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Joju George’s directorial debut Pani kicks off with a compelling Tarantinoesque vibe but struggles to maintain its momentum due to inconsistent writing. The film introduces us to two naive youngsters, Don Sebastian (Sagar Surya) and Siju KT (Junaiz VP), whose seemingly ordinary lives take a dark turn as they commit a premeditated murder. This sets the stage for a gritty narrative, filled with crime, revenge, and the dynamics of power in Thrissur.
Joju George shines as Giri, a ruthless yet layered leader whose love for his wife (played by Abhinaya) adds depth to his character. The first act is strong, building a world reminiscent of Gangs of Wasseypur and Angamaly Diaries. Unfortunately, the film loses its edge as it falls into clichéd tropes, particularly relying on unnecessary depictions of sexual violence to drive its revenge plot.
Highlights:
- Performances: Joju George delivers a commanding performance, supported by a talented cast, including Abhinaya and Sagar Surya.
- Technical Excellence: Stunning visuals, effective sound design, and an engaging score by Vishnu Vijay and Sam CS elevate the film.
- Direction: Joju’s vision and ability to build tension in crucial scenes, like the courtroom shooting, showcase his potential as a director.
Lows:
- Script Flaws: The screenplay misses crucial details, sidesteps logic, and overuses tired clichés, reducing the impact of key moments.
- Inconsistent Pacing: The second half loses steam, leaving underdeveloped characters and unresolved plot points.
While Pani offers glimpses of brilliance, its lack of a cohesive and fresh script undermines its overall impact. Joju George’s directorial skills and on-screen charisma are commendable, but the film falls short of joining the ranks of Malayalam cinema’s iconic gangster dramas.
Rating: ⭐⭐¾ (2.75/5)
🎥 Pani stars Joju George, Abhinaya, Sagar Surya, and Junaiz VP, with music by Vishnu Vijay and Sam CS.
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