Ayalum Njanum Thammil

Story: The film depicts how a senior doctor transforms an indifferent young doctor into a committed, responsible person.

Movie Review: Ayalum Njanum Thammil may not come across as a stunning narrative. A care-free young doctor is chided, comforted and tolerated by an extremely committed senior doctor. The transformation is graceful. But there is nothing profound about it and it is neither dramatic nor magical.

Yet the film radiates a grace that gently switches between the past and the present to reveal the life of Dr Ravi Tharakan (Prithviraj). Right from the moment, the tired face of Ravi Tharakan emerges from the dark; Prithviraj seems to be absolutely certain about his character. It is as though he willingly indulges in a process of redemption.

In the film he looks so very human and makes it work with a restraint. Even the playful abandon he lends to his impulsive medical student period suits his character. His polished face, which remains stony for quite some time, is touchingly expressive in some scenes where he does nothing but stare. Sometimes he’s teary-eyed, sometimes angry.

But never before has his stare seemed more meaningful and in the process Ravi Tharakan becomes one of the most brilliant portrayals done by the actor. He does not flinch even in the presence of Prathap Pothan (Dr Samuel) who at times overpowers Ravi.

Both actors strike an instant rapport and they just fly along with the narrative. Two scenes are strikingly moving. Ravi refuses to treat a little girl and she waits till Dr Samuel arrives. He treats her and takes a step towards Ravi. It seems a volcano is about to erupt and Samuel slaps him.

In another scene, Ravi is at his mentor's grave. His face is calm, save a tear trickling down his face. He glances down at the grave meditatively and sighs. He does not break down, slowly turns around and walks back. The scene testifies what Prithviraj has got within him to whip out a stirring moment even from perfect silence.

Lal Jose makes Ayalum Njanum Thammil highly lovable with his discreet choice of locale, interiors and an array of characters who make the film endearing. Jomon T John wonderfully sweeps along the misty Munnar, the dank interiors of a hospital and blend them with the nuanced expressions of the characters.