2024 may not have been the most remarkable year for Malayalam cinema, especially when compared to the exceptional standards set by previous years, but the industry still managed to weave its magic on the silver screen. Innovative storytelling, thought-provoking ideas, captivating music, and outstanding performances were the hallmarks of this year's cinematic offerings.
Reflecting on the cinematic highlights, here we celebrate the best performances of 2024 where talent and dedication brought unforgettable characters to life. Prithviraj Sukumaran, known for his performance as Najeem in Aadujeevitham, earnestly displayed unwavering dedication and physical transformation. His portrayal of an immigrant forced to work as a goat tender under harsh conditions was remarkable. There was much to commend about his physical transformation, as Prithviraj managed to shed weight and depict the harsh realities of his character's existence convincingly. Despite some critics feeling his emotional investment was less convincing, the sheer magnitude of his external transformation was praiseworthy, securing his spot on this list. "The sheer magnitude of his physical transformation... earns him a well-deserved spot on this list," notes the review.
Emerging newcomer Zarin Shihab left her mark as Anjali, the central character from Aattam, who juggles the conflicts within her drama troupe. Facing inappropriate incidents and realizing her boyfriend's betrayal, her portrayal was both poignant and powerful. Zarin's radiant energy captured the essence of Anjali, particularly when confronting her colleagues after being mistreated. A review remarked, "Zarin is raw, real, and utterly captivating," confirming her talent and impact on the story.
Jyothirmayi’s performance as Reethu in Bougainville revealed her capacity to demonstrate fragility and emotional turmoil through her character's retrograde amnesia. 'Neerad masterfully captures Reethu’s minute expressions and confusions,' mentions the review, highlighting how Jyothirmayi's fierce embodiment of vulnerability drew audiences to her plight.
Urvashi and Parvathy Thiruvothu's performances meld beautifully as they navigate complex family dynamics, unpacking the expectations tied to their respective roles. Urvashi captures the dignity and depth of Leelamma, epitomizing potent silence. The dual aspects of their performances engage the audience as they explore themes of gender norms and personal growth. 'The two actors engage in a compelling dual performance,' the review observes.
Vijayaraghavan’s portrayal of Appu Pillai, the retired army officer grappling with bitterness and dementia, captivates through the subtlety with which he expresses the depths of his character's emotional states. "It’s a performance... conveying the turmoil beneath the gruff exterior," states the review, lauding the powerful nuances of his performance.
Meanwhile, Fahadh Faasil's role as Ranga in Aavesham showcased his ability to traverse amusing and poignant territory, creating intricacies within his character's personality. His dynamic oscillation between different emotional spectrums impressed audiences at every turn. "What’s endearing are those fleeting moments of humour..." the review indicates, demonstrating Fahadh's ability to balance seriousness and levity within the character.
Finally, Mammootty’s entrance as Koduman Potti in Bramayugam turned out to be nothing short of iconic, showcasing masterful subversion of traditional cinematic expectations. "His entrance was masterful," asserts the review, emphasizing the depth and complexity he brought to the character.
Shifting the focus to action, 2024 has also delivered outstanding fight scenes. Each fight brings audiences to their feet, marking moments of excitement and artistry. Take, for example, the climactic knife fight from Dune: Part Two. The stakes are exhilarating, and Villeneuve’s film culminates in Paul's battle against Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen. The choreography is brutal, building tension and uncertainty—an experience where every moment feels life or death. "The choreography is suitably brutal... the outcome of the duel is totally unpredictable," the review describes.
Likewise, the battle of Lucius against Macrinus in Gladiator II draws the audience through shocking turns, returning to the visceral feel of the original franchise. This showdown culminates through symbolism and gore, enhancing its depth. Discussion on these sequences always highlights the whetted curiosity and engagement they evoke.
Elisabeth and Sue's cage match from The Substance reflects the creative resurgence of fight choreography, giving twist and turns reminiscent of old kung fu flicks. The infusion of such high-stakes drama within unique genres continues to reinvigorate audiences. Paul and Feyd’s fight juxtaposes fluidity with violence, much like Deadpool and Wolverine’s battles, where both teams inject humor and excitement, producing thrilling action sequences along the way. "It’s one of the greatest—and most difficult-to-watch—fight scenes of 2024," concludes the exhilarating reviews of Boy Kills World and its unflinching approach to violence.
Overall, from remarkable performances to breathtaking battle sequences, 2024 has gifted the cinematic world with unforgettable moments, reinforcing the potential and creativity inherent to storytelling across genres. Such explorations will undoubtedly leave audiences yearning for what lies next on the horizon.
