Azhakiya Ravanan

Azhakiya Ravanan, directed by Kamal and scripted by Sreenivasan, is a 1996 Indian Malayalam film that seamlessly melds drama, romance, music, comedy, and the cut-throat world of the movie industry. Set against the scenic backdrop of Kerala, the movie weaves a compelling narrative that captures your heart and pricks your conscience.

The film brings together three powerhouse talents of Malayalam cinema – Megastar Mammootty, actor-scriptwriter Sreenivasan and the versatile Bhanupriya – in a captivating tale of power, ambition, and redemption. Their on-screen chemistry and combined acting prowess make the film a treat to watch.

Mammootty plays the role of Shankar Das, a cruel and arrogant businessman with an insatiable thirst for power and wealth. However, fleeing from his harsh past, Das dreams of becoming a respected figure in society through the world of cinema. Mammootty, as always, proves his versatility by impeccably depicting a character of many shades - an arrogant businessman seeking social status, yet nursing emotional wounds deep inside. His nuanced portrayal of Shankar Das, a man caught between ambition and his haunted past, adds depth to the story.

Sreenivasan essays the role of Ambi, an honest, struggling playwright with a boundless passion for theatre and films. The plight of Ambi reflects the struggles of countless artists who grapple with their dreams in the face of stark realities. Sreenivasan delivers a stellar performance, far removed from his signature comic roles, bringing a delicate balance of pathos and humour to the film.

Bhanupriya brings to life the character of Malu, a headstrong and independent woman who has braved the storms with resilience. Guided by an unyielding sense of pride and self-respect, she stands at the crossroads of tradition and dreams.

Azhakiya Ravanan is not a mere tale about the making of a film within a film. It is about how the passion for cinema permeates human lives, often with dire consequences. It brings forth the dark realities behind the glitter of celluloid, the power dynamics, the exploitation, the staggering hypocrisy, and the sacrifices beneath the starry façade.

Simultaneously, Azhakiya Ravanan is also a love story, where love is not all roses and moonlight but entwined with ambition, power and the fear of societal acceptance. The romance between the two leads, played by Mammootty and Bhanupriya, unfolds gently, bearing the authenticity of a real relationship between two matured adults drawn to each other amidst the whirl of destiny and dream fulfilment.

The film’s cinematography is a significant highlight, capturing the natural beauty and scenic locales of Kerala in such a way that it etches an everlasting visual memory, captivating every viewer's heart. The film's enchanting music, directed by Vidyasagar, works wonders in the narrative of the movie. The soulful songs of Azhakiya Ravanan, like "Vennila Chandana Kinnam" and "Pranayamanithooval" are evergreen classics in Malayalam Cinema.

The film interlaces its stunning visuals with a hard-hitting social commentary. It discusses themes such as power dynamics, ambition, the downside of the film industry, and societal expectations. Azhakiya Ravanan paints a real portrait of society - a web of dreams and disappointments, power and helplessness, love and betrayal.

The film's strength lies in its rich narrative structure and powerhouse performances by the stellar cast. Kamal's deft direction and Sreenivasan's intuitive screenplay are instrumental in narrating a multifaceted story with many layers to it.

In conclusion, Azhakiya Ravanan is more than a cinematic spectacle. It is a socio-cultural commentary that reflects the harsh realities of the world of glamour and holds a mirror to society and its deep-seated prejudices. It is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates thought-provoking cinema layered with unforgettable performances, haunting music and a compelling narrative.