Ullozhukku - Precise and Powerful

 

Movie: Ullozhukku
Rating: 3.5/5

Cast:  Urvashi, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Prashant Murali, Arjun Radhakrishnan and others

Director: Christo Tomy
Produced By: Ronnie Screwala, Honey Trehan, and Abhishek Chaubey

Release Date: 21st June 2024

Story:

Anju, after enduring years of an unsatisfying marriage while caring for her ailing husband, Thomaskutty, discovers that she is expecting a child shortly before his demise. Leelamma, her mother-in-law, attempts to find solace in this unexpected news. However, as hidden truths come to light, both women are compelled to confront their own selves and the people they hold dear, all while facing the prolonged burial of Thomas due to the devastating floods.

Performances:

Parvathy's portrayal of Anju is a masterclass in subtlety as she deftly navigates the complex emotions of a woman in a difficult situation. Urvashi's performance as Leelamma is equally impressive, as she brings depth and nuance to a character grappling with her own demons. The ensemble, comprised of Prashant Murali, Arjun Radhakrishnan, Alencier Ley Lopez, and Jaya Kurup, all delivered commendable performances.

What worked for the film:

Christo Tomy, the first-time filmmaker, is not only the director but also the writer of the movie. He skillfully immerses his main characters in intricate situations, forcing them to confront impossible choices. Although the notion of 'what others would think' may appear cliché, Christo deftly combines it with crucial situations to craft a gripping and fulfilling drama, enhanced by the outstanding performances of Parvathy and Urvashi. The most captivating aspect of the film lies in the emotional interplay and the evolving dynamics between the two main characters, Anju and Leelamma. Their journey is fraught with intense inner turmoil, yet they manage to summon the strength to support one another, creating a tension that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

The director skillfully navigates complex scenarios with great finesse, such as parents pressuring their children into marrying someone without considering the consequences. This is why the regular sentiment moments between Anju and her parents come out very well. Sushin Syam's music skillfully immerses the listeners in the perpetual rain-drenched ambiance of the Kuttanadu village.

What did not work for the film:

The narrative, while compelling, relies on several convenient developments—Leelamma’s abrupt change of heart and a crucial character's irrational demand for land—and unusually brash dialogue to drive toward its foretold climax. 

Ullozhukku Review and Verdict:

Ullozhukku resonates emotionally for most of the parts, thanks to Christo Tomy's compelling directorial debut and the outstanding performances by Parvathy and Urvashi. Although the storytelling has some minor flaws, they are overshadowed by the abovementioned positives.