Bharathanatyam Movie Review: A Humorous and Heartfelt Spin on a Classic Trope
Krishnadas Murali’s latest film, Bharathanatyam, takes viewers on a rollercoaster of emotions with its clever twist on the familiar “Mookambika Cinematic Universe” trope, often associated with the legendary actor Nedumudi Venu. Although the movie’s final act dips into cheesy, sentimental territory, its humor—refreshingly restrained—keeps the film enjoyable and engaging.
A Family in Turmoil: The Plot Unfolds
The story centers around Sasi, the eldest son of Bharathan Nair, who is navigating life in a semi-urban middle-class setting. Sasi’s life is a picture of normalcy until his father, Bharathan Nair, suffers a stroke, leading doctors to warn that his days are numbered. On his deathbed, Bharathan Nair drops a bombshell—he has another wife and child. His dying wish is to see them one last time, a revelation that sends shockwaves through Sasi’s family. What follows is a cascade of chaos and comedy as Sasi grapples with this new reality.
Balancing Humor and Heart: A Semi-Urban Comedy Done Right
Bharathanatyam fits neatly into the genre of semi-urban middle-class comedies, a category that has found favor with audiences, as evidenced by the success of films like Falimy and Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hei. The first thirty minutes of the movie set a gentle pace, introducing us to Sasi’s routine life and his interactions with his siblings and mother. The scenes are grounded in reality, with a touch of sentimentality that makes the later twists even more impactful.
When Bharathan Nair reveals his secret, the movie shifts gears, using the resulting family drama as a fertile ground for humor. Krishnadas Murali’s direction ensures that the comedy never feels forced, relying instead on the natural reactions and dynamics within the family to drive the laughs. It’s this nuanced approach that sets Bharathanatyam apart from more formulaic comedies.
Nods to Nostalgia: Revisiting a Classic Trope
The character of Bharathan Nair, with his hidden past, is reminiscent of roles often played by Nedumudi Venu. Krishnadas Murali is clearly aware of the audience’s familiarity with this trope and plays with their expectations in a way that is both respectful and fresh. Rather than crafting an out-and-out comedy, Murali weaves in moments of genuine human connection, such as the tender conversations between family members, adding depth to the humor.
However, the movie isn’t without its flaws. The melodrama in the final scenes feels slightly overdone, and while it elicits a smile, it lacks the punch that could have made the ending truly memorable.
A Standout Cast Brings the Story to Life
Saiju Kurup shines as Sasi, embodying the role of the responsible elder brother with a mix of humor and emotion. His performance is well-suited to the character, allowing him to explore different emotional shades within the same role. Sai Kumar delivers a noteworthy performance as Bharathan Nair, bringing a blend of humor, roughness, and sentimentality that elevates many of the film’s key moments.
The supporting cast also deserves praise. Kalaranjini is hilarious as the angry wife, while Sreeja Ravi impresses with her portrayal of a character speaking in a Kannur accent. Divya M Nair stands out as the elder sister, and Abhiram Radhakrishnan nails his character with perfect comedic timing. Jivin and Jinil bring a youthful charm to the film, with their innocence adding a layer of empathy to the screenplay.
Final Thoughts: A Respectful Nod to the Audience
Bharathanatyam may not be the most innovative film, but it’s a refreshing departure from the formulaic approach seen in many recent comedies. Krishnadas Murali’s respect for his audience shines through in his storytelling, which remains focused on its core theme without resorting to cheap laughs. Even though the emotional crescendo is slightly muted towards the end, the film’s commitment to being distinctive leaves a lasting impression.
In conclusion, Bharathanatyam is a comedy that stays true to its roots, delivering humor with heart and a narrative that resonates. It may not have the emotional highs some might expect, but its uniqueness in approach makes it a standout entry in the genre. This film is worth watching for anyone looking for a blend of humor, nostalgia, and a touch of sentimentality.
