Manichitrathazhu movie review

Manichitrathazhu 

Manichitrathazhu (The ornate lock) released in 1993 is a Malayalam classic film.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa and Apthamitra were remakes of this. I wanted to watch the original with subtitles. So I did.

Very good psychological thriller film, must watch. 8.5/10, I'd say.

Details (no spoilers)

Positives:

1. A film well ahead of its times with respect to handling of psychology.

2. Great acting from Shobhana as Ganga. No wonder Shobhana won the National Award for this performance. The climax scene in particular is telling. Vidya Balan is a great actress, but her performance in climax scene of Bhool Bhulaiyaa doesn't hold a candle to Shobhana's in the original. Vidya was convincing enough, but you could see her trying hard. But Shobhana truly embodied the character in that climax scene.

3. Great acting from Mohanlal as Dr.Sunny and very good acting from others.

4. Interesting storyline

5. Good music and some nice comedy

Negatives:

1. The line between tantra and psychology is a bit blurred at one place.

2. Storyline not tight/entirely convincing at couple of places.