China Town – Malayalam Movie Review

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The watch word is “Addi poli”, as that is what is suggested by the movie in all ways. The 3-in one combo of Mohanlal, Jayaram and Dileep seem to have been the sole objective of making this movie. But, objectively looking at it, it is a complete, in and out, “Lal” etan( as he is fondly termed) movie.

The one thing, that preys on, in this movie, is the magic of Mohanlal. He does bring to the movie a stamp or rather a mark and people are mesmerized. Everytime in every frame of his in the movie, applause is evident, on account of his charisma as an actor.

This actor, with an absolute penchant for acting and who has played such wonderful roles in movies is not used well, in this complete commercial outer.

The movie plays along, as if on a well knit path, for the actors. The story line is predictable and not different at all from many others. Mathukutty (Mohanlal), Zackaria (Jayaram) and Binoy (Dileep) are the sons of ‘best bud’ fathers. The three fathers are killed amongst gang strife, wherein one other friend in the shape of Vincent Gomas (Captain Raju) escapes and builds his turf, in the form of a casino named jackpot in China Town, Goa. He invites the sons over and hands over the casino to them; only then do they realize the underlying story of the past. Then, it is the turn of the sons, to take revenge on the mafia, who threatens, their very existence. The romantic angles of the lead stars are played full on, in to the movie, like standard fare.

Kavya Madhavan in her role as Roseamma, is not given much scope to display her histrionics; has not been amply used and seems to be a very poor choice of role for this very talented and pretty actress.

Suraj Venjaramoodu who plays the leader of one of the under world mafia groups and his portrayal of helping the lead stars later, provides much comic relief. In fact, he does carry a lot of the ‘comic role’ mantle firmly on his shoulders right from the time he appears on screen to the last scene. Though, the scene with the Sumo wrestler (supposedly a buyer of the casino), hardly, creates a diversion.

Aside, the movie is funny in the first half and loses its lure in the second half. Also Lal etan’s expressions in the first half are full of hilarity and make us aware of why he is such a great actor, although it is really not required.

The climax is solely predictable and nothing can shake the trio of stars.

Sadly, even a first rate actor like Jayaram has nothing of substance, to contribute to the movie. Dileep just plays along as a sidekick, with a character, which really requires no mention; what with his womanizing ways just landing him into trouble.

The music is nice and one song in particular “Arike ninnalum” is melodious. Jassie Gift has added a real jazzy effect to all the songs.

The cinematography is nothing worth mentioning, though, one does see a lot of Goa; there is nothing spectacular to write home about.

What one can expect, from the movie, is just this; a lot of laughs and a whole lot of kicks. And if you are a “Lal etan” fan, his expressions and antics will definitely make you love the flick.

Cast & Crew:

Director: Rafi Mecartin
Banner : Aashirvad Cinemas
Producer: Antony Perumbavoor
Written by: Rafi Mecartin
Starring: Mohanlal, Jayaram, Dileep, Pradeep Rawat, Kavya Madhavan, Suraj Venjaramoodu Poonam Bajwa, Dipasha
Music : Jassie Gift
Cinematographer: Azhagappan
Editor: Don Max