The recent Malayalam film ‘Sarvam Maya’ has taken the industry by storm, marking a significant comeback for actor Nivin Pauly after nearly a decade. The film, which successfully blends horror and comedy, was made on a budget of ₹30 crores and has since grossed an impressive ₹150 crores. Now available for streaming on Hotstar, it is also accessible to Telugu audiences. So, what’s the film like? Let’s delve into the review.
The story follows Prabhendu, played by Nivin Pauly, a Brahmin youth who is skeptical about the existence of God and does not follow in his family’s footsteps of priesthood. Instead, his ambition is to become a successful guitarist, and he spends his time performing at stage shows. However, circumstances lead him back to his hometown, where he finds himself performing rituals with his uncle, Rupesh (Aju Varghese), to earn some money. During one of these rituals, he encounters a child possessed by a spirit, which leads to the introduction of a female ghost named Delulu, portrayed by Riya Shibu. Delulu becomes attached to Prabhendu, haunting him in a humorous yet endearing manner.
The film is characterized by its light-hearted approach to the horror genre, flipping the typical narrative where humans fear ghosts. Instead, in ‘Sarvam Maya’, the ghost is the one who fears humans and has no memory of her past, adding a unique twist to the storyline. As Prabhendu grapples with his own fears, the development of their relationship forms the crux of the plot, exploring themes of love, trust, and self-discovery.
Despite being labeled a horror-comedy, the film doesn’t rely on jump scares or frightening scenes. Instead, it invites viewers to fall in love with the character of Delulu, whose journey alongside Prabhendu is filled with warmth and humor. The film’s dialogue and scenes resonate with audiences, making it a feel-good watch. The pacing is brisk in the first half, while the second half meanders at times, but the interactions between Delulu and Prabhendu remain charming and delightful throughout.
The climax offers an unexpected take on the ghost’s backstory, deviating from the typical formula, yet it leaves viewers questioning the simplicity with which certain themes are resolved. The film culminates in a love triangle involving Prabhendu, Delulu, and a girl named Saadhya, which adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. The ending poses the question of whether Delulu harbored real feelings for Prabhendu, leaving the audience with something to ponder.
Nivin Pauly delivers a commendable performance as Prabhendu, while Riya Shibu shines as Delulu, quickly becoming a favorite among viewers with her captivating portrayal. The supporting cast also brings their characters to life, ensuring that no role feels superfluous to the story. Additionally, the film incorporates a pet dog into the plot, adding further charm to the narrative.
On the technical front, while the Telugu dubbing is well-executed, the lyrics for the songs may not resonate perfectly with the audience. The background score complements the film well, and the cinematography beautifully captures the scenic beauty of Kerala, enhancing the film’s aesthetic appeal.
If you’re hesitant to watch horror films due to fear, ‘Sarvam Maya’ is a perfect choice as it promises an enjoyable experience without inducing terror. As you watch, you might find yourself wondering why such captivating spirits don’t appear in your own life. If you’re looking for a delightful movie to watch this weekend, ‘Sarvam Maya’ is an excellent option that can be enjoyed with family.
