Prakambanam Movie Review: A Mixed Bag of Horror Comedy and Political Messaging
Prakambanam, the latest horror comedy from director Vijesh Panathur, presents an intriguing premise that blends supernatural elements with campus life, but ultimately finds itself entangled in controversial political narratives. Starring Ganapathi, Sagar Surya, and Ameen in pivotal roles, the film attempts to break genre conventions while delivering laughs, yet its underlying themes raise significant concerns.
Plot Overview: Ghostly Grandmother and Campus Chaos
The story revolves around Rukmini alias Chembakathamma (Mallika Sukumaran), the matriarch of an elite Hindu family in northern Kerala. Despite her staunch religious beliefs, her sons Raghavan (Kalabhavan Navas) and Rameshan (Azeez Nedumangad) are committed Leftists, leading to constant familial discord. Following her death, her husband Madhavan (PP Kunhi Krishnan) secretly tasks their grandson Siddharth (Ganapathi) with disposing of her ashes in a temple town.
When Siddharth brings the ashes to his college hostel, chaos ensues as Chembakathamma's ghost possesses his friend Punyalan (Sagar Surya). The ghost, while not malevolent, creates ruckus whenever students violate her code of conduct, complicating life for Siddharth and his friend Shankaran (Ameen). The situation escalates when the ghost reveals her desire to commit a "small murder" before departing, forcing the trio into a frantic struggle while hostel mates grow suspicious of Punyalan's bizarre behavior.
Initial Impressions and Genre Subversion
At first glance, Prakambanam evokes memories of popular campus horror films like Adi Kapyare Kootamani, but director Vijesh quickly establishes a distinct identity by weaving student politics and mundane college realities into the narrative. Rather than relying solely on consecutive humorous moments, the film integrates these elements to create a unique viewing experience.
The director's approach to extracting chaos from various scenarios is particularly impressive, contributing to the film's entertainment value. However, beneath its glossy and hilarious surface, Prakambanam harbors multiple problematic layers that cannot be ignored.
Problematic Political Undertones
The film frequently presents itself as a savarna project that subtly critiques progressive ideologies, especially Leftism, while positioning Brahmanism and Hindutva as ultimate truths. One notable scene involves Siddharth preparing to deliver an election speech, only to be booed due to his party's reputation. When Punyalan, under the ghost's influence, takes the stage and quotes verses from the Bhagavad Gita, the audience is captivated, leading to Siddharth's electoral victory without further effort.
Throughout the narrative, Leftists are consistently portrayed as hypocritical and corrupt, whereas Chembakathamma embodies traditional values of parampara, pratishtha, and anushasan. While the film includes characters resembling the Kerala Students Union (KSU) to appear balanced, they are depicted as harmless jokers, whereas the Left alone is shown with ideological decay.
For instance, Raghavan, who initially advocates rationalism, abruptly becomes a believer upon realizing his mother's ghost exists. Additionally, the film portrays college hostels as hubs of immoral activities, particularly substance abuse, with Left-aligned political spaces depicted as breeding grounds for such behavior. Prakambanam also incorporates homophobic elements seemingly for comedic effect, further complicating its messaging.
Technical Brilliance and Performances
Despite its contentious themes, director Vijesh and writer Sreehari Vadakkan demonstrate remarkable skill in wrapping these issues in comedic packaging, enhanced by appropriate horror elements. The chaotic climax, featuring numerous ghosts escaping from exorcist Stanislavski's (Rajesh Madhavan) cupboard, stands out as a highlight that may distract some viewers from the political subtext.
Performance-wise, Sagar Surya successfully sheds his previous villainous image from Pani, though his comedic timing occasionally feels forced. Ganapathi delivers a reliable performance, handling his role with ease, while Ameen excels in humor, earning commendation. Sheethal Joseph also impresses as Punyalan's girlfriend Vedhika.
Music and Technical Aspects
The film's biggest strength lies in its music, with Bibin Ashok (soundtrack) and Sankar Sharma (BGM) delivering exceptional work that elevates the movie during weaker moments. Sooraj ES's editing provides a trippy rhythm to the visuals, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
Final Verdict
Prakambanam offers a fun, chaotic ride for viewers willing to overlook its problematic political undertones. While the horror comedy elements are executed with conviction and technical finesse, the film's subtle promotion of regressive ideologies and its portrayal of student life and politics remain significant drawbacks. For those seeking lighthearted entertainment without delving into deeper implications, it might provide temporary amusement, but critical viewers may find its messaging difficult to reconcile with its comedic facade.
Prakambanam movie cast: Ganapathi, Sagar Surya, Ameen, Rajesh Madhavan, Sheethal Joseph, Kalabhavan Navas, PP Kunhi Krishnan, Azeez Nedumangad
Prakambanam movie director: Vijesh Panathur
Prakambanam movie rating: 2 out of 5 stars
