'Manorathangal' OTT Series Review - Few Hits & More Misses

'Manorathangal' OTT Series Review

Cast: Mohanlal, Mammootty, Fahadh Faasil, Pravathy Thiruvithu, Aparna Balamurali, Biju Menon, Harish Uttaman, Joy Mathew. Shanti Krishna, Nedumudi Venu, Nadhiya, Asif Ali, Indras, Kaillash, Naseer Sankranthi and others.

Based On: Short Stories by MT Vasudevan Nair

Creative Director: Aswathy V Nair

Composers: Bijbal, Ramesh Narayan, Rajesh Murugesan, Rahul Raj, Jakes Bejoy, Anshman Mukharjee & Saeed Abbas

Directors: Priyadarshan, Santosh Shivan, Ranith, Jayaraj, Shyam Prasad, Mahesh Narayanan, Ratheesh Ambat and Aswathy.

OTT Platform: ZEE5

Malayalam films always had high quality whether it is their stories or their technical prowess. Now, an anthology series is arriving and it is named 'Manorathangal'. It is streaming on ZEE5 OTT platform. The presence of big stars in Malayalam film industry Mohanlal, Mammootty, Fahadh Faasil and many others are a part of this series. With Kamal's narration, 'Manorathangal' generated a lot of buzz. Let us see how the series turned out.

Story:

'Manorathangal' is a collection of 9 different stories and we will be dwelling into the stories of each one. It is tough to mention each and every storyline without giving away the spoilers.

Analysis:

Olavum Theeravum – It is a segment directed by Priyadarshan starring Mohanlal as Baputty and Mamukkoyya as Mammadikka. The storytelling is enhanced by the monochromatic style and the biggest plus point are the conversations between main characters. However, the romance portions are less impactful and the veteran director Priyadarshan emphasizes more on detailing and technical quality than effective storytelling. It makes an okay watch for people interested in visual storytelling rather than dramatic writing.

Kadugunnava - It features Mohanlal playing the role of a journalist. Set in Sri Lanka. Directed by Ranjith, it is easily one of the best stories in this anthology. Mammootty's top-notch action is a huge plus while the emotional core is well explored. It is quite effective and heartwarming. The effective narration and perfect performances make a strong impact.

Kazhcha revolves around actress Parvathy Thiruvothu who plays the role of Sudha. Her character is quite strong and Parvathy suited this character to the T. She is exceptional and she lifts the entire episode on her shoulders. The storyline addresses many issues like societal pressure and even her loved ones. The other actors too deliver effective performances. Shyamprasad's direction is honest and the visuals stay highlight the story rather than going dominating it.

Shilalikhitham – As Kamal Haasan says in the introduction of this story, “They say the countryside overflows with goodness, but MT shows us that this is not quite true.” Directed by Priyadarshan, it shows how people in the village who claim themselves to be 'responsible' ending spreading the rumours more than trying to help the women who tried to commit suicide. Priyadarshan excels in this episode and the strong performances too helped the storytelling a lot. It is quite impactful and delivers a very good message.

Vilpana – It is one of the weaker episodes in this anthology. The story has a lot of layers to explore but the narration falls flat. It shows the situation of women in the society and how are just pawns in a man's life. Madhoo looks amazing and delivers a commendable performance but the makers failed to do proper lip sync and Aswathy spends more time on conversations rather than dwelling into deeper problems in the story which is quite disappointing.

Sherlock – Set in Alberta, Canada, it is Fahad Faasil's show from start to the end. The concepts of loneliness, identity crisis are dealt with in a mature manner. Nadiya plays the role of sister and it is quite a complex character. The direction is on point and Fahadh's emotive eyes say a lot in this episode. It is easily one the best in this anthology. Whether it is the technical quality or the storytelling, Sherlock is quite brilliant.

Kadalkkaattu – This episode or story deals with the life of a married couple played by Indrajith and Aparna Balamurali. It starts off on a promising note but loses steam midway. It deals with the husband leading a double life and having an affair. But the complexity of relationships has not been dealt in a convincing manner. It has a good message regarding honesty in a relationship but neither the performances nor the director pack a punch. It is just that the episode looks beautiful visually.

Abhyam Theedi Veendum is directed by ace cinematographer Santosh Shivan. Much like other ones, this also has a strong story but the top DOP focused more on his strength which are the visuals and left the potential in the story untapped. It is definitely the most disappointing episode in this anthology. The narrative falls flat despite the haunting music from Jakes Bejoy and good performances.

Swargam Thurakkunna Samayam – It is quite good as the director ably handles the story which sheds light on the selfishness of people who you consider your close ones. It shows how everyone waits for the death of Madhavan Master played by Nedumudi Venu who falls ill. The lack of empathy in characters is well showcased. The story is amazing and provides a lot of drama. Jayaraj delivers in terms of effective narration. The strong performances help in lifting the proceedings too.

On the whole, 'Manorathangal' has some brilliant episodes and a few below-par ones too. It is Kamal Haasan's narration that keeps it all together and it is quite effective. One can say that all the actors in this anthology series did justice to their roles and most of the big names did not disappoint. But it is the storytelling where some episodes makes you feel bored. 'Manorathangal' emphasizes more on drama and people who like drama can have a go at it. But get ready to sit through the slow narration and heavy lag at a few places.

Verdict: 'Manorathangal' – Few Hits & More Misses