“Aavesham” is a delightful gangster comedy that promises an exciting ride, especially with Malayalam star Fahadh Faasil both starring in and producing the film. Directed by Jithu Madhavan, known for the hit film “Romancham,” “Aavesham” blends humor and action, delivering an engaging and memorable cinematic experience.
Set in Bengaluru, “Aavesham” follows the story of three Malayali college freshmen – Bibi (Midhun), Aju (Hipster), and Shanthan (Roshan Shanavas) – who are mercilessly ragged by their seniors. To exact revenge, they seek out local support and stumble upon Ranga (Fahadh Faasil) in a seedy bar. Ranga, a gangster adorned in gold chains and flashy attire, initially appears comical, but his true power soon becomes evident. The trio drags Ranga into their college politics, leading to a series of humorous and action-packed events.
Jithu Madhavan’s direction shines in “Aavesham,” demonstrating his ability to craft a well-written gangster comedy. The film’s humor is rooted in witty dialogues and the excellent chemistry between characters, particularly between Ranga and his right-hand man Amban (Sajin Gopu). The young actors, including Midhun, Hipster, and Roshan Shanavas, deliver superb performances, making the college dynamics believable and entertaining.
Fahadh Faasil’s portrayal of Ranga is the film’s highlight. His comedic timing, expressive gestures, and unique character traits make Ranga both endearing and formidable. Fahadh’s performance, especially in scenes like the post-shower dance, adds a layer of charm to the gangster persona, making Ranga a memorable character.
The film is visually captivating, thanks to Sameer Thahir’s cinematography. The raw and immersive feel of the film is enhanced by the challenging geography and unsuitable weather conditions of Bengaluru, which are captured beautifully on screen. Sushin Shyam’s trendy and hip music complements the film’s youthful vibe, while Vivek Harshan’s editing, although occasionally in need of trimming, keeps the narrative engaging.
“Aavesham” excels in character development, particularly in how it portrays Ranga. The ambiguity surrounding Ranga’s true nature adds depth to the storyline, keeping the audience intrigued. Amban’s humorous stories about Ranga and the boys’ skepticism about his gangster abilities contribute significantly to the comedy. The film cleverly balances the quirky and serious aspects of Ranga’s character, making him both a source of laughter and an unpredictable force.
“Aavesham” is a must-watch for its unique blend of humor, action, and stellar performances, especially by Fahadh Faasil. While the film has its shortcomings, such as a slightly stretched second half and a lack of significant female characters, these can be overlooked in light of the stunning performances and overall entertainment value it offers. In conclusion, “Aavesham” is a madcap entertainer that showcases Jithu Madhavan’s directorial prowess and Fahadh Faasil’s exceptional talent. It’s a film that promises laughter, thrills, and a unique cinematic experience.
