Malik

Malik is an engaging and complicated testament to Malayalam cinema. Released in July 2021, this political crime drama revolves around the life of its protagonist, Sulaiman Malik played by the versatile Fahadh Faasil. He shares the screen with Nimisha Sajayan, Vinay Forrt, and a cadre of other seasoned talents. Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, the film is a riveting exploration of love, betrayal, and political unrest set within the politically charged coastal region of Kerala, India. Malik's intricate narrative pushes the boundaries of Indian cinema, highlighting socio-political issues while crafting an immersive, realistic world for its viewers.

Without divulging any crucial details, Fahadh Faasil's character Sulaiman Malik returns to his hometown after spending a considerable length of time abroad. He is considered a protector and a provider for his coastal community, constantly battling the formidable forces of political corruption, religious bigotry, and systemic exploitation. However, Malik weaves an intricate narrative that is far removed from a simple portrayal of good versus evil. A deeply layered character, Malik's actions instigate a series of events leading to consequences that shape the fate of not only himself but a whole community.

Nimisha Sajayan, who plays Malik's romantic interest, delivers a compelling performance as Roselin, a strong-willed woman whose life is also moulded by the turbulent political landscape. Her story arc is skillfully intertwined with Malik's journey, adding to the layered complexity of the narrative. Vinay Forrt complements the star cast with his role as a power-hungry politician, further enriching the tapestry of characters and their roles in the unfolding drama.

Mahesh Narayanan's direction and scriptwriting throw a searing light on the volatile politics of the region, offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of corruption, communal tension, and the struggle for power that scars the local landscape. What sets Malik apart is its narrative style. The film unfolds nonlinearly, chipping away at different times in the protagonist's life, revealing a rich and complicated character whose actions and choices are deeply impacted by his surroundings.

The cinematography by Sanu John Varughese is another strength of the movie. The camera work effortlessly maintains the overall tone of the film, elevating the emotional intensity during the peak moments of the narrative. The lavish photographic depiction of the Kerala coast, intertwined with the ruthlessness of the region's socio-political landscape, offers a stark contrast that leaves a profound impact.

The movie uses visuals and dialogues to a significant effect, managing to capture the essence of the region's culture, attitudes, and lifestyle. Notable among the technical aspects is the sharply edited and seamlessly transitioned flashback technique used to convey the narrative. Sound designer Vishnu Govind and Sreesankar's substantial work compliments the narrative, making the viewing experience truly immersive.

The soundtrack, scored by Sushin Shyam, creates an atmosphere that mirrors the dense plot and pathos of the tale. Each song and background score enhances the viewers' emotional connection to the characters and their journey. Furthermore, the performances of all actors, whether in lead roles or supporting ones, are nuanced and deeply committed, thus adding depth to the narrative's complexity.

Running for nearly two and a half hours, Malik presents a detailed exploration of a community under siege and the emergence of an unlikely hero. Malik is provocative, thought-provoking, and a must-see film that delivers a captivating cinematic experience. It is not just another crime drama about gang-wars and political turmoil; it's a testament of Malayalam Cinema's dedication to social realism and storytelling excellence. Even though the movie is specific to the region it represents, the themes it explores are universal, making it a potentially impactful watch for audience worldwide.

Through this film, Fahadh Faasil, who is primarily known for his unconventional movie choices, has once again proven his mettle. Combined with the director's vision, the brilliant cast, and the technical crew's excellence, Malik becomes a movie that engages you on multiple levels, pushing viewers to think, question and potentially, understand the complexity of people's choices amidst socio-political unrest.