‘Patriot’ review: Mammootty shines in a grounded drama that is affected by lack of urgency

Who is a ‘Patriot’? Malayalam cinema, known for its wide range of impactful films, rarely delves deeply into the theme of patriotism. While a few films like ‘Kurukshetra’ and ‘Kaalapaani’ have touched on national pride, such films are few and far between. The industry has mostly stayed away from exploring what it truly means to be a patriot, especially in today’s world.

In this context, Mahesh Narayanan’s latest venture, ‘Patriot’, attempts to address this gap, though not fully. The film mostly focuses on issues of data breach and privacy, a modern day concern. While this becomes the focal point of the story, it also touches on themes of national loyalty and sacrifice.

The story revolves around Daniel James, an ex-DRW agent, who is portrayed as a respected and honest officer. He shares a close bond with Nalini Ramakrishnan (Revathy), a senior official in the government. When Daniel begins to suspect a breach of national security involving sensitive data, his investigation sets off a chain of events that places him in direct conflict with the very establishment he once served. As he unravels a web of political and technological intrigue, Daniel finds himself branded a traitor, with his loyalty questioned by those he once trusted.

One of the standout aspects of 'Patriot' is its nuanced storytelling. Mahesh Narayanan, a filmmaker known for his successes with films like 'Malik' and 'Take Off', brings a depth to the narrative that elevates it. He skillfully layers the story, building momentum in a way that suits the complex themes the film tackles. Rather than resorting to flashy gimmicks or unnecessary embellishments, which a less experienced director might have done, Mahesh’s confidence in his craft allows him to maintain a steady pace and intensity, making every element of the story feel purposeful and impactful. His ability to keep the momentum going without relying on distractions, especially in the first half, is a testament to his expertise and understanding of the material.

Another standout feature of 'Patriot' is its high-stakes action sequences, particularly a thrilling plane scene that evokes comparisons to the intense aerial chases seen in the James Bond franchise or movies like 'Top Gun: Maverick'. This is something never attempted before in Malayalam cinema, and the way it has been executed is nothing short of breathtaking. The tension, the precision, and the visual spectacle of these moments make it clear that every rupee spent on these scenes was well worth it. Those moments are further elevated by the background score from Sushin Shyam, who blends tension and atmosphere effectively through his music.

As the story unfolds, there are moments when the script and the filmmaker seem to settle into a sense of complacency, which starts to affect the film’s pacing and overall impact. A noticeable lack of urgency begins to creep in, and this works against the film, especially since much of the narrative revolves around a corporate setting. Thrillers, at their best, thrive on a growing sense of urgency and tension that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Unfortunately, in 'Patriot', the story loses some of that suspense as it progresses, becoming somewhat predictable.

Mahesh Narayanan is a director known for keeping things grounded and authentic, which is why it's not entirely fair to expect him to oversell the material. However, when two of Mollywood’s biggest stars come together on screen, especially after nearly 18 years, there’s an undeniable opportunity to make their moments unforgettable. Individually, both Mammootty and Mohanlal deliver strong performances, but Mohanlal’s cameo feels underutilized and could have been explored more deeply to leave a stronger impact.

The supporting cast also adds significant value to the narrative. Kunchacko Boban, Fahadh Faasil, Darshana Rajendran, Zarin Shihab and Nayanthara all bring depth to their roles, enriching the story with their performances. Director-turned-actor Rajiv Menon, despite considering himself a ‘reluctant actor’, does an excellent job on screen, showing that he’s more than capable of holding his own in front of the camera.

However, the film could have benefited from a more detailed backstory for the villains. By providing them with more context and motivation, their characters could have added an extra layer of intrigue to the plot. Overall, 'Patriot' stands out as a film that explores uncharted territory in Malayalam cinema. While it may remind audiences of certain pan-Indian films they’ve seen before, it remains a rare and bold attempt in the industry.