Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Review

Dinjith Ayyathan’s Kishkindha Kandam is a captivating mystery drama that intricately weaves together themes of memory, loss, and hidden secrets. Featuring standout performances from Asif Ali, Aparna Balamurali, and Vijayaraghavan, this film goes beyond traditional thriller conventions, creating a narrative that is gripping yet layered with deep emotional resonance. The movie’s ability to balance a tightly wound plot with thoughtful character development sets it apart in its genre.

Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Review

Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Plot Summary:

Kishkindha Kandam revolves around the life of Appu Pillai (Vijayaraghavan), a former Army officer whose strict routines and distant demeanor create tension within his family. His youngest son, Ajaychandran (Asif Ali), and Ajay’s new wife, Aparna (Aparna Balamurali), live in the same household, dealing with the aftermath of tragedies. Three years prior, Ajayan’s brother went missing, and Ajayan’s first wife passed away due to cancer a year later.

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The story kicks off when a missing pistol belonging to Pillai becomes a matter of concern, raising suspicions in their locality, which is close to a reserve forest once rife with Naxalite activity. As Ajayan and Aparna try to investigate the mystery of the gun and Pillai’s odd behavior, they discover that Pillai is suffering from memory loss, which he conceals by writing everything down. However, this raises larger questions about what Pillai may have intentionally forgotten. As the secrets unfold, Ajayan and Aparna embark on a journey that will take them deeper into the complexities of memory and the past.

Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Cast:

Asif Ali as Ajaychandran (Ajayan)
Aparna Balamurali as Aparna
Vijayaraghavan as Appu Pillai
Jagadish in a supporting role
Ashokan in a supporting role

Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Review:

Kishkindha Kandam is not a conventional thriller. It doesn’t rely on fast-paced twists or action but rather takes its time unraveling the complexities of the characters and their relationships. Director Dinjith Ayyathan and cinematographer Bahul Ramesh craft a story that works on multiple levels, blending suspense with familial drama and a sense of impending doom.

The plot draws parallels with films like Christopher Nolan’s Memento and Martin Scorsese’s Shutter Island, but it stands on its own through its unique cultural context and its careful handling of the theme of memory loss. As the story delves deeper, the audience finds themselves questioning what is real and what has been forgotten — not just by Pillai but by the entire family.

What Works:

Character-Driven Narrative: The film’s strength lies in its character development. The relationship dynamics, especially between Ajayan, Aparna, and Pillai, are carefully explored.
Cinematography: Bahul Ramesh’s work behind the camera beautifully captures the shifting mood of the film, creating a contrast between the open landscape and the claustrophobic secrets hidden within the characters’ minds.
Performances: Vijayaraghavan delivers a stellar performance as a man struggling with memory loss. Asif Ali’s portrayal of Ajayan, a man burdened by family secrets, is restrained yet powerful. Aparna Balamurali adds a subtle, grounded energy to the narrative as the curious and intuitive Aparna.
Sound and Score: Mujeeb Majeed’s background score complements the film’s slow-burn atmosphere, enhancing the tension without overwhelming the scenes.

What Doesn’t Work:

Pacing: While the deliberate pace works for the most part, some viewers may find the film’s slow unraveling frustrating, especially if they expect more conventional thriller elements.
Ambiguity: The film leaves a few threads unresolved, which, while adding to the mystery, may leave some audiences craving more closure.

Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Cast Performances:

Vijayaraghavan as Pillai is exceptional, embodying the struggles of a man whose memory is deteriorating. His performance anchors the film, making his character’s journey both heartbreaking and suspenseful.
Asif Ali shines as Ajayan, portraying a man who is conflicted by his father’s past and his present responsibilities. His transformation as the plot thickens is remarkable.
Aparna Balamurali plays her role with grace, never overshadowing the more intense performances but providing a necessary balance to the heavy emotional drama. She becomes the audience’s entry point into the mysteries of Pillai’s past.

Verdict:

Kishkindha Kandam is a deeply atmospheric and introspective film that tackles themes of memory, guilt, and familial obligations. While its pace may not satisfy fans of high-octane thrillers, it excels as a mystery drama that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. Dinjith Ayyathan has crafted a nuanced and emotional narrative that is elevated by stellar performances and meticulous filmmaking.

Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Director:

Director: Dinjith Ayyathan.

Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Writer:

Writer: Bahul Ramesh.

Where To Watch Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie:

Currently running in theaters.

Kishkindha Kandam Malayalam Movie Rating:

Rating: 4/5.

FAQs: (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is Kishkindha Kandam about?
Kishkindha Kandam is a mystery drama revolving around the disappearance of a pistol, memory loss, and family secrets. The story focuses on a former Army officer and his family as they try to uncover hidden truths.
Who are the main actors in the film?
The lead roles are played by Asif Ali, Aparna Balamurali, and Vijayaraghavan.
How is Vijayaraghavan’s performance in the film?
Vijayaraghavan delivers an outstanding performance as Appu Pillai, a man struggling with memory loss, bringing depth and emotion to the character.
What is the significance of the missing pistol in the movie?
The missing pistol acts as a catalyst for uncovering deeper family secrets and drives the narrative forward.
Is the movie similar to Memento or Shutter Island?
While Kishkindha Kandam shares some thematic similarities with these films, particularly the exploration of memory loss, it stands apart with its unique cultural context and narrative style.
What are the movie’s strengths?
The film’s strengths lie in its character-driven plot, outstanding performances, cinematography, and sound design.
Is the film fast-paced?
No, Kishkindha Kandam unfolds at a measured pace, focusing more on character development and mystery rather than action or fast-paced thrills.
Who directed Kishkindha Kandam?
The film is directed by Dinjith Ayyathan.
Where can I watch Kishkindha Kandam?
The Kishkindha Kandam film is currently available in theaters.
What rating does the movie receive?
The movie is rated 4/5 for its strong narrative, performance, and technical brilliance.