'Pranchiyettan and the Saint' (Malayalam, Satire, 2010)
Director: Ranjith
Cast: Mammootty, Priyamani, Jesse Fox Allen, Innocent and others
Shifting paradigms often work wonders for some. This man is a perfect example. He has kept that spark and energy to offer something novel in the second phase of his career. Starting right from 'Peruvannapurathe Visheshangal', his first scriptwriting venture, he gave hints of a promising talent. With 'Devasuram', his career as a scenarist reached new heights.
But, after 'Naramsimham' and his debut as a director in 'Ravanaprabhu', Ranjith has always surprised the viewer with attempts like 'Nandanam', 'Kayyoppu', 'Thirakkatha' and 'Paleri Manikyam'.
'Pranchiyettan and the Saint', his latest venture, too, has not disappointed the film buffs and is a delight to watch. A beautiful narrative, which will keep you engaged till the end, unfolds a theme with a worthy message wrapped in comic beauty.
Though some of the relationships that are woven into the movie has that cliche ‘Ranjith’ stamp on it, yet it is forgivable considering its larger plot.
The story is set in a spectacular manner in which Pranchiyettan (Mammootty) opens his heart to St Francis. The perfect chemistry between both actors, Mammootty and Jesse Fox Allen, who portrayed the role of the saint, makes the movie a delight to watch.
The storyline revolves around the miseries of an immensely rich man, Cherummal Eenasu Francis aka Pranchiyettan, his utter dissatisfaction arising out of his lack of education, and the immense desire to earn a name for himself.
So, what else is easier nowadays than to arrange an award for himself? Pranchiyettan is more ambitious and wants at least a Padmasree in his kitty.
And, Ranjith cleverly crafts Pranchiyettan in such a way that almost all the activities of the character are a satirical arrow that pricks the ego of the boasting individual, certain factions, and even society as a whole. Mammootty’s experiment with the Thrissur slang adds to the uniqueness of the character who gives a marvellous performance.
The supporting cast, including Innocent, Sidhique, Khushboo, Priyamani, Idavela Babu, Tiny Tom, Biju Menon and Ganapathy have done a commendable job.
The satirical shots in 'Pranchiyettan and the Saint' covers many of the images that one often comes across in life’s reel, be it the basic human nature or political conspiracy.