If ever there were an ‘exaggeration measurement device’ in a movie set, it would remain somewhere close to the maximum in many sequences in Jeethu Joseph’s “Nunakuzhi.” Almost everything, including the performances, is loud by two notches above the normal limit. Yet, much of it works well for the kind of film it is, making for a hilarious and spirited cinematic experience.
“Nunakuzhi” coasts along on a series of lies and mix-ups, one built on top of the previous. It all begins with a laptop seized by income tax officials during a raid at a company. Eby (Basil Joseph), who has reluctantly taken up the company’s mantle after his father’s death, had stored some personal videos on the laptop. The videos being seen by anyone else is unthinkable for Eby and his wife (Nikhila Vimal), prompting him to embark on a frantic mission to trace the IT officer (Siddique) in possession of the laptop.
As Eby’s quest unfolds, his path serendipitously intersects with that of Resmitha (Grace Antony), who is navigating the stormy waters of a difficult divorce proceeding. Meanwhile, the bizarre scenario of a dentist’s lifeless body lying undiscovered in his clinic unfolds, with a woman accidentally locked up in one of the rooms. In another subplot, an aspiring filmmaker (Althaf Salim) is caught up in a script reading session with a pompous film star (Manoj K Jayan). Naturally, all these parallel storylines are bound to converge in one colossal, confusing mix-up that keeps the audience guessing and laughing.
Jeethu Joseph, who has not ventured into humor for a while, makes a bold return with an all-out comedy in “Nunakuzhi.” KR Krishna Kumar, having previously scripted Jeethu’s “12th Man” and “Kooman,” delivers an evenly-paced screenplay packed with witty one-liners. Much of the film’s success is attributed to the rapid-fire editing that deftly switches between the parallel storylines, ensuring the comic timing of the performers—whether seasoned veterans or fresh talent—is spot on. For every joke that doesn’t quite land, two others hit the mark perfectly. Even the few thriller elements in the narrative are cleverly infused with humor, making for a seamless blend of genres.
Basil Joseph, portraying a character who steadfastly refuses to mature and repeatedly lands in self-dug holes, plays to his strengths.
. Although his performance is noticeably louder than usual, it fits the film’s heightened comedic style. A standout scene featuring an extended ‘poison mix-up’ with Grace Antony is nothing short of side-splitting. Baiju Santosh, in the role of a police officer with an uncanny knack for comic timing, brings a refreshing element of humor through his distinctive dialogue delivery. Even in a familiar typecast role, he manages to inject new life into the character. Siddique, too, shines in his role, adding to the ensemble’s robust performance.
On the whole, “Nunakuzhi” is a briskly-paced fun ride, showcasing Jeethu Joseph’s adeptness beyond his well-known thriller genre. The movie’s energetic narrative, coupled with its ensemble cast’s impeccable comedic timing, ensures that viewers are thoroughly entertained from start to finish. It’s a testament to Joseph’s versatility as a filmmaker and his ability to craft compelling stories across different genres.
Jeethu Joseph’s directorial prowess shines brightly in “Nunakuzhi,” proving that the acclaimed filmmaker can successfully pivot from suspense-filled thrillers to laugh-out-loud comedies. By intertwining multiple storylines and maintaining a frenetic yet coherent pace, Joseph ensures that there isn’t a dull moment in the film. The chaotic convergence of subplots culminates in a climax that is as bewildering as it is humorous, leaving audiences simultaneously amused and astounded.
Krishna Kumar’s screenplay deserves special mention for its tight structure and clever dialogues that seamlessly weaves humor into the fabric of the storyline. The writing, combined with the film’s brisk pacing and skilled performances, creates a potent mix that keeps the audience engaged. The editing plays a crucial role, maintaining the film’s momentum and ensuring that the transitions between the overlapping narratives are smooth and effective.
“Nunakuzhi” is currently running in theatres and is a must-watch for fans of Malayalam cinema and anyone looking for a hearty dose of laughter. It is a film that exemplifies the power of well-executed comedy, proving that even in the chaotic web of lies and mix-ups, there can be a rhythm and reason that culminates in an enjoyable cinematic experience. Simultaneously, it highlights Jeethu Joseph’s versatility and reinforces his reputation as a master storyteller capable of traversing diverse genres with ease.
