Rescue Operation Turns Friendship Saga: ‘Manjummel Boys’ Takes Audiences on an Emotional Rollercoaster

The sophomore film ‘Manjummel Boys’ by director Chidambaram, known for his critically acclaimed ‘Jan.E.Man’, embarks on a journey that pays homage to Kamal Haasan‘s ‘Gunaa.’ Opening with a sense of adventure, the film follows a group of carefree men delving into an enthralling cave, sparking an expedition that turns into a fight for survival.

While ‘127 Hours‘ depicted a solitary struggle for existence, ‘Manjummel Boys’ presents an ode to friendship. Through its poignant screenplay and heartfelt narration, the movie strikes a chord with viewers, drawing them into the lives of its central characters.

Unlike high-octane thrillers, ‘Manjummel Boys’ maintains a realistic approach even as Subhash finds himself trapped in a 900-foot cave. The lens captures the essence of the situation without resorting to exaggerated depth or fear. Though the pace slackens in the second half, the climax revitalizes the essence of friendship, miracles, and overcoming challenges.

Soubin Shahir shines in his role as Kuttan, exuding a mix of helplessness and despair that tugs at the heartstrings. Sreenath Bhasi undergoes a remarkable physical transformation, although more attention to detail in character development could have enhanced his portrayal. The ‘Jan.E.Man’ ensemble, including Balu Varghese and Ganapathy, make small yet impactful appearances in the film. Newcomer Chanthu, son of veteran actor Salim Kumar, makes a noteworthy debut with a pivotal role in the story.

Sushin Shyam’s music enriches the narrative, complementing the storytelling with subtle yet effective melodies. The integration of the timeless ‘Kanmani Anbodu’ and Kamal Haasan’s dialogues adds depth to the film. Ajayan Challissery’s production design and Shyju Khalid’s cinematography elevate the movie, crafting a captivating tale of camaraderie amidst the backdrop of a gripping survival drama.