Release Date: 23rd November 2023
Starring: Joju George, Aishwarya Rajesh, Chemban Vinod Jose, Lijomol Jose, Johny Antony
Directed by A.K. Saajan | Produced by Rajesh Damodaran | Music by Anil Johnson
Banner: Appu Pathu Pappu Production House | Rating: 2.50 out of 5
Joju George, a name that resonates with remarkable acclaim in Malayalam cinema, has etched his mark with stellar performances in movies like 'Joseph,' 'Iratta,' and 'Nayattu.' His foray into OTT platforms has not only amplified his popularity within the Malayalam audience but has also garnered a diverse fan base across different language-speaking viewers. One of his notable ventures, "Pulimada," where he takes on the lead role, hit the theatres on October 26 this year and is now available for streaming on 'Netflix.' Let's delve into this intriguing narrative and explore the pivotal role played by Aishwarya Rajesh in this cinematic journey.
The story unfolds against the backdrop of the lush Kerala forest. Vincent (Joju George), a solitary figure, resides in his farmhouse near the forest, juggling his life as a constable at the local police station and a coffee bean cultivator. The solitude in the forest holds a poignant reason – the loss of his father at a tender age, coupled with the challenges of caring for his emotionally distressed mother. The farmhouse, a cherished legacy from his father, becomes Vincent's sanctuary, even in the midst of roaming tigers.
Vincent's attempt to find companionship through marriage takes an unexpected turn as relationships crumble. A night of emotional distress unfolds when a young woman named 'Jessie' leaves him for another man just before their wedding. In the midst of this pain, a serendipitous encounter with 'Emily George' (Aishwarya Rajesh) alters the course of Vincent's life. As their paths cross, the narrative takes a gripping turn, revealing a tale shrouded in mystery and suspense.
Director Sajan crafts the storyline with a focus on a handful of central characters, attempting to infuse intrigue into the narrative. However, it must be said that the plot lacks the compelling elements needed to keep the audience fully engaged. While a couple of twists unfold towards the end, the pacing leaves viewers longing for more.
The film takes its time to introduce Aishwarya Rajesh's character, Emily George, after a considerable duration. Unfortunately, her entry does not significantly elevate the narrative, and she remains an essential yet somewhat underutilized character in Vincent's lonely life.
Despite the narrative shortcomings, the film finds its strength in its picturesque locations. The enchanting forests of Kerala, beautifully captured by Venu's cinematography, stand out as the highlight of "Pulimada." The visual appeal is complemented by the evocative background score composed by Anil Johnson, adding a layer of intensity to the overall cinematic experience.
Directed on a modest budget with a limited cast, "Pulimada" is relatively brief in duration. The film's title, which hints at the presence of a tiger, is symbolic and doesn't demand extravagant production values. The storyline, revolving around love and emotion without much room for action, struggles to establish a deep emotional connect.
In conclusion, Joju George's star power and the film's technical brilliance in terms of cinematography and music might attract cinephiles. However, "Pulimada" falls short of delivering a compelling narrative, leaving viewers craving a more engaging and immersive cinematic experience. As Joju George, known for his versatility, continues to explore diverse roles, one can't help but wonder if there could have been more to unravel in this particular tale.
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