Thalavan, directed by Jis Joy, promises an intense thriller with a gripping storyline.
Movie Review: Thalavan
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Director: Jis Joy
Cast: Biju Menon, Asif Ali, Miya George
Genre: Thriller
Runtime: 2 hours 20 minutes
Table of Contents
Thalavan: A Promising Premise That Falls Short (Review)
“Thalavan,” directed by Jis Joy and starring Biju Menon and Asif Ali, had the potential to be a gripping investigative thriller. It boasts a compelling premise – two police officers, one senior and experienced (Biju Menon), the other young and ambitious (Asif Ali), find themselves on opposite sides of the law when the latter becomes a suspect in a murder case.
Intriguing Set-Up, Uneven Execution:
The film starts strong, establishing a dynamic between the two lead characters. Menon delivers a characteristically solid performance as the no-nonsense Jayashankar, while Ali portrays the hot-headed Karthik with conviction. The initial investigation unfolds with a sense of intrigue, keeping viewers engaged as they try to piece together the puzzle.
Missed Opportunities:
However, “Thalavan” stumbles in its execution. The plot, while initially interesting, fails to deliver any significant twists or surprises. The investigative process feels drawn-out at times, lacking the thrill and suspense one expects from a crime thriller. The exploration of the emotional conflict between the two officers, which could have added depth to the narrative, remains underdeveloped.
Technical Aspects and Performances:
Despite the script’s shortcomings, the film benefits from some technical aspects. Sharan Velayudhan’s cinematography creates a decent visual experience, although it doesn’t fully capitalize on the film’s setting. Both Biju Menon and Asif Ali deliver strong performances, anchoring the film with their screen presence.
The Final Verdict:
“Thalavan” presents a promising premise but fails to live up to its full potential. The intriguing setup and strong lead performances are overshadowed by a weak script and a lack of suspense in the investigation. While it might hold some appeal for fans of the lead actors or those seeking a light crime thriller, overall, “Thalavan” is a missed opportunity for a truly captivating film.
