Naduvazhikal

Naduvazhikal, a captivating Malayalam movie released in 1989, is an action-packed thriller and family drama. This classic movie is one of the biggest milestones in the career of one of the legendary Indian actors, Mohanlal who successfully portrayed the lead character, Arjun. Directed by Joshy and written by renowned scriptwriter, Dennis Joseph, Naduvazhikal unquestionably stands out in the annals of south Indian cinema.

The storyline is set in the backdrop of a rural town named Kottayam, exquisitely captured and magnificently represented in the film, depicting the traditions, cultures, and lifestyle of south India. The plot unravels the life of a young, dynamic and wealthy man Arjun, played by Mohanlal, who is the only son of a well-respected family in Kerala. His father Raghavan Nambiar, a role skillfully showcased by Madhu, is a renowned businessman and social worker in their town. However, underneath the surface mockery of peace, an invisible border divides the town into two groups, the progressives and the traditionalists.

Mohanlal, as Arjun, is pragmatic, sensible, and loved by his father and the townspeople alike. His life takes an expected turn when he becomes embroiled in the town's ongoing tensions. Through terrific storytelling and compelling performances, the film explores his dealing with conflicts, making tough choices, and ultimately becoming the fabric that keeps the town united.

Thilakan, another stalwart of the Malayalam cinema, effortlessly slips into the role of strong-willed Ummachan, a local feudal lord and an integral part of the traditionalist group. He is cunning, tactical, and doesn't step back from using unscrupulous means to achieve his objectives.

The chemistry between the protagonists, Mohanlal and Thilakan, elevates the film to another level. Their characters are distinct yet intertwined, providing many moments of intense drama, brilliant dialogues, and mass scenes that amplify the movie's allure. The face-off scenes between them are the highpoints of the movie.

With a gripping script and raw portrayal of characters with interesting backstories, the film gives an in-depth view of the societal dynamics in a typical Indian town. The dialogues are whip-smart, sharp, and are bound to invoke emotions. The movie stands out for its screenplay, showcasing the excellent direction and stupendous performances from the lead and supporting actors.

Another crucial character is Parvathy, played by the evergreen actress Parvathy, who becomes the turning point in the protagonist's journey. With her strong will and stubborn personality, she changes the way Arjun perceives life and challenges, changing the course of the story and creating fascinating intertwines with it. The female lead adds a human touch to the action-driven plot and beautifully portrays the power of love and humanity in a man's life.

The film subtly addresses social issues like feudalism, inequality, and societal pressures, provoking viewers to rethink prevailing societal norms and the consequences of unchecked powers of patriarchal lords. It is a perfect blend of reality and fiction that was unheard of during that era.

Naduvazhikal's music, composed by Shyam, is another captivating factor of the movie. The enchanting background score and melodious songs enhance the movie's charm and successfully blends with the storyline, maintaining the tempo of the film.

In conclusion, Naduvazhikal presents a tour de force performance from Mohanal, capturing the essence of a dynamic young man facing extraordinary circumstances. Backed by a powerful script, exceptional performances, a gripping narrative, and compelling music, the film manages to enthral and entertain simultaneously. For lovers of classic Indian cinema, Naduvazhikal's enduring themes and timeless performances make it a must-watch.