'Sangarsha Ghadana' has its standout moments and offers something fresh for Malayalam cinema. Krishand has crafted a revenge story set against the backdrop of world events, blending it with the philosophical journeys of its characters.
Published Dec 23, 2024 | 1:35 PM ⚊ Updated Dec 24, 2024 | 9:09 AM
'Sangarsha Ghadana' at IFFK. (Supplied)
Malayalam director Krishand is known for his unique filmmaking style. His new film Sangarsha Ghadana (The Art of Warfare) is a gangster drama, with Krishand’s touch.
The movie was screened at the recently concluded 29th International Film Festival of Kerala in the “Malayalam Today” category.
Sangarsha Ghadana follows the story of a revenge drama, told in a way we’ve not seen before in Malayalam cinema, making it a fresh take.
Unlike other recent Malayalam films that have portrayed extreme violence, this movie does not resort to such intense brutality. Instead, Krishand has drawn inspiration from the Chinese book The Art of War, incorporating its teachings into the film, which adds an interesting layer to the narrative.
Like Krishand’s previous films Purusha Pretham (2023) and Aavasavyuham (2022), Sangarsha Ghadana also has undertones of dark humour despite belonging to different genres. Aavasavyuham was a science fiction mockumentary, and Purusha Pretham was about a police procedure.
In Sangarsha Ghadana, Kodamazha Suni (Sunil Padaveedan) is a retired don, planning to leave his criminal life behind. However, a person emerges seeking revenge against him. The movie opens with a blast sequence and takes the story down various paths, creating an engaging narrative. A group of young gangsters targets Suni.
Kunjanandan (Vishnu Agastya) has a personal grudge against Suni, and the film revolves around their enmity. What makes the film even more compelling is its unique presentation. Kunjanandan is ruthless and willing to go to any lengths, while Suni, though ready to retire, faces one final battle against his enemies.
‘Sangarsha Ghadana’ is a gangster drama. (X)
Krishand has incorporated elements from world events into Sangarsha Ghadana. For instance, when a child is kidnapped, it references the suffering of children in Palestine due to the ongoing war. The movie highlights how children are the most affected in war zones like Gaza and Palestine.
An explosion in the film alludes to the nuclear bombings of Nagasaki. The movie also suggests that those without a plan in war are destined to fail, a theme reflected in the characters’ journeys.
Sangarsha Ghadana offers a fresh experience for Malayalam cinema. Krishand drew inspiration from Chinese writer Sun Tzu’s The Art of War, adapting elements of the book into the narrative. The film also explores the philosophical journey of its characters. Interestingly, Kodamazha Suni is shown craving lime juice with pepper, a detail captured with care. At the same time, the cruelty of Suni isn’t watered down as he is shown as a powerful gangster in Kochi.
The movie also includes humorous moments, particularly between gangsters Sethu (Zhinz Khan) and a police officer played by Manoj Kana, providing some lighter relief. This is undoubtedly Krishand’s loudest and fastest film to date, with an unconventional narrative style and elements of an investigation genre.
The female officer in the movie challenges the stereotypical male investigators typically seen in thrillers. Even though women are often present in investigation films, this character defies the usual formula.
The film is designed to be accessible to everyone, with layers of meaning for those who pick up on the director’s references.
‘Sangarsha Ghadana’ refers to world events. (X)
Sangarsha Ghadana boasts an impressive technical team, with Rajesh Naroth’s background score and music deserving praise. Prayag Mukundan’s cinematography also stands out in the film.
The performances in the movie are strong, particularly by Vishnu Agastya, Sanoop Padaveedan, Shinz Khan, and others.
Vishnu Agastya, making his mark in Malayalam cinema, plays Kunjanandan, a man set on taking revenge against Kodamazha Suni. Sanoop Padaveedan, cast as Suni, was a great choice for the negative role.
Manoj Kana brings humour to his role as the police officer, while Zhinz Khan plays Sethu, Suni’s relative and a peacemaker in the gang. Rahul Rajagopal also delivers a solid performance as Rafique, a tough goon.
(Edited by Sumavarsha)
