Maheshinte Prathikaaram could be the sweetest tale of revenge. Packaged with delightful humour, endearing romance, crisp stunts, charming music and an engaging screenplay, the film set in scenic Idukki has all the elements of an entertainer.
Director Dileesh Pothen’s movie starts off with its protagonist Mahesh(Fahadh) taking a dip in the chilly waters of Idukki, humming a popular tune from Mohanlal’s Narasimham and eventually washing his slippers squeaky clean. After a series of events - starting from a trifle argument in a distant corner of his village - turns his life upside down, he vows not to put on his footwear till he takes revenge.
The film, though, is not a regular revenge thriller; it has a heavy dose of rib-tickling comedy that stems from the actions of its rustic characters and their sensibilities. The movie has a smart cast and Syam Pushkaran’s screenplay, for most part, keeps the audience guessing, albeit gleefully.
Fahadh’s seamless portrayal of a rustic naive lad, who transforms into a confident persona, is a joy to watch. He hardly puts a foot wrong(no pun intended) and the actor has a brilliant support cast in Alencier Ley Lopez as his older buddy. Soubin Shahir’s comic timing once again stands out.
The leading ladies - Anusree and Aparna Balamurali - are spot on with their expressions, with the latter making her mark as an effervescent, sensible girl who falls for Mahesh. Shyju Khalid’s cinematography - aided by some crisp edits and coloring by Saiju Sreedharan - makes the film visually appealing. Bijibal’s tracks and background score adds to the movie.
Maheshinte Prathikaaram is a movie that has many feel-good moments and something everybody can relate to. This tale of sweet revenge is a rare genial comedy.