What Is The Story About?
Ariyippu is set in the pandemic-stricken times in Noida and follows a couple hailing from Kerala struggling to nurture their dream of migrating out of the country for a better life. Besides the trouble of getting their visa approved, things get harder for them when a scandalous and manipulated video clip gets circulated amongst the co-workers of the factory where the couple work. What follows is an unexpected unveil of human’s most unreasonable demonic sides and conscience.
Performances?
Kunchacko Boban plays Hareesh and gives arguably one of the best performances of his career in Ariyippu. The actor has had a spectacular run this year with films like Pada and Nna Thaan Case Kodu. However, he displays a more nuanced performance in Ariyippu.
Despite a stunning Kunchacko Boban performance, Ariyippu belongs to Divya Prabha. She looks and acts the part and is a revelation of sorts in the film. A voice of conscience, she is also the most likeable character in the film.
Analysis?
Mahesh Narayanan‘s ‘Ariyippu’ is unarguably the most deviant film in his directorial career so far. One could see no shadow of his earlier works like Take Off, Malik or even C U Soon in Ariyippu. And thathat is a testament of the fact that Mahesh has unexplored islands in him as a story teller, writer and director. It is also a startling example of the director’s versatility.
Ariyippu follows a struggling couple’s unlikely tryst with destiny. Both Hareesh and Rashmi work at a glove factory and aspire to move out of the country hoping for better work and life opportunities. However, covid-19 comes down harshly at them and their dreams are partially shattered. Things get even more tough for the duo when a scandalous video surfaces amongst their co-workers, thereby questioning Rashmi’s integrity and individuality.
The duo now have to individually tackle corruption in their own factories, while fighting for their honour and integrity pertaining to the fabricated video. What begins off as a routine indie piece of cinema that takes an empathetic look at aspiring migrant workers hailing from Southern part of India in the Northern-most States of India, Ariyippu takes a drastic turn even before it breaches its half-time.
A drama surrounding struggle of survival of migrants quickly transitions into a synthesis of human conscience, relationships and trust. Both Kunchacko Boban and Divya Prabha are exceptionally believable in their respective roles. While Kunchacko is an exasperating partner who deserves to be loathed, Divya’s Rashmi is a malleable, yet stubborn wife who values humanity and ethics over survival.
Ariyippu tackles the dilemma of having to choose between survival and conscience well. The writing also show-cases how lack of trust unleashes unexpected emotional, social and marital imbalances in a couple. However, there are times when the writing fumbles and sensitivity takes a reverse trajectory like when it comes to treating domestic violence with seriousness. Despite being merely 107 minutes long, the film feels over-stretched. This becomes more prevalent as the narrative refuses to prioritise its intentions. To be precise, Ariyippu is a slow burn drama driven by exceptional performances. If slow burn humane dramas move you, give it a try.
Other Artists?
Danish Husain plays Suresh, the owner of the company the couple works for. The actor’s theatre diligence is visible in the minimal scenes he has. Unfortunately he doesn’t get to do much. None of the other actors have a prominent role besides Kunchacko Boban and Divya Prabha.
Music And Other Departments?
Sushin Shyam’s music is moody, atmospheric and fits the film like a glove. Sanu Varghese’ cinematography work is also one of its biggest assets. The lighting and tracking shots provides the right tinge of melancholy and silence the narrative intends to convey.
Highlights?
Divya Prabha’s Performance
Kunchacko Boban’s Performance
Core Philosophy
Cinematography & Music
Drawbacks?
Screenplay
Duration
Did I like it?
Yes
Do I recommend it?
Yes. But Only if Slow-Burner Cinema is Your kind.
Ariyippu Movie Review by Binged Bureau
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