Is Puzhu Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2022)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Drama, Thriller cinema, the 2022 release of Puzhu stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Kuttan, an annoyingly disciplined and a bigoted upper-caste retired police officer, is living with his son Kichu. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama, Thriller are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Kuttan, an annoyingly disciplined and a bigoted upper-caste retired police officer, is living with his son Kichu. After Bharati, Kuttan’s younger sister, falls in love with lower caste Kuttappan and elopes with him against her family’s wish, the attempts on Kuttan's life increases and his paranoia make the lives around him miserable."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. In Puzhu, we see Mammootty utilizing their established screen presence to carry the story forward. It is a solid, workmanlike performance that serves the director's vision without overshadowing the larger narrative goals.

The direction by Ratheena is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 122 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Puzhu truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Drama, Thriller, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6.7/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Puzhu explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2022 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Ratheena respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Puzhu serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Mammootty or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Puzhu is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.