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Mura, directed by Muhammad Musthafa, is a raw and intense gangster drama that brings together the themes of revenge, friendship, and unflinching loyalty. Known for his debut directorial masterpiece, Kappela (2020), Musthafa ventures into a blood-soaked narrative with Mura, captivating the audience with its gritty storyline and brilliant performances.
Plot Overview
Set against the backdrop of Thiruvananthapuram, the movie follows the lives of four unemployed friends—Anandu (Hridhu Haroon), Manu (Yadhu Krishnan), Manaf (Anujith), and Saji (Jobin Das)—who find themselves drawn into the perilous world of crime. Under the influence of Ani, a seasoned gangster played effortlessly by Suraj Venjaramoodu, the friends take on a dangerous assignment in Madurai. However, their plan to exit the underworld after completing the task unravels, plunging them deeper into chaos and violence.
Performances That Shine
The heart of Mura lies in its performances, with Musthafa crafting characters that feel authentic and relatable. Hridhu Haroon delivers a standout performance as the fiery leader of the group, channeling his experience from projects like All We Imagine As Light. His portrayal of Anandu—a character grappling with anger and loyalty—is both compelling and layered.
Equally impressive are the supporting cast members, Yadhu Krishnan, Anujith, and Jobin Das, who bring a natural charm and credibility to their roles. Their familiarity with the Thiruvananthapuram dialect adds a unique flavor, immersing viewers into the regional essence of the story.
Suraj Venjaramoodu, as Ani, dominates the screen with his nuanced portrayal of a gangster who is both ruthless and calculating. Meanwhile, Maala Parvathi surprises as Rema, Ani’s boss, breaking stereotypes in a male-dominated genre. Though her prosthetic teeth may seem out of place, her commanding presence leaves a lasting impact.
High-Octane Action and Realism
Mura takes pride in its raw, unfiltered action sequences. From gripping chase scenes to realistic fight choreography, the film delivers adrenaline-pumping moments that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. While the intensity of violence might be overwhelming for some, it aligns with the film’s gritty tone and stakes.
The narrative also explores camaraderie and loyalty among the friends, adding depth to the story. Actors Krish Hassan and Vigneshwar Suresh, as associates of the gang, further enrich the plot with their convincing performances.
Room for Improvement
Despite its strengths, Mura has its shortcomings. Kani Kusruti’s character feels underutilized, leaving viewers questioning her limited screen presence. Additionally, certain violent scenes could have been toned down without compromising the film’s impact.
Final Verdict
Mura stands out as a bold and gripping revenge drama, driven by exceptional performances and authentic storytelling. Muhammad Musthafa solidifies his position as a director who knows how to extract the best from his cast and create compelling narratives.
For fans of Malayalam cinema and gritty gangster dramas, Mura is a must-watch. The film’s exploration of friendship, betrayal, and redemption, coupled with its high-stakes action, ensures a thrilling cinematic experience.
With its unique combination of realism and emotional depth, Mura is a powerful addition to the Malayalam film industry’s repertoire.