Angamaly Diaries

Angamaly Diaries is a 2017 Indian Malayalam-language crime drama film. Directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, the film stars relative newcomer Antony Varghese alongside an ensemble cast in various roles. The emerging actors include Reshma Rajan, Binny Rinky Benjamin, and a host of others mostly debuting with this film. Its refreshing authenticity is richly brought to life by a captivating screenplay penned by noted actor and writer, Chemban Vinod Jose.

Set in Angamaly, a small town in the southern Indian state of Kerala, the movie fleshes out the rugged charm of this place and its inhabitants with intriguing finesse. A place where dishes like pork and toddy (a local alcoholic drink) are items of indulgence, bar fights are a common occurrence and local rivalries are intense. Within this vibrant culture and unique locale, the movie skilfully unfolds its narrative.

The film centers around Vincent Pepe, portrayed by Antony Varghese, whose life goal is to be a powerful leader in his hometown, Angamaly. The youthful enthusiasm and ambitions of Pepe and his friends are depicted with infectious energy and nuance. The film offers a realistic portrayal of their life, full of mishaps, love, rivalry and brotherhood.

The audience is introduced to Pepe smitten with his love interest, Lichi - played by Reshma Rajan. Their unconventional love story is brought to life effortlessly, adding another intricate layer to the narrative. The transformation from innocent romance to a knotted love triangle keeps the audience intrigued until the end.

Meanwhile, the changing equations among local gangs in Angamaly form a significant part of the storyline, leading to several unexpected turns that speak of betrayal, fierce rivalry and the unquenchable thirst for power. The young boys wishing to reign supreme in their town often find themselves crossing paths with ruthless members of older gangs, leading to an intense feud.

Binny Rinky Benjamin, among others, adds to the tapestry of vibrant characters, each contributing a unique flavor to the film. The movie’s strength lies in its multitude of characters, each strikingly authentic, adding great depth to the narrative. You might feel like you are gaining a first-hand experience of Angamaly, and the lives of the people there.

Music and food also play a significant role in Angamaly Diaries. The musical score, composed by Prashant Pillai, makes an indispensable contribution to the film, enhancing various emotions and situations. Sticking true to its roots, the film pays significant attention to local food, especially pork; you may literally hear the crunch of bones and the sizzle of frying, that’s how integral food is to the feature.

A standout scene from the film is the 11-minute-long single shot sequence towards the climax. This particular scene has been highly praised for Lijo Jose Pellissery’s incredible direction, Girish Gangadharan's remarkable cinematography, and Shameer Muhammed's seamless editing; it takes the audience on a whirlwind tour through the town's crowded festival, packed with a multitude of characters.

Angamaly Diaries is not just a film about rival gangs, crime, and brotherhood. It is also about the journey of a young man, Vincent Pepe, navigating life while maintaining to stick true to his roots. It's a slice-of-life drama packed with local color, robust flavors, powerful music, and breathtaking visuals. The movie widens the landscape of Indian cinema, and boldly illustrates the vibrant and gritty life of Angamaly with a charm that is raw and uniquely its own.

In conclusion, Angamaly Diaries, with its riveting narrative, energetic performances, and unflinching authenticity, is a cinematic gem in Malayalam cinema that goes beyond the stereotypical storyline. Despite its central theme focusing on local gang rivalries, the film lets the town and its vibrant culture take center stage, making it a memorable experience for viewers. It’s a hard-hitting, captivating, and visually stunning portrayal of a unique place and its people.