Thottappan

Thottappan is an Indian Malayalam-language film released in 2019, directed by Shanavas K Bavakutty, making it his second directorial venture after the critically acclaimed Kismath. Thottappan boasts a stellar cast, including award-winning actor Vinayakan, the talented Priyamvada Krishnan, and the ever reliable Manoj K. Jayan, among others.

Thottappan is based on the novel of the same name by Francis Noronha, adapted into a screenplay by PS Rafeeque. The story, set in rural Kerala, begins with Ithak (played by Vinayakan) and his close friend Johnappan (played by Dileesh Pothan). The two share deep bond, despite their contrasting lifestyles; Ithak is a wanderer with no family ties, while Johnappan is rooted in his family life, with a daughter and a wife he loves dearly.

The title Thottappan, which translates to 'godfather' in Malayalam, offers a hint to the movie's central theme. When Johnappan meets a tragedy, Ithak takes up the responsibility of caring for his friend's young daughter, Sarah (Priyamvada Krishnan). The dynamic between Ithak and Sarah forms the crux of the movie, adding a heart-tugging humane element to the narrative.

As the film progresses, the audience is introduced to a host of other characters, each of whom adds a unique layer to the multifaceted narrative. We follow Ithak and Sarah as they navigate the complexities of life, society, and evolving relationships. This father-daughter relationship, although not bound by blood, becomes the tender, beating heart of the film, and it is lived out splendidly on screen by the two lead actors.

Vinayakan, who has long been recognized for his acting prowess, is in brilliant form as Ithak. He is very much the bedrock of the film, portraying a wide range of emotions with profound sensitivity. His performance ensures that Ithak, as a character, finds a firm place in the viewer's heart. Priyamvada Krishnan, too, brings an impressive maturity to her role as Sarah, making their unconventional father-daughter bond believable and emotionally moving.

Through his direction, Bavakutty succeeds in painting a vivid picture of rural Keralan societies with all their idiosyncrasies, contrasts, and conflicts. His portrayal of religion, particularly Christianity, and its relevance to everyday life is nuanced and insightful, adding further depth to the storyline.

One of the highlights of Thottappan is the cinematography by Suresh Rajan that manages to capture the lush, rustic charm of Kerala and the lives of its people in a realistic and visually appealing manner. The soothing background score by Leela L Girikkuttan and the soulful songs composed by Justin Varghese further enhance the film's aesthetic appeal, reflecting the undercurrents of emotion at various stages of the narrative.

There are several elements that make Thottappan captivating. While it tells a deeply emotional story of unusual kinship, it also introduces a striking commentary on the socio-economic disparities present in society. Bavakutty cleverly juxtaposes the simple, unassuming life in the village with the ferocity of the urban underworld, encapsulating the stark contrast between them.

In summary, Thottappan is an emotionally charged drama with deeply nuanced characters and a profound exploration of relationships, societal structures, and life's unpredictability. Supported by a strong script, brilliant acting, thoughtful direction, and impressive technical crafts, Thottappan offers a cinematic experience that sinks deep into the viewer's heart, making them ponder long after the credits roll. This critically acclaimed film surely adds another feather to the cap of Malayalam cinema, known for its excellence in content-driven, realistic storytelling.