Malayalam Cinema keeps winning big this year, and Fahad Fasil’s portrayal of Ranga is the newest addition, ‘Aavesham’ a film that challenges traditional notions of masculinity and heroism. Discover how Ranga’s character offers a refreshing perspective on strength, vulnerability, and the complexities of human relationships.
The narrative unfolds in a seemingly typical “student” film fashion, where three friends from Kerala—Aju (Hipzster, played by Pranav Raj), Bibi (Mithun Jai Shankar), and Shanthan (Roshan Shahnavaz)—relocate to Bangalore for college. Encountering the usual senior-junior conflicts, they seek out a tough figure to set their seniors straight. Their search leads them to RANGA, whom they meet by chance in a bar restroom.
Ranga, a figure of understated masculine strength who avoids physical confrontations and weapons, commands both fear and love from his gang members, who are fiercely loyal to him. His closest ally, Ambaan (portrayed by Sajin Gopu), recounts Ranga’s rise to power. Among the gang, which includes the silent but deadly driver Nanjappa and over fifty others & no less than a Ninja, Ranga stands out as the most cherished, despite his volatile nature.
As Aju, Bibi, and Shanthan get to know Ranga and his crew, their college experience becomes more thrilling than anticipated. The film’s scope is confined to their freshman year, hinting at possible sequels. This year brings a radical transformation in their lives, driven by Ranga’s unpredictable temper, moving them from a hostel to a bar, and eventually to a secluded mansion. Through Ambaan’s narration, we learn of Ranga’s complex relationships with his family and mentor, Reddy (played by Mansoor Ali Khan), and the profound impact of a vow to his late mother, which has since prevented him from resorting to violence.
Ranga’s genuine care for the trio redefines traditional heroism. Fahad Fasil infuses vulnerability into Ranga, making him relatable as he shares his life with the boys, despite receiving no social media validation. His generosity stems from a deep yearning for familial love, poignantly depicted in his interactions with Bibi’s mother. Even when the boys distance themselves after witnessing Ranga’s harsh treatment of deserters, his actions underscore his unwavering commitment to his gang, who are his friends, family, and brothers.
Aavesham transcends genres, offering a rich tapestry of life experiences that resonate with viewers’ own memories of college, camaraderie, and the complexities of human relationships. Fahadh Fasil and the entire cast have delivered what may be hailed as the most remarkable film of 2024, and possibly the decade. The story is not just about Ranga’s heroic journey but also frames him as a superhero with a tragic past, a rise to prominence, a climactic fall, and an eventual resurgence, complete with a symbolic costume change.
This cinematic masterpiece is a must-see. Whether in theaters or on Amazon Prime, Aavesham promises an immersive experience that captivates from start to finish, making every second count and keeping viewers engaged every step of the way.
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