Watch Oppam

Oppam is a compelling 2016 Indian Malayalam-language film directed by Priyadarshan, which skillfully combines the elements of a thriller with a heartwarming drama. This film brings together an ensemble cast led by Mohanlal, who stands out with his exceptional performance, alongside other notable actors such as Samuthirakani and Anusree. The narrative weaves a unique blend of suspense, emotion, and morality that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

Mohanlal, one of the stalwarts of Indian cinema, plays Jayaraman, the central character of Oppam. Jayaraman is visually impaired from birth but possesses heightened senses that compensate for his lack of sight. His exceptional hearing, sense of smell, and spatial awareness make him adept at navigating his surroundings, a skill set that is integral to the story. Jayaraman's character brings an interesting dynamic into the film as it highlights the capabilities of differently-abled individuals in society and breaks stereotypes about their limitations.

The movie's plot revolves around Jayaraman's life and his relationship with a retired judge, Krishnamoorthy, portrayed by Nedumudi Venu. Jayaraman's virtues make him an indispensable caretaker for the judge, and they share a close bond that goes beyond a mere employer-employee relationship. The narrative picks up pace when a twist occurs, embroiling Jayaraman in a situation fraught with danger and mystery. An unfortunate event puts Jayaraman at the center of a crime he didn’t commit, and he finds himself in a situation where he has to use his unique abilities to clear his name.

Meanwhile, Samuthirakani delivers a strong performance as a relentless police officer determined to solve the crime. His character is pragmatic, focused, and operates with a no-nonsense attitude that stands in stark contrast to the warmth and innocence projected by Jayaraman. The interactions between these two characters are central to the film's gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Anusree plays a pivotal role in the film, bringing in both emotional depth and a strong female perspective. Her character is etched with nuances and provides a backbone to the unfolding drama, enriching the storyline by adding layers to the relationships illustrated in the movie.

The film isn't just about the chase and the mystery; it's also about human emotions, ethical dilemmas, and moral choices that challenge the characters. The screenplay is deftly handled, with suspense built up at just the right pace to ensure it's neither too rushed nor too slow. The movie cleverly uses red herrings and plot devices to keep the audience guessing about the true nature of the crime and who the real antagonist is.

Priyadarshan, known for his expertise in crafting beautiful narratives, doesn’t disappoint with Oppam. The movie’s strong point is not just the leading man’s virtuoso performance but also the director’s skill in treating the subject with sensitivity and candor. Oppam does not rely solely on dialogue to drive its plot; instead, it effectively utilizes sound design and music to augment the emotional and suspenseful aspects of the story. The cinematography artfully captures the essence of the narrative, giving viewers a sense of Jayaraman's perception of the world.

The soundtrack of Oppam complements its storytelling, with music by 4 Musics that beautifully underscores the emotional beats of the film. The melodies are haunting and stay with the viewer, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

Oppam offers a thrilling ride through a storyline that brilliantly explores the theme of darkness and light – not just literally in terms of the protagonist's visual impairment, but also metaphorically in terms of the darkness of injustice and the light of truth. The film provides plenty of edge-of-the-seat moments while also prompting the audience to reflect on the nature of perception and the strengths that often lie hidden beneath perceived weaknesses.

In conclusion, Oppam is a well-crafted movie that manages to be both an enthralling thriller and a touching story about human resilience and the triumph of the human spirit. Mohanlal's stellar performance is undoubtedly one of his finest, showcasing his ability to portray complex characters with ease. This is not just a film for fans of suspenseful narratives but also for those who appreciate cinema that delves into the depth of human capability and kindness. As one goes through the twists and turns of this movie, they are bound to appreciate the intricacies and the genius with which this film is made, making it a standout piece in Malayalam cinema.