
Originally Posted by
critic
Top 5 Movies of 2012
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The year 2012 will be remembered as a year in which Malayalam Cinema grew in volumes...brought in huge crowds...attempted some new themes...got confused whether 'the immoral' means the 'new generation'... and finally is in the process of discovering probably that its just all about 'good' and 'bad' cinema.
Here is a personal pick of the 'Top 5 Movies of 2012' based on purely the writer's interest and indulgence. Its not based on any other factors. Movie with the writer's involvement, has been omitted for fair consideration. Its only a personal delight that, to pick 5 movies this year is much tougher than earlier years. Just goes to show what the year 2012 has been...
So, here begins the countdown of the Top 5 movies of 2012...
5. Ordinary - Director Sugeeth's directorial debut deserves this spot over many contenders, simply because of the fact that not only was it a story set in our 'ordinary lives' that was delightful to watch, but also because it took our imaginations and planted it in a Unexplored Hill Station. Virtually, Gavi and the ordinary Transport Bus became the most important props of the movie. Songs from Vidyasagar were soothing. Biju Menon stole the show among the cast and Kunchacko extended his 'soft hero' act. 'Ordinary' just rode in to our hearts, even though a Lal Jose hangover was evident.
4. Ustad Hotel - At the 4th position is Anwar Rasheed's Ustad Hotel. The coming of age story of a young guy who always wanted to follow his passion, escape to the life abroad and ends up finding more meaningful things in life. With awesome making in terms of background score, camera, songs, locations and direction, Anwar Rasheed managed to take its more or less 'bollywoodish' and 'cinematic' kind of script and made the ride enjoyable. Thilakan, Dulquer and Nithya scored with performances. But the movie belongs to Gopi Sundar who scored the best background of the year and also the chart buster 'Appangal Embadum'. More strengths to you, Anwar Rasheed.
3. Diamond Necklace - Lal Jose's 'Diamond Necklace' was a visually feel good movie about the financial discipline of a wayward man. Fahad Fazil played the part of the doctor who plays around with his cash and relationships, finally understanding that some things in life are worth more than just 'valuable assets'. Beautifully directed feel good movie with super songs from Vidyasagar, Lal Jose makes viewing the movie a 'easy to the eye' affair. Samvritha, Gauthami and Anusri scored as female leads. 'Diamond Necklace' held its mirror to today's generation who always aspire to buy for more than what they earn.
2. Thattathin Marayathu - With the first half which probably was the best cinematic period of the year, Vineeth Srinivasan's love story 'Thattathin Marayathu' was a musical journey that is going to be in our hearts for some time to come. Nivin Pauly put up an amazing performance and re-invented himself. Shaan Rehman gave us the best songs of the year. Jomon's visuals were ice cool. Isha Talwar brought back the serene beauty and the rest is history. In a time when pure love stories are a rarity, Vineeth gave the first romantic blockbuster after 14 years. Kudos to you, Vineeth.
1. Ayalum Njanum Thammil - In the year's most emotional tale of a doctor who discovers the nobility of his profession beyond just being a routine job for salary, Lal Jose's 'Ayalum Njanum Thammil', not only shook us but delivered a highly effective movie. You may have met people in life, who inspire and change the course of your existance, ANT was about such a relation between a ordinary guy and his mentor. Any director would fear to have his hero cry and break down so many times, to touch the feet of a kid whom he almost took the life of or to end the movie sitting on a bench and reliving his journey, these are probably the 'bravest' directorial moments of 2012 on screen. There is nothing 'safe' about these moments and thats why Lal Jose deserves an applause. Atleast, for letting our heroes be 'human'. Jomon's visuals were stunning and elevated the movie beyond its expected levels. Ouseppachan's music was soulful. Sanjay - Bobby's script was interesting even with short comings. Prithviraj and Pratap Pothen were awesome. Remya was good among female leads. All in all, thanks to Lal Jose for bringing back the 'Intense and Emotional' cinema. Life deserves a second chance and how!
Welcome to a greater time on Malayalam Screens in 2013.... Happy New Year!