MAHA VEERYAR MOVIE REVIEW CLICK TO RATE THE MOVIE

Is justice equal to all? How effective are laws in getting justice to people who need it? Are people in power using their power for the good of society, and are laws ensuring the same? These are the central themes of the fantasy court drama, Mahaveeryar. Starring Nivin Pauly, Asif Ali, Lal, Shanvi Srivastava, Siddique, Lalu Alex, and Krishna Prasad in pivotal roles, the film is directed by Abrid Shine.

Mahaveeryar opens in the 17th century with a king (Lal) who can’t stop hiccuping and demanding his minister (Asif Ali) to bring a woman as beautiful and pure as tulsi. Meanwhile, in the present, a sage (Nivin Pauly) is accused of stealing a temple idol and is presented to a judge for trial. How the two worlds collide and the battle of justice that ensues form the crux of the film.

The Abrid Shine directorial is rich with fantastical elements and political undertones. However, it also showcases the bitter truths of the current social justice system and society in general. From corruption to the social verdict to a crime, much is covered in the film during its 147-minuteruntime. None of these concepts is conveyed in over-the-top monologues and sequences. Instead, Shine utilizes characters, and their reactions, actions, and dialogues to pass the message loud and clear.

The technical brilliance of Mahaveeryar is to be commended. From the visuals of a “spiritual” experience after consuming a cannabis-like substance to the sound effects of a speeding horse-driven carriage, the film has sequences that pull you in with its sounds and visuals. Adding further to the film's beauty are the movie's costumes and overall aesthetics that Mahaveeryar showcases.

Abrid couldn’t have chosen a better cast for his movie. The reunion between Nivin and Asif added the right flavours to the film, with each essaying their respective roles perfectly. Lal as the selfish and corrupt king, Siddique as the biased and nonchalant judge, Lalu Alex as the just prosecutor, and Krishna Prasad as the defense lawyers do wonders in Mahaveeryar. Shanvi Srivastava also showcases a stellar performance as a character that shines beyond the heroes of the film.

What makes Mahaveeryar unique but also its downside is its complexity. Nothing is as it seems to the eye in this movie; some layers need unravelling to understand the undertones truly.

Mahaveeryar is ultimately a social commentary through the lens of fantasy. With great acting, wonderful visuals, and apt score, the film will pull you in its narrative. But be sure to take your thinking hats with you when you step into the theatres to see this film.