Produced by Anto Joseph and written and directed by Mahesh Narayanan, MALIK is a political-crime drama that has the current OTT sensation Fahadh Faasil playing the lead. The movie gets an Amazon Prime release. Mahesh Narayanan is well known for his bumper hits “TAKE OFF” and “C U SOON” that the OTT crowd enjoyed making Fahadh Faasil a name to reckon with across the country.

The first ten minutes of MALIK is fantastically shot and composed and sets up for an intriguing proceeding. Unfortunately the buck stops there. The film progresses slowly on a flat scale and a largely conventional note. MALIK has a bit of everything action, relation, emotion, communal tension and a good dose of politics, but none come across compelling enough. What works for the film is its unadorned narration that seldom slips into jingoism. The story still holds forte despite the presence of terrific actors. MALIK is grand yet largely restrained.

Fahadh Faasil proves yet again why he is the “darling” of Indian cinema today. He has tough competition in the form of Dileep Pothan and Nimisha Sajayan and yet delivers a strong performance. Dileep Pothan is exceptional in a role that has myriad emotions. Nimisha Sajayan is that extraordinary actress who for now looks irreplaceable. Others in the supporting cast are amazing too.

MALIK has very strong production design. Sanu John Verghese stupendous camera work is a treat to watch. Sushin Shyam’s background score is evocative. Mahesh Narayanan’s edit is tight. Dialogues are good and director Mahesh Narayanan will be a name to surmise in Indian cinema.

MALIK is a decent watch for its gargantuan ambition.

MALIK – MAVERICK!!

2.5/5

B.U.Shreesha.