Aavanazhi

Aavanazhi is a 1986 Indian Malayalam-language action drama film directed by I. V. Sasi and written by T. Damodaran. The indomitable Mammootty shines in the lead role, supported by an impressive cast comprising Geetha, Sukumaran, Seema, Captain Raju, and Janardhanan, among others. The story explores themes of revenge, love, and societal norms with equal intensity, marshalling a unique blend of action, drama and powerful dialogues.

This movie tracks the life of Balram (Mammootty), a conscientious and valiant police inspector noted for his commitment towards duty. His reverence for justice and orderliness are traits that run through the film, emphasised time and again by his fearless attitude towards danger and crime. In 'Aavanazhi,' Balram's tale intertwines with the complex socio-political tapestry of the region, laying bare the systemic corruption and the politics of power that often subverts justice.

The narrative is cleverly contrived around Balram's past and present, revealing his journey through events that immensely shaped his character and stipulated his course of life. The dynamic character of Balram, with a robust sense of duty, becomes an archetype of true justice that exists beyond the simple binary of right and wrong.

The antagonist in the film is personal, systemic, and ideological - an insidious mix of power mongers and corrupt officialdom. They make his pursuit of justice more difficult, leading to a battle that is more than just the good versus the evil. It's a deeper struggle against a system that shelters the guilty and punishes the innocent.

Geetha plays the female lead, showcasing a spirited performance as a woman caught in the chaos of societal prejudices. Her journey presents another side of the coin, spotlighting gender-based discrimination in society and her pursuit of justice under impossible circumstances. Other characters, brought to life by the incredible cast, enrich the film with varied perspectives and diverse ambitions, each driven by their personal motivation and circumstance.

I. V. Sasi demonstrates his directorial prowess with finesse in 'Aavanazhi.' Sasi ensures that the film is not limited to its revenge-centric narrative, extending it beyond to address several societal issues. He doesn't shy away from making bold statements about the aberrations of justice, corruption, and the struggles of the marginalised. This movie is as much a political commentary as it is a personal journey of struggle and vindication for Balram.

The dialogues in this film, penned T. Damodaran, are both impactful and thought-provoking, ringing with authenticity and passion. They pack a punch, adding a layer of depth to the powerful performances by the cast. The energetic dialogues of Balram, delivered flawlessly by Mammootty, are still recalled by his fans for their profound impact.

The film also scores high in terms of its technical elements. The background score and songs, composed by Shyam, enrich the dramatic narrative, often amplifying the emotional quotient. The cinematography admirably captures the splintered social landscape while the editing keeps the pacing crisp.

In conclusion, Aavanazhi stands out among the Malayalam films of the ’80s because of its unique treatment of a revenge story woven around socio-political issues. The brilliant acting performances, exceptional script, hard-hitting dialogues, and skilful direction by I.V Sasi have made it an unforgettable film, which would undoubtedly impress any admirer of intense drama and well-crafted narratives. This film, indeed, is a testament to the solid storytelling and sophisticated film-making that Malayalam cinema is known for.