“Pani” Movie Review
“Joju George Captivates in a Gripping Revenge Thriller”
In Pani, debut writer-director Joju George crafts a riveting revenge drama that holds the audience’s attention from start to finish. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Thrissur, the film revolves around Giri (played by Joju), a real estate magnate whose strength lies in his close-knit family and loyal circle of friends. Together, they navigate the thin line between compassionate builders and influential players in the town’s power dynamics.
The story takes a dark turn when two reckless youths, Don and Shiji, commit a shocking murder, sending ripples through the town and drawing the attention of both the police and Giri’s group. The tension escalates further when Don brazenly harasses Giri’s wife, Gauri (Abhinaya), igniting a fierce chain of events. Gauri’s resilience shines as she initially stands up against Don, but it’s Giri’s intervention that sets the stage for a high-stakes confrontation fueled by vengeance. What unfolds is an intense game of cat-and-mouse, driven by personal vendettas and unrelenting action.
Joju George delivers a powerful performance as Giri, seamlessly blending the character’s vulnerability with his unwavering resolve. While the narrative occasionally leans on familiar tropes of 1990s Malayalam cinema—like the morally complex hero and the traditional yet resilient matriarch—the film remains emotionally engaging. Abhinaya’s portrayal of Gauri adds depth to the story, and the supporting cast, including Alexander Prashant and Sujith Shankar, enhances the film with nuanced performances and dynamic chemistry.
Though some aspects, such as the family’s connection to the initial murder, are left underexplored, Pani compensates with its gripping action sequences and authentic depiction of Thrissur’s ethos. Joju’s direction ensures that the film, even with its share of clichés, delivers a captivating experience.
In an era where emotionally charged, action-packed dramas dominate, Pani stands out as a compelling addition. Joju George’s debut as a filmmaker strikes a chord, offering an intense and resonant revenge saga that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre.
Cast: Joju George,Abhinaya Anand,Sagar Surya,Junaiz VP,Seema IV Sasi and others
Director: Joju George
Rating…4.3/5