Lechmi

Lechmi is a 2017 Malayalam horror-comedy film directed by Sharrath Sandith and B.N. Shajeer Sha. The film features a cast that includes Maanav, Sethu Lakshmi, and Chriz Deepu in main roles, among others. The movie expertly combines elements of horror, comedy, and drama, leading to a riveting experience for the viewer. Lechmi also illustrates a clear influence of traditional, regional folklore on its story, characters, and situations.

At the center of the movie is a character named Lechmi, played by Maanav. Lechmi, a playful and captivating young girl, is raised alongside a group of street performers, even though she is not one of them. She becomes an integral part of their existence, sharing their joys, sorrows, and experiences. The interactions between her and the performers and their relationship forms the heart of the story.

Maanav’s performance as Lechmi is noteworthy. He effectively portrays the innocence and purity of his character, adding charm and depth to the role. His wide range of emotions and perfect comic timing certainly steals the heart of the audience. Contrasting Maanav's Lechmi is Sethu Lakshmi, whose portrayal as an elderly woman resonates characteristically with her previous roles, expressing wisdom, compassion, and a touch of humor. The remaining cast members, including Chriz Deepu, also offer delightful performances themselves.

The story takes an interesting twist when Lechmi encounters a disturbing situation that shakes her and the world around her. During a festival celebrated by her performer friends, she finds herself drawn into a series of inexplicable and gruesome events. In response to these terrifying incidents, she is enveloped by fear and tries to decipher the mystery unfolding around her.

While Lechmi is primarily a horror-comedy movie, it is not your typical run-of-the-mill genre film. The storyline explores different genres, such as supernatural occurrences and paranormal activity, but achieves its unique blend of humor and chills in an engaging manner. It also adeptly sheds some light on the socio-cultural lives of the marginalized street performers community in Kerala, thereby adding a social dimension to the narrative.

Throughout Lechmi, viewers are treated to beautiful cinematic shots of Kerala's landscape. From picturesque views of verdant valleys to the intricacies of the street performers' lifestyle, the visual appeal of the film is phenomenal. The cinematography captures the rich fabric of Kerala's culture and traditions, effortlessly merging with the narrative.

The soundtrack of the film adds another layer of richness to the narration. The music incorporates traditional beats and modern rhythms, creating an auditory reflection of the film’s blending of supernatural elements with reality. More than just serving as a background score, the music is instrumental in setting the atmosphere, whether it's joyous celebrations or eerie, tense moments.

Moreover, the remarkable screenplay, written by Sudhi Koppa, is another of the film’s assets. It maintains a grip on the audience, ensuring they are on the edge of their seats, hooked on to every scene. The dialogues are sharp and packed with humor, and the situations are crafted to evoke not only laughter but also suspense and surprise.

Lechmi is filled with fantastic visuals, realistic character portrayals, a gripping narrative, and a balanced blend of humor and horror. Its intelligent use of local folklore, combined with its exploration of the socio-cultural life of marginalized communities is a unique and intriguing addition. This film stands as a testimony to the versatility of Malayalam cinema, offering viewers an innovative and entertaining experience unlike any other.

In conclusion, Lechmi is a successful combination of horror, comedy, and drama, presenting a delightful medley of emotions. The power-packed performances, well-crafted characters, engaging narrative, and hauntingly beautiful music give an exciting and thought-provoking insight into the world of marginalised communities, their celebrations, their fears as well as their struggles. It is a must-watch for fans of Malayalam cinema and anyone who appreciates a well-executed innovative narrative. Lastly, Lechmi leaves viewers with a pleasantly bittersweet aftertaste worthy of reminiscence and appreciation.