Director: Leo Thaddeus
Cast: Jayaram, Shanthi Krishna, Dileesh Pothen, Joju George, Anna Rajan.
Since the release of its trailer, Leo Thaddeus’ Lonappante Mammodisa has caught much attention. Jayaram, who plays the lead in the movie, had assured that this one would be a special experience. The movie proves to be that way with lots of positive aspects.
Lonappante Mammodisa chronicles the life of Lonappan and his life around a village in Thrissur. Lonappan, who owns a watch repairing shop named ‘Amalolbhava’, leads a normal life without problems. His life becomes miserable when he realises how successful his childhood friends are compared to him. The movie takes a turn when Lonappan rediscovers his talent of storytelling. The film also talks about how people make life complicated when it should be treated as simple.
Jayaram, who essays the role of Lonappan, has done a class act in the movie with a very subtle and sincere performance. There are moments when his performance brings back the memories of his characters in Veendum Chila Veettukaryangal and Bhagyadevatha. For the actor, who appeared in a bunch of below par movies recently, this one is a lifeline. Same goes with director Leo, who had a poor run of form with not-so impressive movies. He makes a good comeback with Lonappante… Though the film has some drab moments in the beginning, towards the half, it gains momentum with decent storytelling.
Shanthi Krishna proves her mettle by handling well a character that is very much emotional and challenging. Dileesh Pothan, Joju George, Anna Rajan, Hareesh Kanaran, Innocent and Alancier Ley Lopez have done justice to their roles.
There are a couple of wonderfully written and composed songs which make the audience sing along. Decent performances, very good cinematography and fine editing make this movie interesting and a onetime watch.
