ARM Movie Review

The Malayalam movie ARM, starring Tovino Thomas, released in theaters on September 12 and earned blockbuster status with audiences. Directed by Jithin Laal, ARM now streams in Telugu on Disney plus Hotstar, bringing its compelling storyline and visually impressive scenes to a wider audience. Known for his popularity in Malayalam cinema and gaining a foothold with Telugu audiences through OTT, Tovino's performance in ARM showcases his talent in a triple role that adds layers of intrigue to the plot.

Storyline:
Set near a mystical forested village called Haripuram, the story unfolds as a radiant beam of light from the sky creates a mysterious substance, later crafted by the local ruler into a revered idol known as the "Vibhuti Deepam." The village celebrates an annual festival around this idol, which is believed to be sacred and full of spiritual significance. However, Ajay (played by Tovino Thomas) and his lineage are excluded from these traditions, as both his father and grandfather were labeled as thieves, leading to Ajay himself being seen as an outcast.

Ajay finds companionship and understanding in Lakshmi, the daughter of the village elder Nambiar. While their relationship grows secretly, a distant relative named Sudheer arrives with plans to steal the Vibhuti Deepam and transport it to London. Amid the festival preparations, the idol mysteriously disappears, and suspicion falls on Ajay. To clear his name, gain acceptance, and win Lakshmi's hand in marriage, Ajay embarks on a journey to recover the idol. The quest is complicated by shocking revelations about the idol’s true origins, leading to twists that elevate the story to the next level.

Analysis:
ARM is an action-packed adventure set across three generations. The story, written by Sujith Nambiar, is executed with a screenplay by Deepu Pradeep that intricately weaves the lives of three characters portrayed by Tovino Thomas: the grandfather, father, and grandson. The unique design and styling of each character offer immediate visual distinction, making Tovino's triple performance engaging for the audience.

The narrative structure spans three different time periods, focusing on the mystery surrounding the idol across generations. With careful attention to continuity, the screenplay keeps the audience on their toes, avoiding confusion that might arise from the time jumps. Just as Ajay discovers the true story behind the idol, leading to a climactic turning point, the plot intensifies with each revelation, driving the story forward.

Performance:
Tovino Thomas delivers a commendable performance, successfully differentiating his characters as the grandfather, father, and grandson. His on-screen presence is almost constant, captivating audiences from start to finish. Krithi Shetty, though appearing sparingly, shines in her role as Lakshmi, adding charm to the few romantic interludes. Harish Uthaman as the young antagonist and Santosh as the elder Nambiar contribute solid performances that add to the film’s conflict.

Technical Aspects:
The film’s cinematography by Jomon John brings out the lush beauty of forests, caves, and waterfalls, creating a visually engaging experience. Dhibu Ninan Thomas’s background score elevates the tension and adds to the mystical aura of the storyline. The editing by Shameer Muhammad is seamless, ensuring the narrative stays focused without unnecessary detours. The film’s design, suitable for all age groups, lends it broad appeal, making it a worthy addition to the adventure genre.

Verdict:
ARM offers a unique blend of mythological mystery, action, and drama, anchored by Tovino Thomas’s impressive triple role. Though romance and typical song sequences are limited, the movie's strong plot and Tovino's engaging performance keep audiences invested. With a carefully crafted storyline and visually appealing production, ARM stands as a solid entertainer.