As the title suggests, the period action drama is set in the backdrop of the duo-decennial festival of Mamangam which used to be held at the banks of the Bharathapuzha in Thirunavaya during the 17th century. Mamangam was celebrated extravagantly by the Hindu chiefs of Thirunavaya and the Zamorins of Kozhikode. The storyline of the film revolves around the Chaver (suicide warriors) plotting to overthrow the Zamorin rulers.
Mammootty plays the role of Chandroth Valiya Panikkar, the turncoat of the Chandroth family, who is believed to have abandoned his purpose of killing the Zamorin and fled the battleground. Mammootty, though not at his best, has worked hard to do justice to his role. Unni Mukundan's portrayal of Chandroth Panikkar can be considered one of the actor's best performances till date, essaying the brave and determined character of a Chaver effortlessly.
Prachi Tehlan, Iniya and Manikandan have given their best with their memorable and significant characters. Siddique, who portrays the villainous character of Valluvakonathiri, has given an exemplary performance as always. Suresh Krishna and Manikuttan have also done justice to their respective roles. Manikuttan, who plays the role of Moyin alongside Unni Mukundan, and Achuthan steal the show during the climax. Even in the midst of an ensemble of experienced actors, all eyes will remain fixed on child actor Achuthan who has delivered a stellar debut performance. He plays the role of Chandroth Chanthunni, the fearless nephew of Chandroth Panikkar. Kaniha, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Sudev Nair, Neeraj Madhav, Idavela Babu, Tarun Arora, Mohan Sharma and Anu Sithara have done justice to their characters.
ALSO READ: 'Mamangam': Art director Mohandas on recreating an era
Besides Achuthan's acting, what makes this movie worth a watch is the extravagant set which was erected on an 18 acre plot in Kochi. Art director Mohandas deserves special mention for his precise and beautiful recreation of an era. The music by composer M. Jayachandran could have been more engaging.
The most noteworthy scene of this movie is the fight sequence in its climax. This scene that plays out on a spectacular set that took almost 150 days to build, is worth the wait through the first half that is a drag. For history buffs and those looking for an entertainer, this Mamangam is worth a one-time watch.
Movie: Mamangam
Director: M. Padmakumar
Cast: Mammootty, Unni Mukundan, Siddique, Kaniha, Prachi Tehlan, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Sudev Nair, Neeraj Madhav
Rating : 3/5
