Paleri Manikyam | Malayalam | Critique

Kerala got a communist regime. Three things happen that fortunate/unfortunate morning in a quintessential village of Paleri. A kid was born. A young man died by drowning in river. A girl committed suicide. Her name was Manikyam. The first two events went unnoticed but the last one being mysterious, became a part of folk-lore. The kid grows up as a detective cum writer Haridas and since childhood suffered a trauma of sharing a moment with such tragic incidents. At the age of 52, he decides to probe the event. The lead role of Haridas is being played by Mammootty.

Paler Manikyam is an amazing movie. Driven by the motivation of finding the truth of death of Paleri, Haridas starts with material evidence present. He relies on documentary evidence and the hints in folklore to establish a strong doubt that Manikyam was probably brutally raped and killed by a local landlord Ahmed Haji (also played by Mammootty) who is Haridas’ illegitimate father. But there is no strong proof against him. With the help of people who were there when this crime happened, his doubt got more push. However, he was wrong. Ahmed Haji was a criminal of many charges but this one. However, with power and money he escaped the way to prison. If not him, then who has killed Manikyam. In last 15 minutes the suspense unfolds… and that too in an epic fashion.

Three things drive this movie: exceptional performance by Mammooty, Shweta Menon and Mythili, beauty of Paleri of 50s and strong script. Based on a novel by the same name, Paleri Manikyam comes alive in beautiful narration of Mammootty well aided by amazing cinematography and strong plot. Though in the first half a lot is made public and one might wonder how they will tell story for another hour, you will be pleasantly surprised by the second half. Ranjith set a new standard in direction. Bravo.

This movie has a strong impact on viewers and you might have a major hangover for next few days. I am still not over it.

My Rating: 4.5/5

Written By; Sujoy Ghosh