KR Rejeesh – Google

St in 1996, 'King of Kotha' has the usual template of an action movie that showcases vendetta and treachery in friendship. A tad twist is there in between but most of the part is predictable. Any way, it's refreshing to watch Dulquer as a callous hero who rules the place called Kotha. The film establishes DQ to the next level regarding the so-called 'action-hero' status. Meanwhile, Shabeer Kallarakkal, who makes the most of his role, is impressive throughout the film. It's one-time watchable film and will certainly be a favourite for a DQ fan....Rating 2.7/5

"Kooman" is the tale of a sensitive Civil Police Officer, who goes to the extend of giving nice scheming on the sly to his superior officer when the former's ego is hurt. But in that process, the hero falls into a mental dilemma. And then he begins solving the mystery behind a series of deaths in his village and that probe leads him to Tamil Nadu too. At a glance, the film has an intriguing first half even as the climax portions are a bit overdone. The plot has unconvincing elements but Jeethu Joseph could sustain the suspense milieu intact till the climax. Performance-wise, Asif Ali could create an impact throughout. In fact, Jaffer Idukki as thief Maniyan steals the show within the limited space given to him. The film makes you keep guessing about the killer in major parts and that's the strength of the tale, scripted by KR Krishnakumar. It's a bit lengthy and you may not be convinced of certain incidents in the film. Overall, a watchable suspense thriller ..3/5 [DON'T GROUSE THAT JEETHU JOSEPH HASN'T GIVEN ANOTHER "DRISHYAM" :) ]

The best thing about director Vinayan's "Pathonpathaam Noottandu" is that the flick shies away from glorifying/exaggerating the deeds of the historical character. Here, the focus is on social evils that prevailed in the 19th century Kerala. Siju Wilson is apt in the character but actress Kayathu Lohar steals the show as Nangeli. Obviously, the film gives the feeling of dramatic effect that may make modern viewers squirm in their seats. Special mention to visuals, well-made action sequences and the art department. BGM is also equally deserves applauds. Overall, it's a far better film than the other period dramas that were released recently in Malayalam....

The film has a weak tale set in the backdrop of a village at Nedumangad in the 80's. The conflict is about a television set, a luxury in those days. People gather to watch Doordarshan on a B&W TV at Yatheendran's (Johny Antony) house. Chandra Bose (Vishnu Unnikrishnan), a close friend of Yatheendran, and his family also go to watch television programmes. Once a petty issue prompts Chandra Bose to challenge Yatheendran that he would buy a colour TV. The film's second half delineates how Chandra Bose buys a TV and the consequences he faces. Though the settings of the film evoke nostalgia for those who were born in the 80's, the film's plot clearly lacks vitality. The rustic Thiruvananthapuram slang and a couple of songs are the positives in the film, directed by award-winning director VC Abhilash of "Alorukkam" fame. Verdict: Below Average

Filmmaker Joshiy's expertise in treatment and narration are effectively handy for "Pappan", an investigative thriller that generates perfect emotional vibes for good. It has the plot of cops in search of a serial killer with the help of a former police official, Abraham Mathew Mathen aka Pappan. Albeit the film bears the familiar template of a thriller, it is engaging to an extent as it is able to keep viewers guessing about the proceedings till the climax. Suresh Gopi and Neeta Pillai are impressive as major characters. Gokul Suresh has nothing to do as a performer. It's the dilemma of a police officer to choose between his official duty and family at a critical juncture. A watchable thriller due to its neatness in the making and the portrayal of conflict in the emotional bonding between a father and daughter, both officially and personally.

"Malayankunju" has a simple plot that gets a remarkable sheen by an enthralling performance by Fahadh Faasil. The story is uneventful, still, the protagonist's mental conflict and his attitude toward the people around him become a decisive factor in the film. The second half turns out to be the act of survival by the hero, Anikuttan, played by Fahadh, while being trapped in a landslide. Sajimon has a promising directorial debut, handsomely aided by the cinematography and screenplay by Mahesh Narayanan. A must watch in theatre to feel the essence of the second half.

'Ullasam' is a romantic drama with a platter of cliched scenes that are bereft of soul and depth. Two youngsters bump into each other during a train journey in Connoor. Unfortunately, they are stranded in a forest. The first half, which belongs to the pair, is about how they reach Coimbatore city. The second half is a little more engaged but due to the lacklustre and aimless plot, you tend to lose your interest in the film. Shane Nigam has tried his best even as the tale doesn't have anything special to offer. Newcomer Pavithra Lakshmi has a decent outing. The major issue is the hollow script and shoddy direction. Swaroop Philip's cinematography gives you a tad relief. Overall, 'Ullasam' is a below- average movie and as an actor, it is a disappointing film for Shane in his filmography. 2/5