Renowned Malayalam actor Joju George takes a bold step with his directorial debut Pani, which brings a raw, violent revenge drama to the screen. Known for his powerful roles in films like Iratta, Trance, Malik, and Nayattu, George has crafted a hyper-violent film that may not introduce a new storyline but is executed with remarkable intensity and technical finesse.
A Familiar Tale with a Dark Twist
Set in Thrissur, Pani revolves around two young mechanics, Don (played by Sagar Surya) and Siju (Junaiz VP), who accept a contract killing job, hoping to change their lives with a quick ₹10 lakh payout. Their actions, however, set off a chain of violence that disturbs the peaceful town. When Don and Siju’s paths cross with seasoned gangster Giri, played by Joju George himself, the story dives into a dark and bloody underworld. Giri’s wife, Gouri (Abhinaya), and his close-knit gang contribute to the high-stakes drama as they become entangled in the city’s quest for vengeance and justice.
Joju George’s Character Arc and Action-Packed Second Half
While the storyline doesn’t break new ground in the revenge genre, Joju George elevates the material through a gripping portrayal of his character Giri. The first half of the film introduces Giri as a devoted family man reluctantly involved in criminal activities. However, the character takes a sharp turn in the second half, where Joju George displays Giri’s darker side, offering the audience a layered portrayal of a man pushed to his limits.
Both Don and Siju’s complex psychologies are well-articulated, as George gives insight into their motivations and inner conflicts. The action sequences are carefully choreographed, lending a pulsating energy to the second half of the movie. Pani’s intensity and graphic violence may be a bit much for some viewers, but they are arguably fitting for the film’s gritty tone.
Strong Technical Execution
Pani shines in its technical aspects, with exceptional cinematography by Venu ISC and Jino George capturing Thrissur’s authenticity and the murky underworld of its protagonists. Editor Manu Antony delivers a tightly-paced film, while the background score by Vishnu Vijay and Sam CS enhances the film’s tense and emotional moments, adding depth to both chase and action scenes.
Though Pani retreads familiar ground, George’s directorial eye and seasoned approach to character development make it a compelling watch. Fans of hard-hitting crime dramas may appreciate Pani’s relentless energy and Joju George’s successful entry into directing.
Sources By Agencies
