Filmdom is notorious for typecasting actors and actresses. And once a hero or a heroine is straitjacketed in a particular image, it is well-nigh impossible to break the mould. It takes a giant leap of faith to do that.
Mammooty has managed that in Raajamanikyam. He has announced his arrival as a mass hero who can do all kinds of antics to keep the front-benchers tickled.For a man, who was seen too 'straight' in his choice of roles, this is indeed a revelation ---- for him as well as others. He is delightful in the role of rustic buffalo dealer. He opens new vistas in his characterization and shows that talent is permanent and image is a myth.
The rambunctious country story unravels around Raajamanikyam (Mammooty) who, with his band of merry acolytes, goes out of the way to help unite the son and daughter (Manoj K Jeyan and Sindhu Menon) of his stepfather (Sai Kumar).
Raajamanikyam and his gang Raju (Rahman),Varkichan (Bheeman Raju) and Dasappan (Salim Kumar) come from Bellary to the village of Udayon Koil to set right the complicated web of relationships and rivalries.
The story has nothing much to offer. But Mammooty has plenty to. He shows a spontaneous style and his raucous exchanges bring the house down. Be it the Thiruvanathapuram lingo or coarse approach of a buffalo dealer, Mammooty has brought them out with obvious relish.
Sai Kumar as his father is typical of himself. Manoj K Jeyan is confidence personified in his character. Rahman too does an energetic portrayal.
The music is on expected lines --- lot of mass numbers.
Shaheed's script makes the film work. There are enough twists in the plot to keep you engrossed. Anwar Rashid, the debutant director, shows he has a way with the masses.
Raajamanikyam indeed is a man of the masses.
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