“How can one know if it's a true love,” asks Zaya to which Appu replies, “Look into the eyes and you will know.” Arun Gopy's much-awaited movie 'Irupathiyonnaam Noottaandu' starring Pranav Mohanlal is not a don story, as the tagline says. But it is a love story flavoured with a pinch of mafia style.
And like Arun Gopy's earlier outing Ramaleela, some patterns are repeated here too. The characters are quickly established and he has used humour in such a way that it does not hinder the flow of story line and rather gels well with situations.
Baba (Manoj K Jayan) is settled in Goa with his family consisting of wife and two kids, Ammu and Appu (Pranav). Arun Gopy develops the twist in the tale through Appu and Zaya (Zaya David), who's smart and fun loving tourist. Appu helps Zaya to see around Goa and falls for her charm. Appu's love hits a dead-end as Zaya vanishes from Goa without letting anyone know why she was there and why she left. Appu's search for her leads him to Kerala. But it does not end there, their affair soon takes a political and communal colour. Probably, that's how Arun Gopy pitched in with his 21st century love tale with a message in store. (No wonder if it reminds you of the Bollywood film Highway starring Alia Bhatt).
While the first half is a breezy romantic one with songs and dance, the second half is racy and full of action with the Pranav show. Pranav still needs to get the dubbing right for he makes one cheer with his stunts. Pranav is a good watch as a beginner, but it's the female lead whose character has more depth. Zaya David steals the show playing both as a bubbly lady and at the same time as a gloomy and disheartened girl. Her transformation is indeed commendable.
Gokul Suresh as Saghavu Franci makes a cameo apperance but definitely leaves an impression. Manoj K Jayan makes a cool dad whereas a special mention for Abhirav Janan who plays Michel Rony aka Macroni and impresses us with his comics and natural style of dialogue delivery.
The visuals by Abinandhan Ramanujam and music by Gopi Sundar blends perfectly with the mood.
Pointing out the contemporary problems in Kerala, Arun Gopy has tactfully managed to incorporate the Kevin honour killing case, Abhimanyu murder case and even the Sabarimala row in the movie. However, the VFX used at the climax should have been better.
Overall, Irupathiyonnam Noottandu which promises to travel through the 21st century is a decent entertainer with a good package and yes, there are enough fan moments too!
