Manglish (2014)

Powerful

I don't have all the words right now but this film is a work of art.

A great movie, one of the best of this year. There was a bit of confusion at one point in the plot, but nothing serious.

It is a whirlwind of delight --- attractive actors, stunning couture, spectacular sets and outrageous parties. It's a feast for the eyes. But what really makes this dramedy work is the acting.

Manglish starring Mammootty, however, sticks to the old practice and revolves around the persona of the super star. A movie that won't exactly turn a winner in that expected sense, 'Manglish' is a movie that is one time watchable, which could turn a hit but with intense marketing. Director Salam Bappu plays it safe by catering to the fan base of the star, putting in every ingredient that brought him a huge following. There are smart cooling glasses, peculiar lingo, some comedy scenes and action. His character of the hero is the focal point of the film and the story comes in a distant second. Mammootty is Malik Bhai, a classy fishmonger whose circle of friends include politicians and film-stars. He is said to be the uncrowned king of Kochi as no land deal can be made without his approval. He is divorced from his wife, a rich politician's daughter, who left him under pressure from her father. An Englishwoman named Michelle (Caroline Beck) comes under Malik Bhai's protection. Our man does not know a word of the Queen's language, thereby creating many so-called humorous situations that are worth hardly a chuckle. There is an effort to make the story interesting by giving Michelle's story a twist; she is something more than just an overstaying tourist. She has come to protect her ancestral property that was taken over by the caretaker after her ancestors left India. As this film is a star vehicle, there is no use dissecting the performances of the other actors. Tini Tom puts in an appearance as Malik Bhai's right hand man, Vinay Forrt as an English speaking tourist guide and Sudheer Karamana is the husband of Malik Bhai's divorced wife. Caroline Beck, the Dutch actress playing the blonde damsel in distress, just passes muster. Srinda Ashab as Mumtaz, the younger sister of Malik Bhai, gets a better opportunity to display her acting talent than the leading lady. All in all, this 'Manglish' is a safe family entertainer without any double meaning. The movie at 145 minutes may end-up as a hit among family audiences and will come as a solace for everyone looking for a better film from Mammootty.