Movie Review: Papa Buka

On December 8th, 2025, I had the privilege of watching the screening of Papa Buka at the Cine Grand in Fremont, an experience made even more special that our friend Prakash Bare co-produced the film and delivered a compelling performance as Anand Kunjiraman. This new film—Papua New Guinea’s official Oscar nomination is a heartfelt and visually captivating film that immerses the audience in the rugged beauty of New Guinea and the rich lives of its native tribes. The cinematography exquisitely showcases the land’s untouched landscapes, while the outstanding music elevates every scene with emotional depth. Each character leaves a strong and lasting impact. What moved me most was the sincere and powerful presence of Papa Buka, who steps into his first acting role with remarkable honesty. His performance feels natural, deeply human, and emotionally resonant—he becomes the soul of the story.

The narrative, set in 2010, offers an intimate glimpse into the region’s culture and its people. At the same time, it stirs broader reflections tied to the World War II struggles. Why do wars happen ? Who truly benefits from the war? Perhaps no one.

Papa Buka transcends the boundaries of a traditional film—it's an emotional journey into a world rarely seen on screen, one that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Heartfelt congratulations to Prakash Bare, Dr. Biju, and actress Ritabhari Chakraborty as Rumila, who was present at the preview.

Wishing all the more success and awards to promote many such stories that are yet to come out to the world!

~ Dawn

Movie Review: Ronth (Malayalam Crime Thriller)

Ronth is a gripping Malayalam crime thriller that truly left me stunned. What a story, what a suspenseful ride! Shahi Kabir has once again proven his strength in storytelling and direction—every scene was taut with tension, emotion, and realism.

Roshan Matthew and Dileesh Pothan delivered phenomenal performances. Their acting felt so effortless and natural that they didn’t just play their characters—they became them. The subtlety, intensity, and emotional depth they brought to their roles was truly commendable.

While the film keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout, the ending leaves you with a sense of sorrow and reflection. It’s heartbreaking. It reminds us how rarely we think about the personal lives and silent struggles of police officers. A few corrupt ones may taint the name of the force, but the pain and sacrifices of the honest ones—and their families—often go unseen and unacknowledged.

Ronth is not just a crime thriller. It’s a mirror to society, and a powerful commentary on justice, morality, and the human cost behind the uniform.

~ Dawn

Malabar Tales – A Cinematic Journey into the Heart of Kerala’s Folklore

"The only safe thing is to take a chance. ~ Mike Nichols"

I would like to start this blog with that quote today.

As we all know some films entertain, some provoke thought, and then there are those rare gems like 'Malabar Tales' that transport you into a world brimming with history, culture, and mysticism. Rooted in Kerala’s rich folklore, this film is a visual and emotional masterpiece, seamlessly blending mythology with contemporary storytelling. I might feel more because I grew up outside of Kerala just like the Writer/Director/Producer Anil Kunhappan.

The movie weaves together multiple short stories from the Malabar region, interconnecting them with a beautifully written central thread. Each tale is crafted with depth, evoking emotions ranging from awe to introspection. The storytelling never feels rushed, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the magical realism that defines the film.

The cinematography captures the essence of Kerala’s backwaters, forests, and temples, making every frame feel like a painting. 

The performances in 'Malabar Tales' are nothing short of extraordinary. Each actor brings their character to life with raw emotion and authenticity, whether it’s the storyteller guiding the audience through these ancient narratives or the villagers embodying the myths passed down for generations. 

A film like 'Malabar Tales' demands a soundtrack that complements its grandeur, and it delivers spectacularly. The music, deeply rooted in Kerala’s classical and folk traditions, enhances the mystical aura of the stories. From haunting chants to rhythmic folk beats, the soundscape adds a surreal depth to the narrative. 

"People have forgotten how to tell a story. Stories don't have a middle or an end any more. They usually have a beginning that never stops beginning. ~ Steven Spielberg"

Unlike many period or folklore-based films that merely present cultural nostalgia, 'Malabar Tales' revives the spirit of oral storytelling, making it relevant for modern audiences. The film not only honors the past but also presents folklore as a living, breathing part of Kerala’s identity. In many ways, I found myself connecting with the storyteller, as the film resonated with my own feelings about Kerala, despite having grown up outside of it.

'Malabar Tales' it’s a film that celebrates Kerala’s cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of storytelling. With its captivating narrative, stunning visuals, compelling performances, and immersive sound design, this film is a must-watch for cinephiles and lovers of folklore alike.

Every film has a beginning and an end, but 'Malabar Tales' stands out by keeping the audience engaged, leaving them wanting more, and provoking deep thought about what might have happened beyond the final scene. Each story within the film encourages reflection, not by providing direct answers, but by inspiring viewers to seek their own interpretations and solutions.

"When given an opportunity, deliver excellence and never quit. ~ Robert Rodriguez"

I was truly captivated by the storytelling and craftsmanship of the film. When my husband handed me the phone, saying, "Talk to my longtime friend who made this movie," I shared my initial thoughts, though they felt raw and too soon to fully articulate my emotions. However, one thing was clear—I wanted to see more films like this come to light and receive the recognition they deserve.

We all can contribute to that by watching and sharing this film. This movie can be watched on 'ManoramaMax streaming' platform. 'Malabar Tales' is not a commercial blockbuster with megastars, but it proves that great storytelling doesn’t need them. What it does need—and delivers flawlessly—is strong narration, talented actors, and a director who knows how to extract the essence of the story through them.

The music is used thoughtfully, enhancing the narrative where needed and seamlessly blending with the theme. The film is crafted with intelligence, and I deeply appreciate the effort behind bringing it to the audience.

Thank you, Anil. I look forward to seeing more of your work, making an impact on storytelling and, ultimately, on humanity itself.

~ Dawn

A Tale of Two Feminist Narratives

Cinema has long been a powerful medium to challenge societal norms, and both The Great Indian Kitchen (2021, Malayalam) and Mrs (2024, Hindi) attempt to shed light on gender roles and the oppression women face within traditional marriage structures. However, while both films tackle similar themes, The Great Indian Kitchen stands out as a more powerful, immersive, and hard-hitting experience compared to Mrs, which, despite good intentions, falls short in its execution.

 

The Great Indian Kitchen, directed by Jeo Baby, is a masterclass in subtle yet gut-wrenching storytelling. The film follows a newlywed woman (Nimisha Sajayan) who gradually realizes the suffocating nature of her marriage. The monotony of housework, the indifference of her husband and in-laws, and the dehumanization of her identity are depicted with such realism that it becomes an almost visceral experience for the audience. There are no over-the-top dialogues—just the repetition of everyday chores, making it painfully relatable.

On the other hand, Mrs, starring Sanya Malhotra, attempts to present a modern, urban take on a woman’s fight for identity within a patriarchal setting. While the premise is promising, the film leans heavily on dramatic dialogues and predictable conflicts rather than relying on the subtleties that made The Great Indian Kitchen so haunting. Mrs presents its protagonist’s journey with a more polished, commercial approach, which, while engaging, doesn’t quite deliver the same emotional punch.

Nimisha Sajayan’s performance in The Great Indian Kitchen is nothing short of extraordinary. She doesn’t rely on loud confrontations; instead, her exhaustion, frustration, and quiet rebellion seep through her expressions and body language. It’s an organic transformation from subjugation to resistance, making her final act of defiance all the more satisfying.

Sanya Malhotra in Mrs is undoubtedly strong in her role, but the writing doesn’t allow for the same depth of transformation. Her character’s journey feels somewhat rushed and formulaic, making it harder for the audience to truly immerse themselves in her struggle.

Jeo Baby’s direction in The Great Indian Kitchen is meticulous. The cinematography focuses on the daily grind—chopping, cooking, cleaning, serving, and then repeating the cycle endlessly. The close-up shots of oily kitchen sinks, the clatter of utensils, and the mechanical nature of household chores make the audience feel the protagonist’s suffocation. The film’s silence is deafening, forcing viewers to absorb the sheer exhaustion of domestic oppression.

Mrs, directed by Arati Kadav, has a more conventional Bollywood-style execution. The film is well-shot, and the production design is slick, but it lacks the raw intensity that makes The Great Indian Kitchen unforgettable. Instead of letting the audience experience the protagonist’s reality, Mrs tends to explain it, making it less impactful.

Both films raise important questions about gender roles, the expectation of women to conform, and the battle for autonomy. However, The Great Indian Kitchen does it with a quiet rage that stays with you long after the credits roll. It doesn’t rely on grand speeches; instead, it forces the audience to sit in discomfort and truly understand the oppression that millions of women face daily.

Mrs tries to deliver a similar message, but it does so in a more direct, mainstream-friendly way, making it a less powerful critique of patriarchy. While it succeeds in addressing the issue, it doesn’t push the boundaries as effectively as The Great Indian Kitchen.

While Mrs is a well-intentioned film that highlights an important issue, it ultimately pales in comparison to the brutal honesty of The Great Indian Kitchen. The latter is a cinematic experience that forces you to confront uncomfortable truths without the need for excessive drama. If you’re looking for a film that truly challenges the status quo and lingers in your mind long after watching, The Great Indian Kitchen is the clear winner.

Also, keep an eye on Jeo Baby—he has crafted some extraordinary films that will leave a lasting impact on audiences.

~ Dawn

Turbo: Revving Up for a Fun Ride, But Watch Out for Bumps

 

Turbo, the latest Malayalam film starring Mammootty, promises a high-octane action experience. Here's a breakdown to help you decide if it's your cup of chai:

The movie shines in its action sequences, particularly the car chase scene lauded for its choreography and execution. Mammootty delivers a strong performance, balancing humor and action. Fans will appreciate the well-done stunts and the film's energetic vibe.

The plot, according to critics, is predictable and the script struggles to find its footing between humor, drama, and action. Some characters, like the villain, lack depth, and emotional moments fall flat.

Overall, Turbo is a fun watch for fans of action entertainers, especially those who enjoy Mammootty's screen presence. However, if you're looking for a deep story or well-developed characters, you might be left wanting.

If you're looking for a popcorn flick with impressive action sequences and Mammootty's charm, Turbo might just take you for a thrilling ride. But if you crave a more intricate story, you might want to consider waiting for a different film.

One thing I must say that Mammootty's dedication to the role is incredible! Performing those stunts at his age deserves a standing ovation. Even young actors might be intimidated by that level of commitment.

~Dawn