Take Off

Take Off is a critically acclaimed 2017 Malayalam-language drama thriller that primarily focusses on contemporary issues faced by Indian citizens who are working abroad. Directed by noted filmmaker Mahesh Narayanan, this gripping film features stalwart performers like the National Award-winning actress Parvathy Thiruvothu, the versatile Fahadh Faasil, and the charming Kunchacko Boban in pivotal roles. The film is inspired by real-life events, more specifically revolving around the 2014 rescue operation conducted by the Indian government to evacuate its citizens stuck in the war zone during the Iraqi Civil War.

To give justice to such a serious plot, the director has paid a great amount of attention to detail. Blending realism and cinematic elements masterfully, Take Off explores the life of its characters, their aspirations, fears, and the situations they find themselves in, in a brutally authentic way.

We have Parvathy Thiruvothu playing the role of Sameera, a strong and resilient nurse employed in Kerala. Battling societal pressures and financial constraints, she chooses to work in Iraq despite being aware of the volatile situations there. This character forms the emotional crux of the story and Parvathy's intense performance adds depth to the character, making her a compelling protagonist. Fahadh Faasil portrays Manoj Abraham, an Indian ambassador who plays an instrumental role in aiding the evacuation operation. Portraying his character with subtlety and élan, Fahadh is an absolute treat to watch. Kunchacko Boban, on the other hand, effectively portrays Sameera's husband, Shaheed, who too embodies a set of emotions and challenges.

The plot effectively sets in the socio-political context whilst focusing on the personal storyline of the character Sameera. The commercial elements of fiction in the plot are minimal, allowing the movie to focus on the plight, anguish, fear and victories of its characters. The narrative adopts a non-linear storytelling style, using flashbacks to provide context and depth to the characters. This structure aids the tension and apprehension that is consistently felt throughout, keeping the audience at the edge of their seats.

The hardships and sacrifices of the countless nurses who are forced to take up employment in foreign lands due to economic pressures are poignantly portrayed in the movie. The film thus stands as a tribute to the courage and bravery of such individuals who risk their lives to ensure a better future for their loved ones back home.

The cinematography by Sanu Varghese is exemplary and does justice to the visual requirement of the movie. His clever and artistic use of the camera provides for a truly immersive experience, capturing the raw reality of war-torn Iraq as well as the contrasting peace of Kerala. The background score by Gopi Sundar and Shaan Rahman enhances the narrative even further, effectively accentuating the emotional scenes and tension-filled moments.

The film further explores themes of camaraderie, humanity in despair, selflessness, survival instinct, motherhood, and hope amidst utter chaos. It throws light on the strenuous diplomatic procedures involved in rescuing citizens from war-prone zones and the pragmatic approach of authorities handling such crisis situations.

In conclusion, Take Off is a well-crafted and powerfully narrated story that strikes a chord with the audience. It effectively uses the medium of cinema to tell the harrowing story of forgotten heroes and to drive social and political commentary. With top-notch performances from its star cast, brilliant direction from Mahesh Narayanan, phenomenal cinematography, and a background score that adds to the story in all the correct ways, Take Off is a compelling watch for anyone in search of an intense drama based on real events. Its well-researched perspective on the international job market for nurses, coupled with its resounding statement on humanity, makes it a must-watch for every cinephile.