When there is no way out, you dial 101, hopeful of a fireman coming to your rescue. However, when I dished out Rs 100 on a ticket for 'Fireman' I was not so hopeful, but after the movie, when I walked away, it was with the satisfaction that I spent my time and money on a movie worth watching. A movie, which in the coming days have the potential of a box office victory.
There was no hype; neither were the expectations high. Still it has all elements in place to keep the critics quiet, satiate the fans and common audience alike in the days ahead.
Fireman is a movie dedicated to the fire and rescue service personnel, who put the life of others before their own. It tells the story of a group of fire-fighters who come to save a town from a gas tanker tragedy. The story pans out in a day.
The film stands out for its theme and the adventurous scenes, both not-so-familiar to Mollywood. It could be the first film based on a fire rescue operation probably in India. The first half of the film is literally exciting but that pace is missing in the second half. The climax punch could have been a little more thrilling. Except for the one or two misses here and there, technically the film stands out.
Rahulraj's original score is catchy. The background score which is totally in sync with the narrative is another plus point. Cinematography by Sunoj Velayudhan and editing by V. Sajan do their part for the success of the film.
While the story is by Manoj-Renjith duo and Deepu, the screenplay and dialogues are by the director himself. The director deserves special claps for the craftsmanship he has kept throughout. The modest entry of Mammootty's character is an instance. After 'Crazy Goplan' and 'Theja bhai and family' Deepu has marked a fitting comeback with the flick.
Fireman proclaims that there is still a lot of fire in the veteran star Mammootty. Fireman Vijay again stands testimony to Mammootty's tireless attempts to play characters with a difference. The audience would understand the efforts Mammootty has put in to don the fireman's cap while watching the movie. After a short lull, Salim Kumar appears in the film with a stunning performance.
Siddhique, Nyla Usha, Unni Mukundan, Hareesh Peradi, Sadhique and Shivaji Guruvayur have done justice to their characters.
Firefighters are supposed to douse the flames that eat everything it comes across, but this 'Fireman' will set fire to theatres for sure. If fans turn up for a stunning performance of their dear mega star and commoners for a fireman's stunts, future will tell the story of a hit which emerged from no noise.