Manjummel Boys Telugu Review: A Gripping Survival Thriller

The Telugu Version of Manjummel Boys has hit the screen today. A survival thriller directed by Chidambaram. Let’s see how the movie fared on screens.

Story:

In 2006, a group of friends from Manjummel decided to take a trip to Kodaikanal. They are envious of their rival gang who often go on trips and live life to the fullest. During their visit to Guna Cave, one of the friends falls into a deep pit known as Devil’s Kitchen, from which no one has ever come out alive. The film is about how the Manjummel Boys save their friend from this perilous situation.

Technical Analysis:

The survival thriller has been brought to life by the production design by Ajayan Chalissery, sound design by Shijin Hutton and Abhishek Nair, background score by Shusin Shyam, and cinematography by Shyju Khalid. While the editing in the second half is good, it could have been improved in the initial hour. Chidambaram did a great job directing the film and he successfully captured the emotional essence of the story. His vision for the film and the way he presented it on the big screen is commendable. Additionally, the film pays tribute to Kamal Haasan’s iconic film ‘Guna’ and its beautiful track Priyathama. However, the first hour of the film could have been improved upon.

Plus Points:

• Director Chidambaram delivers a gripping tale focusing on human emotions and friendships as a central theme.
• The film effectively creates tension without showing detailed visuals of the incidents leaving viewers emotionally moved.
• Stunning production design especially the pit set piece adds realism to the rescue operation scenes.
• Background score by Shusin Shyam and extraordinary visuals by Shyji Khalid heighten the suspense and engagement.
• Exploration of Subhash’s post-trauma experience adds depth to the narrative

Minus Points:

• Slow pacing in the first half, particularly in the initial 40 minutes, may deter engagement.
• The world-building and character introductions could have been better presented for enhanced involvement.
• While the initial sequences have a connection with the climax, their execution feels stretched and underwhelming, affecting the overall pacing.
• Predictability in the storyline slightly impacts the viewing experience, as some scenes may feel anticlimactic due to minimal dramatization.

Verdict:

Overall, Experience the gripping survival tale of ‘Manjummel Boys,’ a film that stirs profound emotions. Its latter half captivates with intense engagement, particularly during the riveting rescue sequence. Stellar performances by Shoubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Deepak Parambol, and the entire cast elevate the narrative. However, the initial half lacks momentum with a leisurely pace and the climax may seem predictable. Yet, these minor drawbacks aside, the film’s technical finesse demands a cinematic viewing. It’s a compelling experience worth watching.

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