Driving Licence

Driving Licence is a 2019 Indian Malayalam-language film that resonates with every audience member, either as a driving licence holder or a film star fan or both. Directed by Jean-Paul Lal, also known as Lal Jr., and written by Sachy, the movie features Prithviraj Sukumaran, a superstar of modern Malayalam cinema, alongside Sohan Seenulal and Vijayaraghavan in prominent roles.

The crux of Driving Licence revolves around the tangled yet engaging rivalry between a passionate film superstar Hareendran, played brilliantly by Prithviraj Sukumaran, and a humble motor vehicle inspector Kuruvilla, played by Suraj Venjaramoodu. The storyline captures the essence of what happens when the paths of a huge film carrying a large fan base star and an ordinary government service employee collide over a minor issue that grows unexpectedly into a major conflict.

Prithviraj Sukumaran's character Hareendran is depicted as a rich, affluent superstar with a significant mass appeal. On the other hand, Suraj's character Kuruvilla is just a simple motor vehicle inspector who's a great fan of the superstar. Hareendran's pursuit of a driving licence through Kuruvilla sets in motion a chain of events that forms the plot's foundation. The narrative beautifully illustrates how a minor miscommunication can lead to major repercussions for both the characters involved.

The film succeeds admirably in blending and showcasing different genres: drama, comedy, and thriller elements. It consistently straddles these genres, maintaining the seriousness of the conflict while injecting adequate humor, making it a thoroughly entertaining experience. However, the film doesn't shy away from delving into and reflecting upon relevant societal issues, such as the nature and scope of celebrity culture, the role of media in fanning conflicts, and the power dynamics between a movie star and a government official. This integration of light-hearted entertainment with thoughtful commentary is what sets Driving Licence apart.

One of the film's most significant strengths lies in its remarkable performances. Prithviraj Sukumaran, consistently amongst the most bankable stars in Malayalam cinema, showcases his acting prowess through his portrayal of superstar Hareendran. He effectively depicts the charismatic yet vulnerable sides of his character. In contrast, Suraj Venjaramoodu, an accomplished character actor, brilliantly portrays the down-to-earth motor vehicle inspector Kuruvilla, generating both empathy and amusement.

Supporting performances by Sohan Seenulal, Vijayaraghavan, and other cast members maintain the story's pace, enriching the narrative and adding depth to the primary conflict. Deepti Sati and Mia George, who play the wives of the male protagonists, add subtle layers of complexity and emotional depth to the narrative.

Technical aspects of the movie, including Alex J. Pulickal's perceptive cinematography, Ratheesh Raj's deft editing, and Yakzan Gary Pereira and Neha Nair's engaging music, also deserve a special mention. These elements add an additional sheen to the movie, visually narrating the tale of two distinct social classes and their conflicts.

The narrative is infused with multiple twists and turns, yet the movie avoids over-the-top melodrama. Due to its stellar characterization and performances, viewers found themselves rooting for both the characters at different points in the movie, highlighting the narrative's depth.

In conclusion, Driving Licence is a compelling drama that offers an immersive cinematic experience. It delves into prevalent societal issues while maintaining a steady stream of humor and suspense. Its engaging narrative, strong performances, and underlying commentary on contemporary society make it a movie worth watching.