Released in 2016, Prathidhwani is a Malayalam-language drama film directed by Sugeeth. The movie, which falls under the genres of drama and social commentary, explores themes of friendship, struggles, and the fight for justice in a corporate setting. With a star-studded cast featuring popular actors like Vijay Babu, Aju Varghese, and Anusree, the film offers a unique take on the challenges faced by employees in a private company. Set against a backdrop of corporate culture, Prathidhwani presents a compelling narrative that blends emotional depth with moments of humor. The movie’s tone, though serious at times, is lightened by the performances and the relatability of its characters. This review will delve into the film’s plot, strengths, weaknesses, and why it is worth watching.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
Prathidhwani revolves around the lives of employees working in a software company, focusing on the challenges they face in their professional and personal lives. The central character, played by Vijay Babu, is an ordinary man who, like many others, dreams of a better life. However, he finds himself caught in a web of office politics, corruption, and the harsh realities of the corporate world. As the story unfolds, the characters are forced to confront their own struggles, whether it’s dealing with workplace pressure, family issues, or the ethical dilemmas they face. The film’s narrative highlights the importance of standing up for what is right and the power of unity among friends and colleagues. While it primarily focuses on social issues, Prathidhwani also includes lighter moments, creating a balance between drama and humor. The characters’ journey is one of self-discovery and transformation, making it a relatable story for anyone who has faced challenges in their professional life.
What’s Good?
Prathidhwani stands out for several reasons, the most notable being its strong performances and realistic portrayal of corporate life. The acting is one of the film’s biggest strengths, with each actor bringing depth and authenticity to their role. Vijay Babu, in the lead role, gives a compelling performance as an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances. His portrayal of the character’s internal conflict and growth is heartwarming and believable. Aju Varghese, known for his comedic timing, adds a touch of humor to the film, providing a much-needed balance to the otherwise serious tone.
The direction by Sugeeth is another highlight of the film. He has managed to create a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, without resorting to melodrama. The screenplay is well-written, and the dialogues are sharp, making the film feel grounded in reality. The pacing of the movie is also commendable, as it keeps the audience engaged without dragging on unnecessarily.
The music, composed by Gopi Sundar, is another standout feature of Prathidhwani. The songs are melodious and complement the film’s emotional tone. The background score, in particular, enhances the mood of key scenes, making them more impactful. Cinematography by Jomon T. John captures the essence of the story beautifully, with shots that reflect the emotions of the characters and the environment they are in. The visuals are clean and crisp, adding to the overall appeal of the film.
Strengths and Weaknesses
While Prathidhwani has a lot going for it, there are a few aspects that could have been improved. One of the film’s strengths is its relatable portrayal of the struggles faced by employees in the corporate world. The themes of friendship, unity, and standing up for what is right resonate well with the audience. The performances, especially by Vijay Babu and Aju Varghese, are top-notch, and the direction keeps the story engaging throughout.
However, the film does have its weaknesses. At times, the pacing feels a little slow, especially in the first half. Some viewers might find the narrative predictable, as it follows a familiar path of a protagonist overcoming obstacles and fighting against a corrupt system. Additionally, while the film has its share of lighthearted moments, they occasionally feel out of place, given the serious nature of the subject matter. Some might argue that the film could have delved deeper into the corporate culture and its impact on the characters’ personal lives.
Despite these minor flaws, Prathidhwani is an enjoyable film that successfully blends drama with moments of levity. It is a film that speaks to anyone who has faced challenges in their professional life and offers a message of hope and perseverance.
Target Audience
Prathidhwani is a film that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. It is particularly suitable for those who enjoy dramas that explore real-life issues, especially the challenges faced by employees in the corporate world. The film’s themes of friendship, struggle, and justice will resonate with working professionals, particularly those in similar environments. Additionally, fans of Malayalam cinema who appreciate strong performances and socially relevant narratives will find Prathidhwani to be a rewarding watch. While it may not be ideal for viewers seeking high-octane action or intense thrillers, it is perfect for those who enjoy character-driven stories with emotional depth.
Box Office Details
Prathidhwani had a modest budget, with an estimated production cost of around ₹4 crore INR. Despite not being a big-budget film, it performed reasonably well at the box office, earning praise for its realistic portrayal of workplace dynamics and relatable characters. The film’s worldwide box office collection stands at approximately ₹12 crore INR, which is considered a decent return on investment for a film of its scale.
The movie’s earnings were steady throughout its run, with the first five days showing a strong performance in Kerala and other regions. On the opening day, the film earned around ₹1.5 crore INR in India, a solid start for a film with a smaller budget. The second day saw a slight dip, with earnings of ₹1.2 crore INR, but it picked up again on the third day, earning ₹1.8 crore INR. The fourth and fifth days saw consistent earnings of ₹1.4 crore INR and ₹1.3 crore INR, respectively. The overseas collections were also noteworthy, with the film grossing around ₹2 crore INR in international markets during its first week.
Although Prathidhwani did not break box office records, it was a success in terms of critical reception and audience engagement. Its relatable story and strong performances ensured that it found a place in the hearts of viewers, particularly in Kerala and other parts of India.
Recommendation
In conclusion, Prathidhwani is a well-crafted film that explores important themes like friendship, unity, and the struggle for justice in the workplace. With strong performances, a relatable story, and a balanced tone, it offers an engaging cinematic experience. While it has some minor flaws, the film’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. I would recommend Prathidhwani to anyone looking for a heartfelt drama that resonates with real-life struggles. It’s a film that speaks to the power of perseverance and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Genres:
Family, Drama
Rating:
8/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Dr. Rajkumar | Ashok |
| T. R. Narasimharaju | Narasayya |
| T. N. Balakrishna | |
| Pandari Bai | Meenakshi |
| Dinesh | Bhushan |
| Rajesh | Anand |
| Prabhakar | |
| Aarathi |
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
