The latest Malayalam movie, "Anuraga Karikkin Vellam" (AKV), revolves around the theme of love and family bonding. While Mollywood industry has seen a number of movies dealing with the same theme, what makes "AKV" unique is the natural performance of the lead characters.
The movie, starring Asif Ali, Biju Menon, Rajisha Vijayan and Asha Sharath, delves into the ups and downs experienced by a middle-class family and the love life of each characters with a realistic touch. Reghu (Biju) is a police officer who took up the profession for his lost love Anuradha. He lives with his wife Suma (Asha) and two kids Abhilash (Asif) and Anu. Rajisha plays Asif's love interest Elizabeth aka Eli, who always wants to spend time with him. How these characters link together with the central theme — love — is the storyline of "AKV."
Performance
The actors in "Anuraga Karikkin Vellam" are the ideal choice for each role, as they have delivered realistic performances. Rajisha steals the show for portraying a girl in love, whose world revolves around her man. Her debut performance as a loving and sensitive girl has been warmly welcomed by movie-goers. Asha Sharath impresses the audience for portraying a typical housewife and proves she is the best actress the industry has found from the small-screen. She represents the majority of women in the society who do their best to take care of their family without expecting anything in return, but only longing for a little consideration from their spouse.
Biju Menon's transformation from an adamant father, a not-so-cool husband and policeman to a loving and caring personality shows his command over acting. Asif represents the younger generation with the character Abhi. It appears to have been a cakewalk for him, since he has come up with a spontaneous performance. The child artiste who played Abhi's sister Anu, Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Sudheer Karamana and Irshad also entertained viewers with their natural performances.
Direction and scripting
The realistic approach taken by Khalid Rahman for his debut directorial venture is the plus point of "Anuraga Karikkin Vellam." Many among the audience would be able to relate to the story. Naveen Bhaskar's script has woven together the right amount of comedy and romance for the family audience. The not-so-expected climax of the film makes it totally different from the other love stories viewers are familiar with.
Technical aspects
All the songs of "AKV," composed by Prashant Pillai, are sure to remain in the minds of the audience. The romantic song "Poy Maranjo," sung by Preeti Pillai and Arum Kamath, and Vaikom Vijayalakshmi's "Neeyo Njano" are worth special mention. Jimshi Khalid's cinematography is impressive and has captured well the lives of people in Kochi.
Conclusion
One should consider watching "Anuraga Karikkin Vellam" for the flawless acting of the lead actors. The movie has got a fine flow without any unwanted scene. "AKV" gives a rough guide on how couples should and should not be in their life, urging them to give space to each other. It also hints that lost love can be sweet at times. "AKV" is one of the best family entertainers released in Malayalam recently. Watch it.
IBTimes India rating: 3.5
