Kaathal (2023)
Kaathal stands out as a novel family drama, a rarity in Malayalam cinema, featuring an unconventional protagonist and an unfamiliar love story. In the midst of a dreamlike streak, Mammootty once again astounds with a remarkable performance, seamlessly embodying the essence of the character with captivating intensity. His audacious choice of roles, particularly this one, showcases tremendous courage, making the film a compelling watch solely for him. Jyothika, in an equally substantial role, delivers a solid performance, despite the dubbing being a bit off.
The material at hand was bold, progressive, and intense, but the film as a whole fell short of reaching soaring heights due to a somewhat meandering narrative. In the film's concluding moments, viewers are treated to truly rewarding scenes, predominantly fueled by exceptional performances, effectively compensating for the movie's inherent flaws. Kaathal is undoubtedly a worthy attempt and an essential film, addressing a very pertinent topic, but that doesn't necessarily elevate it to the status of a great film. However, there are no doubts when it comes to the leading man – you can watch it just for him.
This film deserves admiration primarily for one person – Mammootty. At this stage in his career, he continues to reinvent himself, pushing the boundaries of being a phenomenal actor. What truly makes Kaathal exceptional is Mammootty's decision to take on the role and deliver it with remarkable conviction, setting him apart from a myriad of actors.