Mohavalayam

Released in 2016, Mohavalayam is an intriguing and emotionally captivating Indian drama with a gripping narrative. Directed by T.V Chandran, the film features a profound ensemble cast including Mythili, Joy Mathew, Shine Tom Chacko, and Renji Panicker. The movie's dialogues are scribed by famous writer Anoop Menon. The richness of the plot along with the depth of the characters presents an alluring image of the complex human condition, bringing out the story's various themes delicately.

The film's storyline largely sheds light on the plight of Indian immigrants in the Gulf, drawing upon the narrative with kindness, empathy, and raw honesty. Mohavalayam primarily follows the life of a Malayali community in Sharjah, portraying the hopes, dreams, struggles, and disappointments of the individuals within this community as they try to make ends meet, far away from their homeland. The Arabic term "Mohavalayam" translates to "cemetery," a metaphor that brings forth a poignant correlation with the characters' circumstances in the movie.

T.V Chandran masterfully portrays this theme through various characters in Mohavalayam. The film's central character, played by Joy Mathew, is of an elderly man who refuses to leave the city, reluctant to return to his homeland despite the inevitable complications and difficulties he encounters. Meanwhile, Mythili plays a nurse constantly struggling between her compassionate duty towards her patients and the harsh realities that make her life challenging.

Shine Tom Chacko introduces a different aspect of the narrative. He is a young hustler, trying to seek his fortune and survive in the harsh terrains of the city. His character implies the many ways in which the city can shape an individual's life. The characters in the film are carefully constructed, each running their own race against time, against society, and more importantly, against life. The characters' stories intertwine, painting a poignant picture of life, grief, desperation, and undying hope.

Microsoft's Cinematography uses specific details and warm colors to elaborate on the narrative, the cityscape of Sharjah imprinted with the struggles and ambitions of its migrant inhabitants. The muted backdrop of the city's skyline juxtaposed with vibrant, colorful moments of celebration and unity within the community provides contrast in the visual narrative. The combination of the city’s tall, intimidating buildings and the character's humble living conditions makes for powerful and realistic imagery.

The music composed by Bijibal is both soul-stirring and heartwarming, feeling like an additional dialogue that helps to further the story. Each song is performed with great precision and emotion, thereby contributing to the poignant feel of the movie. Moreover, the background score adds another layer of intensity to the whole cinematic experience.

The strength of Mohavalayam lies in the heart-wrenching performances by the cast and the potentially piercing storytelling by director T.V Chandran. Chandran's unique perspective, coupled with a powerful screenplay, creates a captivating and thought-provoking movie. It is both a social commentary on the conditions of immigrant workers and a poignant tale of survival.

The film’s overall narrative structure masterfully intertwines human emotions, making Mohavalayam not just a movie but a heartfelt storytelling experience. Seamlessly mixing realism with elements of drama, Chandran beautifully shines the light on the strength and vulnerability of human beings living through difficult circumstances. Despite the grim outlook that the name suggests, Mohavalayam is a life-affirming drama that resonates with hope amid despair.

With its remarkable performances, well-constructed plot, and engaging storytelling, Mohavalayam successfully portrays the dilemma of expatriates living in the Gulf, making it a mus-watch for those who appreciate nuanced cinema and real-life stories.