Jawan of Vellimala

Jawan of Vellimala is a 2012 Malayalam movie, which beautifully blends elements of comedy, thriller, drama and social commentary. Directed by Anoop Kannan, this film showcases the remarkable performances of some of the biggest names in Malayalam cinema – Mammootty, Sreenivasan, Asif Ali, and Mamta Mohandas.

The film is set in the scenic backdrop of Vellimala, a village in the picturesque high-ranges of Kerala, known for its captivating dam site. Expertly using the dam as a potent symbol, the narration harnesses its multi-layered metaphorical significance in shaping the course of the story. Vellimala Dam isn't just a character, but the pivot around which the entire plot revolves.

The film introduces us to James aka Gopi (Mammootty), an ex-army man, who is now working as the emergency and security in-charge at Vellimala Dam. He's a hero in the eyes of the local villagers, who believe that almost superhuman Gopi has single-handedly managed to protect their dam and village. Beneath this facade of bravery, however, James, like the Vellimala Dam, has an intriguing backstory and well-guarded secrets.

Asif Ali plays the role of Anoop Krishnan, a young government employee, who gets transferred to Vellimala. Sreenivasan portrays the character of Varghese, a profit-driven contractor and Mamta Mohandas essay the role of Yashodha, a Nurse. The intersecting story arcs of these diverse characters come together to form an intense plot.

The film takes a turn when Varghese, who is entrusted to carry out a repair project at the dam, stumbles upon some irregularities associated with the project. This brings a twist in the story where Varghese, Anoop, and Yashodha find themselves embedded in a complex situation, with Gopi landing as a possible saviour.

As the story evolves, it highlights several social issues, including government corruption, bureaucracy, and the hardships faced by the villagers. The film raises pertinent questions about integrity, sacrifice, and the idea of heroism.

Director Anoop Kannan has markedly blended the vibrancy of Malayalam cinema's storytelling style with the urgency of social issues. Despite the drama, the film does not lose its touch with light-hearted comedy and elements of romance, making it an enjoyable watch.

Mammootty, in his role as Gopi, delivers an outstanding performance, portraying the emotional depths of his character with exceptional rigor. His character's evolution throughout the story is genuinely remarkable. Asif Ali's performance as a naive government official displays his flair for portraying subtle emotions effortlessly. On the other hand, Sreenivasan's portrayal of his character offers a satirical touch. Mamta Mohandas effectively breathes life into the character of a strong-willed nurse.

The cinematography of the movie deserves a special mention for capturing the enchanting beauty of Vellimala. From the captivating view of the dam to the panoramic sight of the rolling hills and a small, lush green village by the hillside, the movie carries picturesque frames that add to the visual richness. The contribution of the background score in accentuating the entire ambiance of the scenes cannot be overlooked either.

In a nutshell, Jawan of Vellimala is a well-rounded movie, striking a perfect balance between entertainment and meaningful cinema. It is a cinematic treat that offers all, a gripping storyline, excellent performances, top-notch cinematography, and soul-stirring music. This film is sure to resonate with those who appreciate cinema that goes beyond mere storytelling to represent broader themes and issues. It is a must-watch for those who enjoy a mix of drama, thrill, and humour, underlined by a profound social context.