Aryan

Aryan is a 1988 Indian Malayalam-language action crime film showcasing a gripping narrative explore society's underbelly. Directed by Priyadarshan, the film stars Mohanlal, Ramya Krishnan, and Bob Christo, amongst others. A highlight of the film’s ensemble is the versatile performance from Mohanlal, one of the cherished legends of the Malayalam film industry.

The story revolves around the life of a fair-hearted smuggler, Aryan (played by Mohanlal), embodying a unique blend of bravado, wit, and humanity. Aryan, despite his unlawful profession, is universally loved in his town for his affable disposition and an unconventional moral compass. He provides refuge to the needy and helpless and rebels against any form of injustice. A fine line comes between being a criminal and a savior, and Aryan walks it with unparalleled grace.

Ramya Krishnan plays the female lead, portraying a layered character with considerable depth and complexity. The nuances of her performance cannot be undermined as she inculcates an intense chemistry with Aryan, weaving a strong emotional backbone of the narrative.

Bob Christo, noted for his villainous roles in Indian cinema, brings his unique flair to Aryan. He perfectly captures the antagonistic push against Aryan's ways, often clashing with him but also serving as a mirror reflecting the crime world's grim reality.

Aryan is a movie that is not just about intense action sequences or an emotional roller coaster, it's a story of moral ambiguity, and how a character can be both - a criminal and a hero. Brilliantly setting the stage with a captivating plot and emotionally charged performances, the director weaves a tale of intrigue, friendship, love, and redemption. Yet, Aryan is not a conventional good-versus-evil tale. It navigates through the murky realities of life where good and evil often blur their lines.

The film's backdrop explores the underworld lifestyle, the layers of crime, and social dynamics, beautifully expanding on Kerala's scenic beauty. Intricate details painted into the visuals of the film, whether it's the rustic charm of the local marketplace or the breathtaking seaside scenes, add an extra edge to the narrative. As the story unfolds, it crosses borders stepping into international terrains, offering visual richness.

Aryan's thrilling plot is also accentuated by its powerful and thought-provoking dialogues, which build intensity and provoke reflection on societal morality. The script does a flawless job of maintaining a balance of the emotional and action-packed undertones throughout the narrative. The characters are beautifully crafted, deeply layered, reflecting the myriad hues of human nature.

The movie's soundtrack composed by Reghu Kumar adds charm to the narrative, providing an auditory treat to the audiences. The songs are melodic, reflective, and blend seamlessly into the situations presented in the movie. The music beautifully accompanies the storyline, weaving an emotional narrative that carries the audience through this intense journey.

Costume design and visuals enhance each character's persona, showing contrasts between law-abiding citizens and those involved in underworld activities. The wardrobe choice contributes to the film's overall aesthetic while creating a strong visual impact.

Furthermore, Aryan's cinematography deserves a special mention as it magnificently captures both the natural beauty of Kerala and the underbelly's raw, gritty reality of the criminal world. The film also uses lighting to set the mood throughout the movie, enhancing the whole cinematic experience.

'Aryan' is an enthralling ride through the realms of crime, courage, and complex human emotions. With its brilliant storyline, exceptional performances, and a captivating soundtrack, it's a movie that stays with you long after the credits have rolled. Through the character of 'Aryan,' audiences get an intricate representation of an anti-hero, an outlaw with a conscience, bringing a fresh perspective to the traditionally portrayed heroes in Malayalam cinema. Packed with both action and emotion, Aryan is a must-watch for the fans of the Malayalam film industry and the lovers of cinema at large.