In the realm of Malayalam cinema, Mammootty has long been a towering figure, known for his ability to captivate audiences with his performances. However, in his latest film, Bazooka, directed by debutant Deeno Dennis, the megastar finds himself navigating a narrative that, despite its intriguing premise, ultimately falls flat.
Bazooka opens with a subtle introduction of Mammootty's character, John Caesar, as he waits at a bus stop, a scene that sets a tone of anticipation. The film quickly escalates into an action-packed thriller, featuring a string of heists orchestrated by a master gamer known as Mr. Mario, whose motives remain shrouded in mystery. The film's plot revolves around Kochi ACP Benjamin Joshua, played by Gautham Vasudev Menon, as he leads a team to crack the case, with Caesar stepping in as a forensic expert to assist the investigation.
While the premise of heists designed as puzzles is promising, the execution leaves much to be desired. Critics have noted that the film's pacing suffers significantly, particularly in the middle sections where the narrative drags. The film attempts to incorporate gaming elements, referencing classic games like Super Mario and Temple Run, but these nods often feel out of place and juvenile, detracting from the overall tension and excitement that a thriller should evoke.
Despite the film's shortcomings, Mammootty's performance remains a highlight. His charisma and screen presence are undeniable, and he is presented in a dapper manner that has been praised by reviewers. Cinematographer Nimish Ravi captures Mammootty’s essence beautifully, although some scenes suffer from excessive close-ups that detract from the overall cinematic experience. The original score by Saeed Abbas also receives commendation, managing to elevate some of the film's more mundane moments.
However, the film's dialogue and character interactions have been criticized for being tedious and poorly written. The exchanges between Caesar and Sunny Varghese, played by Hakim Shajahan, are particularly noted for their lack of substance, often feeling like filler rather than meaningful contributions to the plot. Critics argue that the writing fails to engage the audience, making it difficult to invest in the characters or their fates.
Many reviewers have pointed out that the film's ambition is undermined by its lack of cohesion. While the initial setup hints at a complex narrative involving criminal masterminds and intricate puzzles, the execution feels haphazard, leaving viewers confused rather than intrigued. The film's attempt to blend high-tech elements with traditional crime storytelling results in a disjointed experience that fails to deliver on its promises.
Furthermore, Gautham Vasudev Menon’s portrayal of ACP Benjamin Joshua has been met with mixed reviews. Critics describe his performance as wooden and lacking the depth required for such a pivotal role. His character's inability to effectively lead the investigation adds to the film's overall sense of frustration, as the audience watches the police struggle to connect the dots in a plot that seems to offer clues as easily as it obscures them.
As the film progresses, some moments shine through, particularly in the final act, where the pace picks up and the narrative begins to coalesce. The last thirty minutes are packed with twists and revelations that may redeem the film in the eyes of some viewers, but many critics argue that it comes too late to salvage the overall experience.
Despite its flaws, Bazooka does manage to entertain on some levels, particularly for fans of Mammootty who may appreciate his unwavering commitment to exploring new roles. However, for those seeking a tightly woven thriller that capitalizes on its unique premise, the film falls short. The combination of a promising concept and lackluster execution leaves audiences wondering what could have been.
In the end, Bazooka serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by filmmakers in balancing ambition with execution. While the film attempts to carve out a niche in the crowded landscape of Malayalam cinema, it ultimately struggles to find its footing, leaving viewers with a sense of what might have been.
