Dr. Biju tackles topics of fascism, societal indifference, human casualties, and relocation in his somber political drama film Adrishya Jalakangal.
Gist of the Story
The movie is set against the setting of an Utopian society in which the populace lacks agency over their lives, government instruments rule society, and resistance is not tolerated.
| Directed by | Dr. Biju |
|---|---|
| Written by | Dr. Biju |
| Produced by | Naveen Yerneni Y Ravi Shankar Tovino Thomas Radhika Lavu |
| Starring | Tovino Thomas Nimisha Sajayan Indrans |
| Cinematography | Yedhu Radhakrishnan |
| Edited by | Davis Manuel |
| Music by | Ricky Kej |
| Production companies | Mythri Movie Makers Tovino Thomas Productions Ellanar Films |
Detailed Plot
The beginning of Adrishya Jalakangal shows cops removing homeless individuals from the streets and locking them away. It is evident that the government anticipates hostilities. The anonymous persona played by Tovino Thomas appears. He was taken from the streets by police and is now being held at a mental health facility. But after being freed, he returns to his former residence—the shelter. He enjoys electronics, and in his improvised home near a railroad station, an abandoned train carriage, he has electrical equipment. Upon his arrival back at the rail carriage, he discovers Nimisha Sajayan, a sex prostitute, seeking refuge in the coach across from him. In the movie, she is also a nameless figure. Tovino converses with the dead in the film, which is another important element. He also works as an assistant in a morgue in the area. It was only after he was confined to the psychiatric institution, he says, that the dead began communicating with him. He hears from the deceased about the consequences of war on the general populace. As the movie goes on, the characters played by Tovino and Nimisha grow to love one another despite their initial animosity. Moreover, they take on the role of guardians for two kids who lose their grandpa. What happens next is the crux of the movie.
Artistes’ Performances
Playing the lonely protagonist who lives in a railroad coach at an abandoned train station, Tovino Thomas gives one of his greatest performances to date. As always, Nimisha Sajayan excels in her role as the anonymous resident of a nearby train carriage. Her assertive personality perfectly counterbalances Tovino’s shyness.
Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, creating a captivating dynamic that keeps the audience engaged throughout the film. The juxtaposition of their contrasting personalities adds depth and complexity to the storyline, making it a truly memorable cinematic experience.
Direction / Technical Side
In Dr. Biju’s Adrishya Jalakangal, a group of individuals without rights and authority in society are depicted, even as the government and its apparatus get ready for a possible battle. In a strange way, the movie tackles themes such as fascism, social apathy, human casualties, and displacement. Although talks of conflict are common, information regarding the particular circumstances that sparked these talks is kept secret. Street demonstrations are used to replace the visual narrative’s use of guns and machines with images of an approaching conflict.
Yedhu Radhakrishnan’s cinematography accentuates the desolation we experience, and the camera portrays their loneliness. Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej’s soundtrack perfectly complements the tone of the movie. It’s difficult to see this political drama film. The film’s thought-provoking storyline delves into the complexities of power and corruption, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. Its compelling performances by the talented cast further contribute to the overall intensity of the movie. Without a doubt, Adrishya Jalakangal is an art-house project.
Verdict;
Adrishya Jalakangal is a serious political drama film by Dr. Biju that explores themes of fascism, social apathy, human casualties, and displacement. The film is a testament to the power and corruption within society that are rooted. This film is only for Serious Art Film Lovers, not everyone’s cup of tea!