Kayamkulam Kochunni Movie Review: Nivin Pauly and Mohanlal Impress in This Big-Budget Period Adventure, Say Critics

The biggest film in actor Nivin Pauly's career, Kayamkulam Kochunni, releases today, which also happens the Malayalam superstar's birthday. Directed by Rosshan Andrews (Udayananu Thaaram, Mumbai Police), Kayamkulam Kochunni is based on the real-life adventures of the legendary 19th-century thief whose exploits are a part of the Kerala folkore. The film, considered as one of the most expensive movies ever made in Malayalam cinema, was supposed to come out during Onam but got pushed because of Kerala floods. Sanjay-Bobby has scripted the film. Kayamkulam Kochunni Trailer: Nivin Pauly and Mohanlal Team Up For An Epic Entertainer About Kerala's Own Robin Hood!

Kayamkulam Kochunni also stars Babu Antony, Sunny Wayne, Priya Anand, Priyanka Thimmesh, Shine Tom Chacko and Manikandan R Achari. The biggest casting highlight of the film, though, is Megastar Mohanlal who plays Itthikara Pakki, Kochunni's guide and fellow thief. Early reviews are in and they are in praise of the film-setting and art design, Andrews' direction and the performances, especially that of Nivin Pauly and Mohanlal. Check out the excerpts of some of the reviews below -

Times of India says, "Nivin Pauly impresses by living the character effortlessly, both as the young, innocent braveheart and the animal-like highway man. The role of the villain Keshavakurup was safe with Sunny Wayne, who played it with the right amount of maturity. Babu Antony as Thangal and Priya Anand as Janaki have also played their roles well. The brief dance sequence that Mohanlal's character does midway through the tale are uncalled for, though, and adds no zing to the tale other than may be a round of claps from his diehard fans."

Sify says, "The film is essentially about the transformation of Kochunni from a youth with a heart of gold to a tough robber, with amazing scope for action. It is a treat to watch as Nivin Pauly conveys the varying emotions in a superb manner. In a role which is quite different from what he has done until now, Nivin shines spectacularly well. Priya Anand has a limited role to play. Babu Antony and Sunny Wayne are impressive. And then there is Mohanlal, who is in the film playing an extended cameo in mesmerizing style. He looks dapper and his character has been so well presented to raise the mercury levels and it does just that in an amazing way."

FilmiBeat says, "Rosshan Andrrews, the captain of the ship has steered forward the ship in the right direction. The film-maker takes his own time to set up the things, especially in the first half, which narrates the early tales of Kayamkulam Kochunni. The two halves of the film have been duly designed by the film-maker and second half is more about the Kayamkulam Kochunni that we have heard, with his heroics coming into foray. Rosshan Andrrews has convincingly carved these two variations on the big screen."

Watch the Trailer of Kayamkulam Kochunni Here -

So have you seen Kayamkulam Kochunni? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 11, 2018 02:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).