The haunting Malayalam drama Ullozhukku, directed by debutant Christo Tomy, paints a gripping portrait of human struggle and resilience set against the backdrop of a flood-ravaged island. This evocative film delves deep into the lives of its characters struggling on multiple fronts, revealing unseen layers of emotional complexity through its powerful narrative.
In Ullozhukku (which translates to Undercurrent), every character seems trapped in their unique dilemmas. An unburied body remains as a grim reminder of their helplessness, with submerged floodwaters covering the burial grounds. The living, particularly Anju (played by Parvathy Thiruvothu) and her mother-in-law Leelamma (played by Urvashi), grapple with the stark reality of their existence. Anju is a young woman ensnared in an unwilling marriage, while Leelamma, who has battled her struggles over the years, clings to the only life she knows, despite its monotony and hardships.
The film unfolds in an isolated house on an island surrounded by backwaters. As the floodwaters rise, the characters face literal and metaphorical isolation, with a country boat serving as their sole connector to the outside world. The setting becomes a rich metaphor for their internal emotions—both Anju and Leelamma have their personal struggles and moral grey areas.
In a different filmmaker’s hands, this situation might have devolved into melodrama or simplistic villainization. However, Christo Tomy approaches his characters with a rare sensitivity and nuance. His storytelling subtly undermines any one-dimensional judgments the audience might have formed. For example, in a poignant scene, Leelamma shares her past disappointments and dreams with Anju, revealing her own experiences as an unwilling bride. This moment underscores the emotional connection and evolving relationship between the two women, highlighting their complex inner lives.
The film’s title, Ullozhukku (Undercurrent), aptly captures the thematic depth of the movie, which probes into the hidden, mysterious psychological terrains of its characters. The evolving relationship between Anju and Leelamma is marked by secrets and suppressed emotions, adding layers to the narrative.
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Christo Tomy masterfully brings this story to life with a pace that mirrors the ticking of a clock—slow, deliberate, and reflective. Initially, the film rushes through Anju’s hurried romance with Rajeev (Arjun Radhakrishnan), her marriage to Thomaskutty (Prasant Murali), and Thomaskutty’s subsequent illness. But soon, it slows down, digging deeper into the simmering uncertainty and pain.
Urvashi’s portrayal of Leelamma stands out as a tour de force in understated acting. With masterful control and subtle gestures, she brings a devastatingly powerful emotional presence to her role. Her performance can evoke sympathy even when one disagrees with her character’s actions. Parvathy Thiruvothu, in her return to Malayalam cinema, delivers an equally compelling performance, capturing the nuances of Anju’s internal conflict. Prashant Murali and Arjun Radhakrishnan also contribute significant performances, each adding to the film’s rich tapestry.
Cinematographer Shehnad Jalal’s work complements the film’s tone, beautifully capturing the melancholic essence of the story. His visuals enhance the narrative’s emotional depth, making the audience feel the characters’ inner turmoil and the somberness of their environment.
The screenplay, while strong, isn’t without its flaws. It occasionally leans on convenient plot turns and some characters’ actions seem illogically driven by the need to reach a predetermined climax. Despite these minor hiccups, Tomy’s directorial craft shines through, skillfully evoking the right emotions at the right moments, encouraging viewers to overlook these small inconsistencies.
Ultimately, Ullozhukku is a stunning directorial debut from Christo Tomy, establishing him as a filmmaker to watch in Malayalam cinema. The film beautifully combines strong performances, a thoughtful script, and compelling visuals to explore deep and emotionally resonant themes. Ullozhukku is currently showing in theaters and is a must-watch for anyone interested in a moving, thought-provoking cinematic experience.
