Age Rating: PG
Language: Malayalam
Malayalam cinema is known for its gripping narratives, and Ponman seems to be another strong contender in the genre. Starring Basil Joseph in an intense and unconventional role, the movie has already created a buzz. But does it live up to the expectations? Let’s dive into the details of this crime drama and see if it’s worth the hype!
Plot Overview: More Than Just a Crime Thriller?
At first glance, Ponman may seem like your typical crime thriller, but it’s much more than that. Basil Joseph plays Ajesh, a man obsessed with following the rules of his unusual job—recovering lost gold and money from debtors. He’s not your conventional hero: no six-pack, no action-hero swag, but an everyday guy with an unusual drive to succeed at what he does.
However, his world turns upside down when he crosses paths with Mariyano (Sajin Gopu), a ruthless and aggressive man who stops at nothing to get what he wants. What follows is a tense cat-and-mouse game that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
And let’s not forget Steffi (Lijomol Jose), whose presence adds emotional weight to the narrative. Will Ajesh outsmart Mariyano, or will he fall victim to the brutal underworld he’s stumbled into?
Basil Joseph Like Never Before: A Performance to Remember!
We’ve seen Basil Joseph in comical roles, but Ponman showcases a whole new side of him. He shifts effortlessly from quirky to dangerously determined, making Ajesh one of the most complex characters in recent Malayalam cinema. His transition from a rule-following worker to a man willing to go to extremes is masterfully portrayed.
Sajin Gopu is another standout performer. His portrayal of Mariyano is so convincing that you’ll love to hate him. He embodies arrogance, violence, and power, making him the perfect villain to Basil Joseph’s unpredictable protagonist.
Lijomol Jose, Anand Manmadhan, and Deepak Parambol also shine in their respective roles, adding depth to the film’s multi-layered narrative.
Screenplay, Direction & Technical Brilliance
Credit goes to GR Indugopan and Justin Mathew for crafting a tight, suspenseful screenplay that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. Ponman isn’t just about crime; it subtly explores societal issues like dowry, making it a thought-provoking watch.
Director Jotish Shankar ensures that every scene has a purpose. His attention to detail, combined with Sanu John Varghese’s cinematography, makes the film visually captivating. The editing by Nidhin Raj Arol keeps the pace tight, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
What Worked:
✔ Basil Joseph’s outstanding performance
✔ Tightly written, engaging screenplay
✔ A nail-biting cat-and-mouse chase
✔ Brilliant cinematography and direction
What Didn’t Work:
❌ Some predictable moments in the second half
❌ More depth could have been given to supporting characters
Final Verdict: Is Ponman Worth Watching?
f you love thrillers with strong performances and unexpected twists, Ponman is a must-watch. Basil Joseph delivers his career-best performance, and the gripping screenplay ensures you’re hooked till the last frame. While it has minor flaws, the overall experience makes up for it.
⭐ Rating: 4.2/5
Would you dare to enter Ajesh’s world? Watch Ponman and find out! 🎥🔥
Stay tuned for more Malayalam movie reviews and updates!