Review of Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil, which translates to ‘At the Entrance of Guruvayoor Temple’, is about a young guy named Vinu, portrayed by Basil Joseph, who faces a sequence of terrible occurrences and finds up marrying someone other than his planned wife on his wedding day. The film promises to be a lighthearted entertainment.
This is a Malayalam comedy-drama directed by Vipin Das and written b Deepu Pradeep. Produced by Prithviraj Productions and E4 Entertainment, it stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, Basil Joseph, Nikhila Vimal, and Anaswara Rajan and marks Yogi Babu’s debut in Malayalam cinema. The film premiered in cinemas on May 16, 2024.
Just as the trailer promised, Vipin Das’ ”Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil’ has a distinct humour which the audience will get used to in the first half an hour. As we get warmed up to Vinu and Anand, we are left wanting more of their conversation, which will leave you laughing. Vinu and Anand’s conversations are so organic and hilarious that they make up for a spectacular first half. The director builds up the story in a brilliant fashion with all the twists and turns coming through at perfect intervals.
₹3.50 Crore plus opening anticipated for #GuruvayoorAmbalaNadayil at KBO.!
Seems like #PrithvirajSukumaran is making 2024 his year.! pic.twitter.com/7gX68tHMKV
— What The Fuss (@W_T_F_Channel) May 16, 2024
The film’s second half is what brings down ‘Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil’ after its perfectly crafted first half. The conflict following the intermission becomes wafer-thin. And the filmmaker introduces multiple characters leading up to a chaotic end, which is the wedding of Vinu and Anjali. While the sequence is executed tastefully, it fails to make a significant impact, partly due to the repetitive comedy and some unfunny sequences that fall short of the first half’s standard.
It is Basil Joseph who plays the underconfident hero, shouldering this movie. His minute expressions effortlessly propel the story forward. Additionally, it’s refreshing to see Prithviraj Sukumaran in a comedic role, which works to some extent. While Nikhila Vimal’s character is integral to the story, she is moved like a pawn rather than possessing solid agency. Anaswara Rajan doesn’t have much to do in the film, as the focus remains on Vinu and Anand, but her performance is adequate.
The two songs, composed by Ankit Menon, act as a speed breaker in an already crisp movie. ‘Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil’ is a passable entertainer that has several moments that will have you laughing along with some shortcomings.