The year 2024 has been exceptional for the Malayalam film industry, with hits like Rifle Club leading the way. Released on December 19, this film has impressed everyone who watched it. So, what makes this movie so special? Let’s dive in!
Story: Set in 1991, the story follows romantic star Shajahan who wants to try his hand at action movies. To prepare for his role, he joins a Rifle Club, run by a family led by Lonappan and Avaran.
Meanwhile, in Mangalore, a gun dealer, Dayanand, faces a crisis when his younger son accidentally kills someone while trying to kiss his girlfriend. The son, Ali, hides at the Rifle Club. Dayanand, with his gang and guns, heads there seeking revenge. The rest of the story revolves around how the Rifle Club stands up to Dayanand’s gang and who emerges victorious in this gun battle.
Performances: Dileesh Pothan, usually seen in character or negative roles, shines in a positive role here, with humor adding to his charm. Vani Vishwanath stands out as a strong woman, playing her role with great conviction.
Despite the film having over 15 characters, actors like Darshana Rajendran, Surabhi Lakshmi, Unnimaya Prasad, and Vishnu Agasthya make a strong impression. Anurag Kashyap debuts as a villain in Malayalam cinema, delivering an outstanding performance, mixing Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada to create a unique style. Vineeth Kumar is also notable in a key role.
Technical Aspects: Director and cinematographer Aashiq Abu focused heavily on visuals, making every frame and lighting perfect. The action scenes are brilliantly designed, with a Hollywood-style Western theme bringing a fresh feel to the simple storyline.
Unlike many films where women are limited to glamour or dialogue delivery, Rifle Club gives them pivotal roles, especially in the action sequences, making it a refreshing change. However, the storytelling could have been slightly more innovative to match the level of the action blocks.
The music and production design elevate the film further. The club’s setting and the carefully chosen locations add authenticity, while the art department’s attention to detail, especially with guns, enhances realism. Action choreography by Supreme Sundar is logical and impactful throughout.
Analysis: Instead of lengthy character introductions, the film focuses on establishing its core content, keeping the audience hooked. Strong performances by Vani Vishwanath, Dileesh Pothan, and Anurag Kashyap, coupled with Aashiq Abu’s cinematography and Supreme Sundar’s action choreography, make Rifle Club one of the best Malayalam films of 2024.
Verdict: Rifle Club is a stylish action saga that stands out for its unique storytelling, strong performances, and well-executed action sequences. With its focus on content-driven narration and a refreshing portrayal of women in pivotal roles, the film leaves a lasting impression. Though the storyline is simple, the visual grandeur and engaging action make it a worthy addition to the best Malayalam films of 2024. A must-watch for action lovers and fans of innovative filmmaking!
Bottom Line: Visually stunning and action-packed film
Rating: 3/5
