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Mammootty's 'Pramani' is worth watching[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]Released on: March 26, 2010
A neatly narrated political subject within the format of a mainstream
entertainer – that's the best one can say about
Pramani, a
Mammootty movie that hit the silver screen on March 26.
Directed and scripted by B Unnikrishnan, the movie shows the
contemporary political and social issues that prevent overall
development of villages, especially in Kerala.
The protagonist, Viswanathan Panicker (Mammootty), is president of the
Thazhe Keezhpadam Gram Panchayat in Kerala. He is always interested in
accumulating wealth through corruption. The villagers call Panicker
'America' for his special interest in getting involved in others'
issues, and taking away all the credit and money.
Panicker knows every rule and regulation, and believes that 'one must
have a thorough knowledge about law and jurisdiction to break it!' His
cousin Somashekharan (Siddique) always helps Panicker in his
'governance'.
Although Castro Vareed (Janardhanan), the president of the nearby
Panchayat, tries to bring an end to the 'American' rule, Panicker wins
all the battles with political and muscle power.
However, at a certain point in his life, Panicker turns away from sin
and tries to mend his ways. He then has to face a real tough time from
all corners.
The story may sound oft-repeated – a satire on the kind of Panchayat
politics that we often know from media and watch in films – but the way
it has been narrated and presented ensures that
Pramani is
worth watching.
It must also be mentioned that the script has done wonders for the
film. Unnikrishnan has tried his best to put in elements that will woo
the family audiences, as summer vacations starts this weekend.
Certainly, Mammootty steals the show. Though there was not much scope
for the character, Mammootty has been very loyal to the role. As usual,
his dialogue, presentation and screen presence are just perfect.
Tamil actor Prabhu has done a small but ineluctable role of Panicker's
close friend and godfather in politics, Varkey. The others who deserve
mention are Siddique, Janardhanan and Lakshmi – they have ensured that
their respective characters help the movie to keep its tempo.
Interestingly, unlike the usual south Indian films, there is no romance
in this film between the male and female lead characters. The heroine
Janaki (Sneha) has been portrayed as the Panchayat Secretary who helps
Panicker to mend his ways.
Overall, barring the usual climax and some weak comedy scenes,
Unnikrishnan has done a good job as the director, eliciting excellent
performances out of all artistes.
Though a normal story,
Pramani is technically sound in all ways.
Cinematography (by Shamdat), editing (Manoj) and art direction (by
Joseph Nellikkal) have all been handled well. The songs, written by
Gireesh Puthencherry and composed by M Jayachandran, are average.
Pramani is definitely a simple movie, but shot without losing
its objectivity.
Critic: Shyam PVRating: 3/5
