Bramayugam Review: Horror Thriller's Exceptional Take On Politics Of Power And Caste; Mammootty Rules And Arjun Ashokan Excels (image: instagram.com/rahul_madking)
The genre excels, and actors are at its finest, Bramayugam reviews are out.
Through incorporating mythology, Bramayugam gives “a brilliant take on the politics of power and the significant role caste plays,” Anandu Suresh writes for Indian Express. “In today’s socio-political context, this theme gains relevance as the historically oppressed groups continue to be exploited by those in positions of authority.” The reviewer lauds Director Rahul Sadasivan”s world-building, TD Ramakrishnan’s dialogues capturing the nuances of the world, and performances by Mammootty, Arjun Ashokan, and Sidharth Bharathan. On Mammotty”s performance, the reviewer remarks: “Even at this age and stage in his career, he doesn’t hold back in even the most disturbing scenes in the film, going all in and extracting the best from himself to elevate the movie. His sharp and measured dialogue delivery, along with the malevolence he exudes through subtle glances and smirks, further enhances the brilliance of Bramayugam.”
Besides, Rahul Sadasivan”s impeccable treatment of the genre, and yet-again impeccable performance from Mammotty, there are many surprises in the movie; “The biggest among all is Arjun Ashokan,” writes Nadeer Ashraf for Timeline. Bramayugam delves into the concept of power, hegemony, and hierarchical social order. “In “Bramayugam” or “Age of Madness,” Mammootty’s character exemplifies the dynamics of power and hegemony within society, reflecting broader social science theories. His control over the abandoned mansion symbolizes hegemonic power, where he dictates the actions of others to maintain dominance,” Nadeer Ashraf reviews. In its compelling narrative on power dynamics and hegemonic control, the movie illustrates how individuals and institutions reinforces the ideals of dominance through manipulation, coercion, and the perpetuation of ideological norms, the review adds.
Bramayugam is “a perfect blend of folklore and horror,” writes Janani K for India Today. The movie prepares th audience for the ride; even in the slow phase, the movie traps the audience inside Rahul Sadasivan’s world like Paanan (Arjun Ashokan) trapped the Potti”s (Mammootty) mansion. “The black-and-white visuals make ‘Bramayugam’ immersive. In simple dialogues (by popular writer TD Ramakrishnan), concepts about time, power politics, fate, faith, religion, superstition and most importantly, social constructs are explained in a hard-hitting way,” the reviewe adds.
Bramayugam effortlessly merges horror, thriller and folktale elements, Swathi P Ajith writes for On Manorama. The monochrome format, reviewer says, intensifies the haunting beauty of the movie, and the amplified shadows, therefore, plays tricks on viewer”s mind. “Performance-wise, Mammootty dominates the screen, injecting the story with his trademark intensity and depth. His ability to effortlessly navigate characters with negative shades shines once again, making him the movie”s undeniable driving force. Arjun Ashokan”s performance hits you right in the feels – his helplessness and ear are palpable. Sidharth Bharathan, in contrast, exudes composure and delivers an equally impressive performance,” the reviewer observes.
