Mohanlal's 'Barroz': A monumental work that exceeds expectations
Mohanlal has created a fantasy drama that will appeal to all ages for different reasons.
Mohanlal has created a fantasy drama that will appeal to all ages for different reasons.
Mohanlal has created a fantasy drama that will appeal to all ages for different reasons.
Versatile actor Mohanlal has upped his game in his new role as director in this mythological fantasy, Barroz: Guardian of Treasures. What may have been marketed as a movie for kids far exceeds expectations, delivering almost on all fronts.
The fascinating storyline explores the myth of a hidden treasure protected by Lord Da Gama's loyal keeper, Barroz, played by Mohanlal, for centuries. The time has come for Barroz to be set free, but only until he hands over the keys of the treasure to Da Gama's rightful heir. Isa, the 13-year-old daughter of a business magnate who plans to demolish the palace where the treasure is guarded, lands in Goa during the full moon along with her father to attend a bid for the palace.
What works for the film is how well the makers have blended two of the timelines, weaving together a mix of fantasy and reality through the eyes of a teenager and a 389-year-old ghost who remains chained inside a room guarding the treasure and awaiting redemption.
The pace of the storyline may be slow at times but that is expected of a film that depends largely on storytelling meant to cater to a younger audience.
It is also interesting to see a Malayali filmmaker create a world with a bunch of Portugese-speaking people set in a different space and timeline, unlike 'My Dear Kuttichathan', that was more regional and rooted to Kerala.
Mohanlal is charming as the bald-headed Barroz, who is guided by the friendly voodoo doll, a live-action character present throughout the story. The faithful voodoo doll brings comical relief to the movie, reminding you of those fun sidekick characters ever present in Disney movies.
The performances of all the leading stars, including Maya Rao West, who plays the protagonist, Isa, are praiseworthy. Along with the storyline, the execution and technical brilliance of the movie stand out. The computer graphics are top-notch, and so is the cinematography by Santhosh Sivan.
Mohanlal has kept a strong rein on the scenes, ensuring none feel over the top or unnecessary. The music by Lydian Nadhaswaram,Fernando Guerreiro, Miguel Guerreiro and score by Mark Killian was under utilised in the film. Despite some of the flaws, 'Barroz' is a welcome change at the theatres, which is currently ruled by action and violence-heavy movies. What Mohanlal has created is a monumental fantasy drama that will appeal to the family audience, this Christmas holidays.