When was the last time you watched a movie, so closer to the actor who plays the lead role in it. Call it the hand of god or pure coincidence, Ramaleela bears some striking similarities with ongoing sexual assault case related to which dileep was arrested. Touted to be a political thriller, Ramaleela lives up to expectations in terms of performances and overall designing. Ramanunni, son of martyr Raghavan resigns from his party and joins the opposition as the election candidate. His mother disowns him almost immediately while public also looks at him with much hatred. Ramaleela is about how Ramanunni wins the heart of his mother and people through his tactics (Leela). Though Ramaleela follows the pattern of Dileeps’ 2004 blockbuster Lion, lion has a strong humour and romance track which is typical of a dileep movie. Ramaleela is a much more serious cinema in its conviction and execution, though shajohn provides a comic relief .Film also has a strong emotional quotient which will appeal to the audience. Dileep does his job with utmost conviction. He delivered a controlled performance unlike his recent flicks. His body language, dialogue delivery and screen presence was super good as Ramanunni. It was also a relief to see him in this avatar after many logicless uttercrap movies done in recent past.Kalabhavan Shajohn who played the usual sidekick to the protagonist also does a good job. Prayaga did an okay job while renji panicker was wasted. Mukesh, Siddique also delivered good performances. But it was Arun Gopy who deserves a standing ovation. His direction along with an engaging screenplay by Sachy made all the difference. Some of the dialogues were quite striking. Ramaleela also doesn’t defy or glorify any particular political party unlike many movies in recent past. Gopi sundar’s BGM was appealing and plays a prominent role in elevating some scenes. Editing was also good. But second half could have been trimmed. Sequences in resort was felt stretched beyond a point, however an excellent climax, though predictable, makes it up. Rich production values are evident from each frame of the movie. Shaji Kumar’s DOP is also good. To round up, Ramaleela is an excellent political thriller that must be watched in theatres. Easily one of the best of 2017! VERDICT: 4/5 NB: RAMALEELA’S VICTORY IS A SLAP RIGHT ON THE FACES OF SOME MEDIA’GOSWAMI’S WHO THINKS THEY ARE THE VOICE OF KERALA SOCIETY!
