Ninnishtam Ennishtam

Ninnishtam Ennishtam, a Malayalam-language movie released in 1986, is a heart-warming, comic-drama romance directed by Alleppey Ashraf. The film features the charismatic Mohanlal in the lead role and is supported by a stellar ensemble cast of Priya, Sukumari, and other eminent actors of Indian cinema.

Set in a quaint small town in Kerala, the film revolves around the upbeat and colorful life of the lead character, Sreekuttan, played by the iconic Mohanlal. An orphan with a heart of gold, Sreekuttan represents the free spirit of a small-town boy, beloved by people for his charming personality and jovial nature. He realizes the powerful emotion of his innocent love for a girl named Shalini, portrayed by Priya, under unpredicted circumstances which challenged his everyday routine life.

Shalini, an attractive, good-hearted, and gentle city girl with a sweet temperament, reciprocates heartily to the simple emotional touches of Sreekuttan. Despite their disparate social backgrounds, these characters find a bond that transcends societal norms and conventions. Their nascent love story weaves together a touching narrative that pulls at the viewer's heartstrings.

Adding to the mix of this love saga is a plethora of interesting supporting characters, like Sreekuttan's foster mother, Kuttiyamma, brilliantly portrayed by Sukumari, who brings to life the quintessential matriarch of a typical Kerala household. Also, the talented Sreenivasan finds room in this tale with a pivotal role that upholds the humor-packed screenplay.

Ninnishtam Ennishtam is special for its representation of the socio-cultural milieu of Kerala during the 1980s. Director Alleppey Ashraf's adept storytelling intersects popular culture and social norms of the time. Prajit's cinematography provides an authentic window to the beautiful landscapes and backdrops of Kerala which truly magnifies the movie's visual appeal.

The magic of Ninnishtam Ennishtam goes beyond its narrative and characters - it is a treat for music lovers as well. The film scores high on the music front with some fabulous tracks composed by the renowned Kannur Rajan. His most notable work in the film is the romantic song, "Illimulam Kadukalil", sung by the legendary playback singer K.J. Yesudas. This song is notable for its melodious tune and soulful lyrics penned by Chunakkara Ramankutty that perfectly encapsulates the romance brewing between the lead pair. Other songs like "Minnaminungin Vettam" and "Ninne Cherukunta" are added attractions that uplift the movie's pleasant ambiance.

Mohanlal, with his extraordinary acting skills, completely immerses himself into the character of Sreekuttan, bringing to life his innocence, charm and rustic appeal. His portrayal of a naive, yet endearing lover boy impresses, entertains and leaves an indelible impression on the viewers. Priya perfectly matches Mohanlal's performance, making their chemistry one of the high points of the film.

Sukumari, as the nurturing foster mother, and the other supporting actors contribute to the film's charm by rendering their roles with complete dedication. Among their ranks, Sreenivasan stands out for his comic timing and ability to strike a balance between humor and gravitas.

Overall, Ninnishtam Ennishtam, a blend of romance, comedy, and emotional drama, is an engaging film that leaves a lasting impact with its simple narrative and superior performances. It’s a memorable exploration of innocent love that unfolds in a traditional Kerala backdrop. The film is indeed a delight for moviegoers looking for stories that beautifully capture love in its most innocent and jovial form. This gem from the 1980s Malayalam cinema reaffirms why the period is called the Golden era of Malayalam movies. Not just a film, but Ninnishtam Ennishtam is more of an experience that takes viewers on a journey of emotions; one that they will cherish for a long time to come.