Sapthamashree Thaskaraha

Sapthamashree Thaskaraha, a title suggesting seven noble thieves, invites you into a thrilling world of crime, plans, exploits, and unexpected comradeship. This Malayalam heist comedy film from 2014, directed by Anil Radhakrishnan Menon, boasts an ensemble cast that includes some of the most talented actors from the Malayalam cinema: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Asif Ali, Nedumudi Venu along with Chemban Vinod Jose, Neeraj Madhav, Sudheer Karamana, and Salaam Bukhari.

The narrative of Sapthamashree Thaskaraha begins with the introduction of seven distinct men, unacquainted with each other, sentenced for terms in prison due to various crimes they've committed. There's Krishnanunni (Prithviraj Sukumaran), a clever thief with an intriguing backstory; Shahab (Asif Ali), an adorable con-man; Salam (Salim Kumar), a rustic man with a simple dream; Narayankutty (Neeraj Madhav), a proficient computer hacker; and others with their unique traits and histories.

Over the span of their time in the prison, a bond of friendship gradually develops amongst these seven men, and they share their stories with each other, stories of betrayal, love, and most importantly, their particular reasons for ending up in prison. They find in each other a mutual understanding, and plan for a heist that promises each a chance of redemption.

Beyond the prison bars, is the whole wide world, bustling with opportunities and obstacles alike, governed by people of diverse dispositions and intentions. There's Pious Mathew (Joy Mathew), a wealthy businessman with a reputation that veils his murky deeds; and a noble old man, Narayanankutty (Nedumudi Venu), who would invest in anything to preserve the goodness of society. The theatre of action set against the enchanting backdrops of Kerala—the lush green countryside, sleepy little towns, and the bustling city, adds its unique zest to the story.

As the narrative unfolds, the seven convicts prepare for their big act: a grand heist that will change their destiny, and quite possibly, the destiny of others involved. The brilliance and charm of the film lies in its non-linear storytelling that combines suspense, comedy, and elements of human drama seamlessly. It portrays the robberies, not merely as acts of defiance against the law, but as methods of deliverance for the characters involved.

Menon’s tight scriptwriting, the riveting background score, and well-crafted visuals make Sapthamashree Thaskaraha a riveting cinematic experience. His attention to character development is commendable; each member of the seven-starring squad is etched to perfection and carries a narrative of their own. The ensemble cast helps bring these characters to life, each performer shining in their respective roles.

Prithviraj Sukumaran, as Krishnanunni, carries an aura of wit and charm throughout, while Asif Ali with his comic-timing steals the show. Nedumudi Venu benevolently glows as the pivotal character around whom the story’s central conflict revolves. The other members of the squad including Salim Kumar, Neeraj Madhav, Sudheer Karamana, and Salaam Bukhari play their parts with great zeal, further enriching the narrative texture of the film.

The blend of comedy, drama, suspense, and the actions of the characters, make Sapthamashree Thaskaraha an engaging piece of cinema. Each scene is crafted intricately, and every incident adds to the intrigue of the plot. There are several notable scenes in which the mental and physical prowess of the characters are highlighted, making the audience root for them, despite their criminal intentions.

Despite being a crime comedy, Sapthamashree Thaskaraha doesn’t shy away from exploring the human dimensions of its characters and presents a narrative in which the audience can find relatable emotions and thoughtful insights. It is a heist film with a heart that the viewers engage with not just for the thrill of the crime, but also for the connect they feel with its characters.

Thus, Sapthamashree Thaskaraha is a must-watch for those who enjoy intelligent heist movies, seeking intriguing plotlines, memorable performances, and an impactful cinematic experience. The blend of comedy, suspense, and human drama, painted against the beautiful canvas of Kerala, will keep you hooked till the very end.