The year 2018 was a watershed moment for the southern Indian state of Kerala, as it witnessed one of the most devastating natural disasters in its history—the Kerala floods. Amidst this real-life catastrophe, director Jude Anthany Joseph weaves a gripping tale of survival and humanity in the Malayalam film “2018.” Starring Tovino Thomas in the lead role, this recently released cinematic gem has not only captivated audiences in Kerala but has also made waves globally. Now, with the Telugu version hitting screens, it’s the perfect time to delve into this engaging survival thriller.
2018 – Plot and Characterization :
“2018” takes us on a compelling journey through the harrowing backdrop of the 2018 Kerala floods, introducing a diverse ensemble of characters whose lives become intricately entwined in the face of this catastrophic natural disaster.
At the heart of the narrative is Anup (Tovino Thomas), a former soldier grappling with a profound fear of death. Anup’s character arc forms the emotional core of the film, as he transitions from a man plagued by his mortality to a valiant figure determined to defy the odds and save lives during the calamity.
Alongside Anup, we encounter Mathachan (Lal) and his son Winston (Narain), humble fishermen whose livelihoods are forever altered by the relentless floodwaters. Their resilience and determination to help those in need underscore the film’s overarching themes of heroism and compassion.
Adding depth to the character roster is Koshy (Aju Varghese), a taxi driver catering to tourists, who, despite his ordinary profession, emerges as an unlikely hero during the crisis. Ramesh (Vineeth Srinivasan), an IT professional in Dubai, grapples with the strains in his relationship with his wife in India, and his journey mirrors the emotional turmoil experienced by many.
Further amplifying the film’s multi-dimensional narrative is Sethupathi (Kalayirasan), a truck driver hailing from Tamil Nadu, who finds himself embroiled in a dangerous mission to transport explosives to Kerala amidst the chaos of the floods.
“2018” thrives on its meticulously crafted characters, each with their unique struggles, and Director Jude Anthany Joseph adeptly weaves their stories into a compelling and emotionally charged narrative. While the film eschews convoluted twists, it excels in making these characters the driving force of the story, engaging the audience in their profound and deeply relatable emotional journeys.
Performances and Cinematography :
Tovino Thomas’s decision to embrace a role that defies traditional protagonist norms deserves not only praise but also admiration. His portrayal of Anup, a man haunted by an overwhelming fear of death, is a testament to his versatility as an actor. Thomas masterfully navigates Anup’s character arc, effectively transitioning from vulnerability to becoming a beacon of courage, determined to save lives amidst the chaos of the Kerala floods. His performance anchors the film’s emotional journey and resonates deeply with the audience.
Lal, in his role as Mathachan, emerges as a standout performer. He embodies the essence of a humble fisherman, whose unwavering spirit rises to the occasion, transforming him into an unsung hero amidst the deluge. Lal’s portrayal is nuanced and heartfelt, adding a layer of authenticity to the character that captivates viewers.
Narain and Kalayirasan further contribute to the film’s emotional depth with their compelling performances. Narain, as Winston, Mathachan’s son, brings a sense of youthful determination and resilience to his character. Kalayirasan, portraying Sethupathi, the truck driver thrust into perilous circumstances, leaves a lasting impact with his portrayal of a character facing a moral dilemma. Their performances enhance the film’s rich tapestry of characters.
“2018” is not just a triumph in storytelling but also a visual spectacle, largely owing to the exceptional cinematography by Akhil George. His work captures the essence of the Kerala floods with precision, creating a tense and immersive atmosphere. George’s use of lighting and framing amplifies the raw emotions and turmoil experienced by the characters amidst the floodwaters. The cinematography becomes a character in itself, lending depth to the narrative and engaging the audience on a visceral level.
Nobin Paul’s background score deserves special mention for its transformative effect on the film. It seamlessly complements the narrative, intensifying the emotions on screen and forging a deep connection between the audience and the characters. The music becomes a guiding force, underscoring the highs and lows of the characters’ journeys. The synergy between the visuals and the music is a testament to the film’s technical prowess, elevating “2018” into a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Praise and Critique :
“2018” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in cinema. It delivers an undeniable and emotionally charged cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Director Jude Anthany Joseph’s storytelling prowess shines through as he skillfully crafts a narrative that transcends mere survival, delving into the very essence of humanity. The film’s remarkable ability to connect viewers with its characters and their harrowing struggles is nothing short of commendable.
One notable critique, however, lies in the film’s limited exploration of the role of the government and media during the 2018 Kerala floods. While the director’s primary focus is on promoting themes of humanity, compassion, and individual heroism, a more comprehensive look at the contributions and challenges faced by these institutions during the crisis could have added depth and nuance to the storytelling. This would have provided a more holistic view of the disaster’s impact on society as a whole.
Another aspect deserving attention is the underutilization of Aparna Balamurali, a recognized face in the film industry. Her limited screen presence leaves the audience yearning for more. The director missed an opportunity to incorporate additional scenes that could have amplified her character’s significance in the plot. Aparna Balamurali’s talent and potential could have been harnessed further to enhance the overall narrative.
In terms of narrative structure, the film’s first half, while character-driven and emotionally resonant, may potentially confuse some viewers. It places greater emphasis on individual character arcs than on advancing the central plot. This approach, while effective in drawing viewers into the lives of the characters, may leave some feeling that the story lacks a clear direction in its initial stages. It’s in the second half where the overarching narrative gains more prominence and cohesiveness.
Furthermore, some supporting characters, such as Tanvi Ram and Gauthami Nair, while impeccably acted, do not significantly impact the central storyline. This omission may lead to viewers feeling somewhat unsatisfied, particularly if they anticipate a more substantial contribution to the overarching narrative from these characters.
However, it’s important to note that these shortcomings, while valid critiques are relatively minor when considering the film as a whole. “2018” compensates for these imperfections with its profound emotional depth and intensity. Audiences are easily drawn into the lives of the characters, forging a deep emotional connection with their struggles and triumphs. The film’s portrayal of the resilience of ordinary individuals faced with an extraordinary crisis resonates on a universal level, reminding us of the extraordinary heroism that can emerge from everyday people during times of adversity.
One area where the film could have further excelled is in building suspense around the impending damage to the dam. A few additional scenes related to this impending disaster could have heightened the tension and anticipation, making the storyline even more engaging. While the film’s focus is on human drama, the inclusion of such suspenseful elements could have added an extra layer of excitement to the narrative.
Technical Brilliance and Production :
Jude Anthany Joseph deserves an enthusiastic round of applause for his exceptional work in crafting a narrative that authentically delves into the fears, resilience, and raw human emotions faced by individuals during a natural calamity. His screenplay, particularly in the second half of “2018,” stands as a masterclass in portraying the gamut of emotions experienced by the people of Kerala amidst the devastating floods. Joseph’s ability to convey the desperation, courage, and selflessness of the characters is truly commendable, creating a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant experience for the audience.
From a technical standpoint, “2018” is nothing short of a marvel. Cinematographer Akhil George’s contribution to the film is undeniably significant. His visual storytelling skills bring the intensity and vulnerability of the characters to life on the screen. George’s adept use of lighting and framing adds a layer of depth to the storytelling, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the film. His camera work effectively captures the chaos, devastation, and humanity amidst the floodwaters, elevating the film’s impact to a visceral level.
The role of music in “2018” cannot be overstated, and composer Nobin Paul’s background score is a pivotal element in the film’s success. Paul’s musical compositions seamlessly intertwine with the narrative, effectively underscoring the emotional highs and lows experienced by the characters. The music becomes a character in itself, guiding the audience through the rollercoaster of emotions that define the film. It strengthens the viewer’s connection with the characters, making their trials and triumphs all the more poignant.
While the film’s editing, handled by Chaman Chakko, is generally praiseworthy, there is room for a bit more trimming, particularly in the first half. Tightening the pacing in certain segments could have resulted in an even more engrossing and tightly woven narrative. Nevertheless, Chakko’s work ensures a coherent and cohesive storytelling structure throughout the film.
The production values in “2018” are indeed commendable. The film’s visual effects (VFX) work plays a crucial role in creating the thrilling atmosphere of a disaster scenario. The seamless integration of VFX enhances the overall realism of the film, immersing the audience deeper into the chaos and devastation caused by the Kerala floods.
In “2018,” these technical elements work in harmony to create a cinematic experience that is both visually captivating and emotionally resonant. The film’s technical brilliance and production values elevate it beyond the ordinary, enriching the storytelling and ensuring that the audience is fully immersed in the world of the characters and the catastrophic events that unfold.
In conclusion, “2018” is a well-crafted and emotionally charged film that leaves a lasting impact on its viewers. The outstanding performances by Tovino Thomas, Lal, and Narain, coupled with the brilliant score and cinematography, are the film’s strongest assets. Despite a few minor shortcomings, the movie’s emotional resonance and ability to immerse the audience in its narrative make it a must-watch.
Director Jude Anthany Joseph’s portrayal of humanity and resilience in the face of a natural disaster is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. “2018” reminds us that, in times of crisis, it is the human spirit and our willingness to stand up for one another that truly matter.
So, without a doubt, “2018” is a film worth watching, and it serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in cinema. It invites you to embark on a journey with its characters, experience their struggles, and ultimately, celebrate their triumphs—a journey that is sure to leave you moved and inspired.
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