Oppam

Oppam, a 2016 Indian Malayalam-language crime thriller film, is a unique cinematic experience that effortlessly draws viewers into a complex and thrilling journey. The film is spearheaded by the award-winning veteran actor Mohanlal, whose resilient and impressive performance is the film's backbone. Directed by Priyadarshan, Oppam's narrative combines elements of suspense, drama and emotion, and is interspersed with gripping chase sequences that create a distinctive cinematic language of its own.

Mohanlal plays Jayaraman, a visually impaired man who works as an elevator operator in a luxurious apartment complex. While Jayaraman lacks the ability to see, he compensates for his vision loss with his other senses, particularly his heightened sense of smell, sound, and touch. Formidably intelligent and wonderfully intuitive, Jayaraman's life takes a turn when he becomes a prominent witness in a serious crime that happens in the building.

The film sees the entry of Samuthirakani as Vasudevan, a tough and unforgiving cop who is urgent and meticulous in solving the crime. Vasudevan explores the crime's nuances while constantly encountering obstacles that stand in the way of the truth. Anusree, who plays Ganga, Jayaraman's love interest, delivers an endearing performance depicting the quieter, more tender moments in the film. Her chemistry with Mohanlal is a treat to watch, and she beautifully portrays the struggles, dreams, and aspirations of her character.

Oppam's plot further thickens when Vasudevan and Jayaraman's paths cross, commencing a game of cat and mouse. The story intricately weaves these characters into a taut narrative. The screenplay is meticulously crafted and successfully maintains the suspense and intrigue throughout, ensuring that audiences are on the edge of their seats. With a plot that is ingeniously layered, the film presents an original take on the classic murder mystery genre.

Not only does Oppam deliver on suspense and whit-knuckle thrills, but it also effectively tells a human story. It explores the protagonist's vulnerability and resilience, painting a sensitive portrayal of a visually impaired person. The narrative eloquently showcases the human spirit's triumph over adversity, and Mohanlal's breathtaking performance leaves a lasting impact.

Another standout element of Oppam is the film's meticulously designed aural and visual elements. The cinematography adeptly uses light and dark to enhance the emotional tension and anxious uncertainty of each scene, while the evocative background score by Ron Ethan Yohaan further heightens the drama. The film's editing is crisp and ensures a breezy runtime, despite the complexities of the plot.

Equally impressive is the film's production design, which effectively turns the apartment complex into a labyrinth of danger and suspense, thus becoming a character in itself. From the beautifully decorated interiors to the eerily gloomy exteriors, the setting of Oppam is as intricate and thrilling as its plot. The stunning visuals and gripping ambiance of the film only bolster the viewing experience.

Oppam also takes a minute to breathe in between the tense cat-and-mouse chase sequences and crime-solving scenes. The movie beautifully explores the relationships among its characters, showcasing emotive angles that resonate with the audience, making it more than just a crime thriller.

Despite the film’s intense and thrilling narrative, Oppam doesn't shy away from injecting a dose of humor, mainly through the interactions between its characters. This lighter touch brings depth and delicacy to the otherwise suspense-laden narrative, rendering the film a unique balance that is very rare to find.

Oppam is a visually stunning, skillfully narrated, and finely acted masterpiece that masterfully blends elements of suspense, emotion, comedy, and drama. With its rich narrative, engaging performances, and effective direction, Oppam is more than just a thriller. It is a riveting exploration of humanity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth. It encourages viewers to delve into the world of the unseen, celebrating the spirit of overcoming personal hurdles while being embroiled in an unplanned, intense situation. From Mohanlal's masterful performance to the genius direction by Priyadarshan, Oppam is an unforgettable cinematic journey.