The recent Malayalam film “Sarvam Maya” has taken the industry by storm, marking a sensational comeback for actor Naveen Pauly after nearly a decade. This horror-comedy, produced with a budget of ₹30 crores, has impressively grossed ₹150 crores at the box office. Now available for streaming on Hotstar, the film is also accessible in Telugu. So, how does it fare? Let’s delve into the review.
The story centers around Prabhendu, played by Naveen Pauly, a Brahmin youth who does not believe in God and has no interest in continuing the family tradition of priesthood. His aspiration is to become a skilled guitarist, leading him to perform on stage. Due to unforeseen circumstances, he returns to his hometown. To make ends meet, he participates in rituals and homas with his uncle Rubesh, portrayed by Aju Varghese. During one such ritual, he encounters a ghost that has possessed a child, which leads to a series of events where the ghost, named Delulu, starts haunting him. Unlike typical horror films, here the ghost is more frightened of humans than the other way around. The plot thickens as Prabhendu learns more about Delulu, who has lost all memory of her past, including how she died.
What sets “Sarvam Maya” apart is its unique blend of horror and comedy. While many horror films rely on jump scares, this film opts for a more lighthearted approach, showcasing the budding relationship between Prabhendu and Delulu. The dialogues and scenes exploring themes of love, relationships, and trust resonate with audiences on a deeper level. The film maintains a light and enjoyable tone throughout, particularly in its first half, while the second half tends to drag at times. However, every scene featuring Delulu is depicted in a cute and sweet manner, making them delightful to watch. The climax, featuring a flashback of the ghost, offers a refreshing take on the usual narrative but leaves viewers questioning the simplicity of its resolution.
As the story unfolds, we see Delulu, the ghost, falling in love with Prabhendu, who simultaneously develops feelings for a girl named Saadhya. This love triangle creates tension between the characters, especially when Delulu begins to regain memories of her past. The film ends with an intriguing question about whether Delulu truly loved Prabhendu in real life, leaving audiences pondering long after the credits roll.
Naveen Pauly shines in his role as Prabhendu, delivering a settled performance that captivates viewers. Riya Shibu, as Delulu, steals the show with her adorable acting, quickly becoming a favorite among the audience. The supporting cast ably complements the main characters, ensuring that no role feels superfluous. Even the inclusion of a dog adds charm to the storyline.
On the technical front, the Telugu dubbing is commendable, though the lyrics for the songs do not quite hit the mark. The background score aligns well with the film’s mood, enhancing the overall experience. The cinematography beautifully captures the picturesque landscapes of Kerala, adding to the film’s visual appeal.
If you are hesitant about watching horror films due to fear, “Sarvam Maya” is a perfect choice as it offers a largely fear-free experience. It might even leave you questioning why such a beautiful ghost was never part of your life. For a delightful weekend movie option, “Sarvam Maya” stands out as a fantastic family-friendly film that everyone can enjoy.
