Watch Oozham

Oozham is a 2016 Indian Malayalam-language revenge thriller film directed by Jeethu Joseph, who is well-known for his previous work Drishyam. The film features Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead role, with notable performances from Pasupathy, Divya Pillai, and a well-rounded supporting cast that includes Balachandra Menon, Neeraj Madhav, and Rasna Pavithran. The movie intertwines elements of drama and action to tell a gripping story of vengeance and justice.

The protagonist of Oozham is Surya (played by Prithviraj Sukumaran), a young and accomplished demolition expert based in the United States. Surya's life is deeply rooted in his affectionate family that resides back in India, and the bond he shares with them is depicted with warmth and depth at the beginning of the film. Despite his overseas career, Surya's heart lies with his family, and he often reminisces about the time spent with them.

The narrative shifts gears when an unexpected tragedy strikes Surya's family while he is away. With his world turned upside down, Surya returns to India to face the consequences of the catastrophic event that has befallen his loved ones. The film portrays his struggles as he copes with loss and starts to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the tragedy.

Overwhelmed with grief, Surya's character undergoes a transformation as he realizes that this was no accident but a deliberate act orchestrated by influential and corrupt figures within society. The film delves into themes of corruption, power, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their interests. The character's journey is fueled by a relentless desire for retribution against those who have destroyed his family's happiness.

As Surya begins to unravel the mystery behind the tragedy, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous cat-and-mouse game with the antagonists. The character of Pasupathy plays a pivotal role in the plot, showcasing his strong acting skills as he navigates the murky waters of morality and justice.

Divya Pillai plays the female lead with a sense of resilience and adds a layer of emotional depth to the story. The supporting cast adds substance to the narrative, each with their respective backstories and motivations that intersect with Surya's quest for revenge. Balachandra Menon, Neeraj Madhav, and Rasna Pavithran bring their A-game to the table, with each character significantly contributing to the unfolding drama.

Oozham stands out for its meticulous attention to detail, especially in how the plot is structured. The film incorporates a non-linear narrative where events are not presented in chronological order, keeping the audience constantly engaged and on the edge of their seats. Jeethu Joseph skillfully weaves the backstory with present events, providing the viewers with clues and insights at strategic points throughout the movie.

One of the highlights of Oozham is the confrontational dynamic between the protagonist and the antagonists. The movie steers clear of typical over-the-top action sequences and instead relies on intelligent and strategic moves by both sides. The idea of a 'chess game' is often used as a metaphor for the strategical battles depicted in the film. Surya's background in demolition becomes particularly symbolic, as his expertise in dismantling structures parallels his methodical dismantling of the adversary's defenses.

Prithviraj Sukumaran delivers a solid performance as Surya, balancing the emotional turmoil of his character with the calculated coldness required for his revenge-fueled mission. The actor's portrayal of a man on the edge of despair, yet unwavering in his pursuit of justice, contributes significantly to the emotional depth and intensity of the film.

The technical aspects of Oozham, which include cinematography, editing, and the musical score, complement the brooding atmosphere and tension of the narrative. The music, which plays a subtle but impactful role, amplifies the emotional beats and suspense at crucial moments.

Overall, Oozham is characterized by its taut screenplay, strong performances, and Jeethu Joseph's precise direction. The film provides not only an exploration of the emotional ramifications of personal loss but also a satisfying thriller that keeps audiences guessing until the very end. The complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas presented make Oozham a thought-provoking experience as well as an engaging cinematic journey. Without resorting to excessive violence or typical clichés, the film manages to maintain a realistic approach to the revenge thriller genre that appeals to both critics and audiences alike.