Ajayante Randam Moshanam review: A visual spectacle complemented by fine performances

Tovino Thomas’s Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM) is one of the most anticipated Onam releases. A major highlight of the film is the actor’s appearance in triple roles, and it is also shot in 3D.

The film delivers a captivating viewing experience with a fantasy tale set across three different periods. Director Jithin Laal has elevated his vision, and the 3D experience enhances the film’s appeal.

Ajayante Randam Moshanam begins by introducing Kelu (Tovino Thomas), a warrior during the Portuguese era in Kerala. Kelu assists a local king and receives an idol, which he places in the temple of his village, Haripuram.

The narrative revolves around this idol and the strong beliefs of the villagers in Haripuram, a fictional place.

The second role portrayed by Tovino is Maniyan, a thief. It’s the most celebrated character in the movie. Maniyan’s daring acts and his relationship with Manikyam (Surabhi Lakshmi) play a crucial part in the story.

Maniyan’s pivotal moment comes when he steals the idol from the temple. The plot focuses on what happens to the idol and the beliefs of the villagers.

Ajayan, Maniyan’s grandson and Tovino Thomas’s third role, is burdened by his ancestor’s misdeeds.

Ajayan is a naive man from a lower caste and is in love with a girl (played by Kriti Shetty) from an upper caste. His journey begins when Sudev (Harish Uthaman), a character with a negative streak, asks him to steal the ancient idol.

Set in the 1990s, this mission becomes a defining moment for Ajayan, who is already viewed as a thief due to his heritage.

Also Read: Breathtaking trailer for Ajayante Randam Moshanam out

Brilliant writing

The film weaves together stories from three different eras, with writer Sujith Nambiar skilfully connecting them. The missing pieces from each time period fall into place as Ajayan seeks to clear his name.

The screenplay is well-crafted, with the fantasy elements seamlessly integrating into the different timelines. Non-linear editing adds to the film’s complexity.

The humorous moments, especially involving Basil Joseph as Ajayan’s friend Suresh, offer comic relief.

The second half is stronger, with more revelations about the idol and engaging interactions between Ajayan and Maniyan. The film’s conclusion is one of its main highlights.

While reports suggest Ajayante Randam Moshanam was converted to 3D, the format works well, especially in the second half, where key moments unfold.

Jomon T John’s cinematography deserves praise, particularly the night scenes and action sequences.

Dhibu Ninan Thomas’s background score and songs also elevate the film’s pace.

Noteworthy performances

Tovino Thomas is remarkable and excels in all three roles, with Maniyan standing out as the hero.

Surabhi Lakshmi shines as Manikyam, while Kriti Shetty and Aishwarya Rajesh perform their roles effectively.

Basil Joseph and Aju Varghese provide solid support with other actors.

Rohini, Madhupal, and Sanju Sivaram also contribute well.

Also Read: ARM has a universal appeal, says Malayalam actor Tovino Thomas

Final take

Ajayante Randam Moshanam is a visual spectacle that boasts impressive performances by Tovino Thomas and a strong supporting cast.

(Views expressed here are personal.)

(Edited by Y Krishna Jyothi)