Aditya N
Aditya N
Though Mohanlal’s Aaraattu was a big failure at the box office, few audiences liked the countless references of other Malayalam films. However, regarding the number of film references used, director Vipin Das’ Guruvayoorambala Nadayil, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Basil Joseph, takes the lead now. This comedy entertainer takes place during a wedding and is filled with references from numerous popular movies. These references ensure that the audience continues to laugh throughout the film. Guruvayoorambala Nadayil was released in theaters on May 16, 2024. Even though the film has already achieved remarkable success at the box office, getting on the top charts, let’s delve into the clever and evident references incorporated by the filmmakers to ensure an enjoyable experience. [Warning: This article may contain spoilers].
The film’s references not only provide further clarity on the connections between the different characters but also add depth to their relationships. The selection of Jagadish and Rekha to portray the parents of Prithviraj and Anaswara Rajan’s characters was a strategic move that piqued significant interest from the viewers even before the movie was released. The film’s exploration of a tumultuous relationship between Rekha’s character and her brothers, particularly during their wedding and afterward, is bound to evoke memories of the duo’s 1992 film Grihapravesham. This earlier movie, set in the Guruvayoor temple, shares the same setting as the current film, adding a layer of familiarity for the audience.
Prithviraj’s character Anandan takes Vinu’s advice to reconcile with his in-laws, and he utters a line that had the audience bursting into laughter. Interestingly, this line resembles what Mohanlal’s Georgekutty from Drishyam says when attempting to clarify his predicament. The comical effect is further enhanced by Anandan’s trademark shoulder tilt while delivering the line. Apart from films, a viral video on social media was also used in the movie as a reference. From a technical standpoint, this does not qualify as a cinematic allusion, making it difficult for the majority of individuals to comprehend. Interestingly, Prithviraj himself admitted to being unaware of the significance when he initially read it in the script, until director Vipin provided an explanation. The particular scene involves Prithviraj gesturing towards the individuals gathered outside a tea shop, extending an invitation to everyone for his sister’s wedding. This gesture directly references a widely circulated video featuring a middle-aged woman inviting her neighbors to her daughter’s wedding.
The film’s music plays a crucial role in conveying the depth of the bond shared by the characters. Even after spending countless hours conversing over the phone, Anandan and Vinu’s first meeting is accompanied by the melodious tune of Kannam Thumbi Poraamo. This musical interlude effectively conveys to the viewers the depth of the bond shared by the duo. While the film does not delve into the reasons behind Anandan and Vinu’s affection for each other, the song, which beautifully encapsulates the sibling relationship in Kakkothikkavile Appooppan Thaadikal, provides the audience with a glimpse of their connection.
The Guruvayoor Temple serves as the setting for the movie, similar to Prithviraj’s first film, Nandanam. Including unexpected cameos and dialogues adds a delightful touch to this anticipated reference. Furthermore, the filmmakers cleverly utilize the song Azhagiya Laila from the Karthik and Rambha movie to “define” a specific character. Each time the track is played, it leaves a lasting impact, particularly when the characters encounter one another and initiate the plot twist.
