Gopan Sivasankaran

LJP has come up with a master stroke. In the realm of Indian cinema, where big budgets, superstar fandom, and formulaic storytelling gains popularity (based on the recent mega hits), LJP has decided to show middle finger to pretty much the entire industry. With a deliberate intent to mock superstardom, fan culture, and the stereotypical elements of Indian blockbusters, Lijo crafts a cinematic experience that challenges the very essence of mainstream filmmaking. Malaikottai Vaaliban stands as a deliberate deviation from the norm, “purposefully” embracing everything considered below average in the typical blockbuster formula – from a silly introduction and a seemingly nonsensical storyline to below-par romance, third-rate dance numbers, and over-the-top stunt scenes. The only element that is above average is the “making” – again exactly mocking the so called blockbusters with huge budgets. It’s a bold statement against the predictable and often formulaic nature of blockbuster cinema. Drawing parallels to Sreenivasan’s Udayananu Tharam, Pellissery traverses the thin line between sarcasm and innocence, leaving the interpretation to the intelligence of the audience. By employing satire in a more brilliant and nuanced manner, he encourages viewers to reflect on the absurdity of the elements typically found in Indian blockbusters, allowing them to discern the layers of mockery beneath the surface. The audacity of the director doesn’t stop with the film itself. Pellissery extends his satire to the industry at large, going beyond the screen by engaging in media interviews and promoting Malaikotai Valiban in the very manner these blockbuster films are conventionally promoted. This meta-commentary adds an extra layer to the film, elevating it from a mere spoof to a thought-provoking critique of the industry’s promotional strategies. The ultimate twist comes in the form of an announced sequel, a move that mimics the typical blockbuster franchise formula. I would bet that he has no plans to proceed with the sequel, further highlighting the mockery of the industry’s tendency to exploit successful formulas until exhaustion. Probably this is a singular attempt in world cinema . Hats off to you, Legend. “no plans to change, no plans to impress” !!