Cast: Tovino Thomas, Krithi Shetty, Aishwarya Rajesh, Surabhi Lakshmi, Basil Joseph, Jagadish, Kabir Duhan Singh, and others
Director: Jithin Lal
Writer: Sujith Nambiar
Music: Thibu Ninan Thomas
Cinematography: Jomon T. John
Editing: Shameer Muhammad
Malayalam actor Tovino Thomas has also gained recognition in Telugu cinema. His lead roles in ‘Minnal Murali’ and ‘2018’ have been successful in Telugu as well. His latest film ‘ARM’ has now been released, featuring Tovino Thomas and Krithi Shetty in lead roles. In Malayalam, the film is titled ‘Ajayante Random Motionam’ (ARM), which translates in Telugu to ‘Ajayan’s Second Theft.’ How did the pan-India release ‘ARM’ fare? Did it enchant the Telugu audience? Has Tovino Thomas scored another hit? Let’s find out in this review.
Plot
Ajay (Tovino Thomas) lives a simple life in his village, doing small jobs and living with his mother (Rohini). His grandfather Maniyan (Tovino Thomas) was once a notorious thief, which leads villagers to suspect Ajay whenever a theft occurs. Meanwhile, the Sreebhuthi Lamp (an idol) in the village temple, more valuable than gold, attracts the attention of Sudeva Varma (Harish Uthaman), who plans to steal it and frame Ajay for the theft. However, Ajay’s family has been protecting this lamp for generations. How does Ajay save it this time? What is the history behind the idol? What role does the legendary hero Kunjikelu (Tovino Thomas) play in this history? What about Ajay’s love track with Lakshmi (Krithi Shetty)? You have to watch the movie to find out.
Performances
Tovino Thomas impressively portrays three different roles. His portrayal as the heroic Kunjikelu, with significant battle scenes, is captivating. His performance as grandfather Maniyan is also commendable, showing great versatility across his roles, from heroic to serene in Ajay’s character. Each character variation highlights his depth in acting. Krithi Shetty delivers a fine performance as Lakshmi, embodying a 90s girl perfectly. Surabhi Lakshmi’s role is engaging, appearing in a dual capacity that adds to the narrative. Rohini and Harish Uthaman’s characters are pivotal to the storyline.
Direction
Despite being his debut, director Jithin Lal’s execution of a story intertwined across three generations is clear and engaging. The entry of the legendary Kunjikelu accelerates the pace of the film with his heroics and the boon he asks from the king after saving the kingdom, followed by revelations that add intrigue. The portrayal of Maniyan’s character by the director stands out, particularly how he discovers where the lamp is and plans its theft. The confrontational scenes when Maniyan and Ajayan’s paths cross are emotionally powerful. However, other characters lack impact, a weak love track, predictable plot points, and a feeble climax detract from the film.
Technically
Technically, the film is high-quality. Thibu’s background score and songs add a fresh flair to the film. Jomon T. John’s cinematography is captivating. The editing is adequate, and the production values are high.
Plus Points
– Tovino Thomas’s acting
– Historical backdrop
– Music
Minus Points
– Predictable storyline
– Weak climax
