Nizhal

Nizhal, a Malayalam-language psychological thriller, is a captivating film that offers an intense blend of suspense, drama, and mystery. The movie, released in 2021, is directed by noteworthy editor-turned-filmmaker Appu N. Bhattathiri and produced by Anto Joseph, making it a high-profile project. This film is a thrilling watch and a gripping experience for the audience.

The movie has brought together two of the top actors from South India: the talented and versatile Kunchacko Boban, whose unique choice of roles over the years has won over audiences; and Nayanthara, a big name in the South Indian film industry who's known for her bold and headline-making roles. Nizhal is a thought-provoking film that allows these actors to showcase their abilities and bring unique, intricate characters to life.

Kunchacko Boban plays the lead role of a first session court judge named John Baby, who is dealing with the traumatic aftermath of an accident. Boban delivers a compelling performance, seamlessly portraying the complexities of his character, a man grappling with vulnerability, enigma, and determination.

Nayanthara plays the role of a young single mother named Sharmila, a role that she beautifully holds with subtlety and depth. The nuance that Nayanthara brings to her character forms an essential aspect of the movie, making her performance one of the standout aspects of the film.

Moreover, an extraordinary child artist named Izin Hash co-stars in Nizhal, playing a crucial role that connects the main characters in an unexpected way. He plays an innocent young boy with a fertile imagination who tells tales that are inexplicably connected to real-life events.

Nizhal also boasts a strong supporting cast. Remya Suresh, Saiju Kurup, Divya Prabha, and Lal shine in crucial roles, adding depth and substance to the storyline. Equally important are the multiple behind-the-screen artists who have crafted the movie with their creative input and expertise.

Director Bhattathiri skillfully brings to life a complex, layered narrative without losing the audience's interest. He sensitively explored the intimate psychological impacts of trauma while skillfully blending in elements of mystery and suspense, making for a captivating watch for the audience.

The beautifully composed background score by Sooraj S Kurup enhances the movie’s atmosphere, oscillating between eerie and soothing perfectly as the story demands, acting as another character in the film. Deepak D Menon's cinematography captures the dark and light moments with equal prowess, considerable attention given to the visual imagery that effectively enhances the storyline. The crisp editing of Arunlal S.P keeps the film edgy and flowing.

Nizhal is not just a conventional psychological thriller but reaches into the philosophical aspects of the issues it presents. The film brilliantly connects imagination, reality, and emotional complexities, creating an engaging narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while also pushing them to think and reflect. The screenplay written by S. Sanjeev impressively maintains the balance between these components throughout.

Set against the backdrop of the beautiful culture and locales of Kerala, the film has a distinctive regional flavor, which does not lessen its universal appeal. The essence of Kerala's rich tradition and its scenic beauty add a unique touch to the scenes and situations, elevating the overall visual and aesthetic appeal of the film.

With its intense storyline backed by a stellar cast, breathtaking visuals, and masterful direction, Nizhal is a memorable film that offers an engaging and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Despite its thriller tag, Nizhal goes beyond the genre conventions and delves into a deeper exploration of the human psyche, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.

The movie is a testament to the growing evolution of the Malayalam film industry, which continues to create innovative, engaging, and layered narratives that captivate the global audience. Nizhal is a must-watch film for every fan of the thriller genre and quality cinema. It's a film that dares to question, provoke thought, and invoke deep emotions in the viewers, ensuring a satisfying cinemagoing experience. Despite the theme being different from the mainstream, the film has a specific charm, which comes from the neat presentation and convincing performances of the leads.

In conclusion, Nizhal is an intriguing cinematic exploration of the human mind, filled with suspense, and offers a fresh perspective on the psychological thriller genre. It’s a fantastic combination of solid acting, effective storytelling, and aesthetically pleasing visuals that keeps the viewers engaged from beginning to end.