a must-watch and
stands as one of the finest offerings from Mollywood in 2024. Try and catch the
movie in a theatre near you. Remember to be safe and wear your mask.
P.S. This film plunges into tight spaces and confined
environments that may induce feelings of claustrophobia in sensitive viewers.
While the film's narrative may captivate, its atmospheric intensity could prove
challenging for those prone to claustrophobic reactions and are advised to
exercise caution while watching, as it may induce discomfort or anxiety.
