There were way too many reasons to watch this film on the first day. Darling Fahad, Abi Varghese, George ichayan, Girigiri, Rincy chechi and the one super awesome trailer it has got! The film was quite entertaining, natural in its own way, very engaging, fun filled and very very unique. The film reminded me of Wes Anderson films in its framing, sets and all. But Abi created his own style with his debut feature itself, a style which Malayalam cinema has never seen before.
The film was very fresh in its way of story telling too. Every scene was picture perfect with apt dialogues and controlled performances by almost every actor who showed up. Vijay Raaz did a commendable job. So did Vinay Forrt. Sanju Sivram and Tovino Thomas though their screen time were less, did what is needed for the film. Iswarya Menon was very adorable on screen. George ichayan's mass intro had Akkara Kazhchakal background score to accompany (goosebumps). His comfort in working with Abi and team was evident as he was in really good form. Nandu as DP Pallickal's father excelled as usual. The only flaw the film had was its not-so-convincing climax. After getting a super cool start and a super awesome progress till midway, the film somehow didn't quite excite me with its climax. But that's nothing compared to the hardwork Abi and his team has put to make the film this special and it has paid off really well. The artwork, costumes by Monica Mayorga, frames by Lukasz Pruchink and the music and score by Jakes Bejoy all complemented the film well. The song in Raag Jog was really good. Some of the props and quotes the director used in some shots shows his brilliance. Abi is here to stay! :)
Now the only thing left to mention is the most important thing. The biggest plus of Monsoon Mangoes. Do I need to say?? Fahad was beyond extraordinary on screen. Some of the expressions he did were just, I'm sorry I'm out of words! Monsoon Mangoes is another evidence of the impeccable comedy timing this man has got. He'll go places and will take Malayalam cinema to heights. I hope more fresh and unique projects come to you.
Don't set the destination, Let the destination find you! :)
